Volunteer Requirements

Program Guidelines


Volunteers with the Memphis and Shelby County Public Health Reserve / Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) must be:
  • At least 18 years of age or older
  • Willing to complete the required training
  • Willing to assist in operating clinics or points of distribution for medications in the event of a public health emergency or disaster
Potential volunteers are required to complete either the Physician Volunteer Training Curriculum or the General Volunteer Training Curriculum. These comprehensive training modules provide the necessary training to support the Health Department staff. Participation in drills and exercises provides hands-on training and prepares volunteers for their specific roles in the point of distribution sites.

Volunteer Disclaimer / Restrictions

Volunteers with immunosuppressed systems, such as individuals receiving chemotherapy, recipients of organ or tissue transplants or a spleenectomy, individuals who are HIV / AIDS positive or who have skin conditions (such as eczema or atopic dermatitis), and those who are pregnant (at the time of the emergency), severely allergic (anaphylactic) to latex, are over 65 year old, or have any other physical condition(s) or contact with persons that may contraindicate immunization may not be assigned to work in a clinical setting, but may be used as a volunteer where their health would not be compromised.

There are a number of volunteer tasks that need to be done away from the clinical setting. All other volunteers must be appropriately vaccinated prior to being allowed to work in a clinical setting. All volunteers and their families will be given the opportunity to be immunized against smallpox either before the mass clinics begin or on the first day of the mass vaccination clinics, unless they have contraindications to the vaccine.

All volunteers must complete two hours of training prior to working in an emergency immunization project. Some volunteers may need additional training based on their job assignments. Notice of training schedules will be mailed to volunteers as sessions are scheduled.

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