Volunteer Management Support Team
Immediately after disaster strikes, it is very common for people to “want to jump in and help”. We all share a responsibility to want to help those in need, especially when a crisis hits near home. We refer to these people as spontaneous volunteers. Unfortunately, most of these volunteers are not trained and have no idea what they might be in for often putting themselves in harm’s way. Also, not everyone who volunteers to help has the best of intentions. Realizing that people are in a state of shock and may have their guard down, predatory practices will creep into the mix.
The best solution to these issues is to screen all potential spontaneous volunteers. Not only will this help prevent injury and illicit practices, but it allows the responders to use volunteers where they are needed and can help the most. The Village of Palatine Volunteer Management Support Team (VMST) is responsible for supporting the local Emergency Management Agency (EMA) spontaneous volunteer screening & placement process. The team is requested through the Palatine Emergency Operating Center (EOC) and is deployed as a municipal asset through the Palatine Emergency Management Agency.
Responsibilities
1. When requested to support local spontaneous volunteer operations, provide knowledge, resources and staff for the Palatine Emergency Management Agency.
2. Establish Volunteer Registration Center at designated facility.
3. Provide for screening and appropriate placement of spontaneous volunteers
4. Provide for tracking of volunteer time and records to provide to the Palatine Emergency Management Agency.
5. As available, provide information to the public/spontaneous volunteers on relief efforts in the affected jurisdiction.
6. Effectively communicate job expectations, physical ability limitations and safety awareness information to spontaneous volunteers.
7. Potential to serve in the local EOC to liaison with other community organizations and communicate the need for volunteer support to the VMST.
Requirements
1. Current affiliation with Palatine Emergency Management Agency/Community Emergency Response Team.
2. Ability to stay in the Volunteer Management Center for a minimum of 4 hours.
3. Ability to live within a disaster area including hardships and loss of infrastructure,
4. Ability to travel to attend required meetings and training,
5. Must have an automobile and state required minimum insurance,
6. Must have a mobile telephone and email account.
Physical Requirements:
All team members will meet the minimum physical requirements listed below:
1. Able to sit for 2 – 4 hours
2. Able to stand for 2 – 4 hours
3. Able to lift 25 pounds
4. Able to communicate verbally/use telephone and radio equipment
5. Able to type and/or write for 2 – 4 hours
