Rockland County Seeks Volunteers For New Medical Reserve Corps

ROCKLAND COUNTY, NY — There is a new chance to help our community in a big way.

Rockland County is seeking residents to join a new Medical Reserve Corps, a volunteer group the county says will help support emergency response and public health efforts.

The Rockland County Department of Health announced the launch of the Rockland County Medical Reserve Corps, or RCMRC, in New City and said it is looking for both medical and non-medical volunteers.

According to the department, the Medical Reserve Corps brings community-minded residents together to help prepare for emergencies and support public health in Rockland County. The county said RCMRC volunteers may assist with shelter operations, emergency logistics, community outreach and other critical roles during disasters and public health emergencies. The department also said volunteers could help during adverse public health events, community clinics and health screenings.

"Rockland County has a long tradition of neighbors helping neighbors. The Medical Reserve Corps gives residents another meaningful way to serve their community, strengthen emergency preparedness, and help protect public health," said County Executive Ed Day. "I encourage anyone interested in making a difference to consider volunteering."

The county said the corps is open to medical and health professionals, including doctors, nurses, EMTs and pharmacists, along with public health workers, retirees and students age 18 and older. It also said residents do not need medical experience to participate.

"The Medical Reserve Corps will help Rockland County better respond to emergencies and to further protect the health of our residents," said Dr. Mary Leahy, Rockland County Commissioner of Health. "We are building a team of trained volunteers who are ready to help when needed most."

The county said the effort is both a local service opportunity and part of a broader network. In its announcement, the department said volunteers can learn skills to help fellow Rocklanders in emergencies and disasters, gain hands-on experience in the community, and become part of a national volunteer network.

"We need volunteers to make sure we are ready for future challenges," said Eric Medina and Catherine Baade from the Rockland County Department of Health's Emergency Preparedness Team. "The Medical Reserve Corps will help us respond to today’s emergencies and prepare for tomorrow."

Residents interested in joining are asked to visit the RCMRC webpage and complete an interest survey. According to the department, a member of the Rockland County Department of Health Emergency Preparedness Team will contact applicants.