Marion County Health Department is a non-profit county agency whose mission is to protect the health of the citizens of Marion County. In our mission to protect the public’s health; we are looking for volunteers.
Marion County Health Department is looking for volunteers to help specifically in the event of an emergency. We are looking for non-first responders and individuals who are not already obligated as an emergency volunteer with another entity. For Marion County Health Department, the utilization of volunteers is essential in preserving public health during an emergency. Volunteers will not be asked to assume hazardous responsibilities, but will be utilized to provide manpower or knowledge.
Potential volunteers can include, but are not limited to:
- Information Technology Specialists
- Communications
- Retired Nurses
- Veterinarians
- School Teachers
- Retired Physicians
- Secretaries
- Students
- Dentist
- General Public
ALL VOLUNTEERS ARE BENEFICIAL and will be put to good use. If you are interested in volunteer opportunity at Marion County Health Department, please read and Complete the Volunteer Form online.
FAQs
Why does the Health Department need clinic volunteers?
The Health Department has well-trained staff who plan and set up emergency clinics, but help is needed from volunteers to fully staff the clinics so the public can quickly get the medication they need. The role of volunteers is vital to ensure efficient and organized distribution of medication in a time of crisis.
How much time will it take to be a volunteer?
We understand that volunteers are busy and may be able to devote only a limited amount of time to training and participation in preparedness exercises or drills.
Volunteers choose the level to which they want to be involved. We recommend that all volunteers participate in an annual training. After completion, volunteers may choose to participate in further trainings and take on additional roles in the program. It’s entirely up to you.
I go away for the winter, can I still volunteer?
Yes. When you register, please tell us if there are times you will not be available. We will record this information and only call on you for when you are available.
How will I know when and where to go during the emergency?
In an emergency, we will notify you as to where and when you should report as a volunteer.
For your safety, it is important for you to wait for us to contact you and not to “show up” at a clinic site. The volunteer program should always have up-to-date contact information so that we know how to reach you.
What happens at an emergency clinic?
Medication at emergency clinics are distributed to prevent people from getting sick. Vaccinations and oral medicines (antibiotics) are provided during an emergency. A health care professional will review medication history for potential reactions, and clinic staff will provide support through a wide variety of duties.
What will be done to protect me and my family?
Your safety is our top priority. As volunteers, you and your family will be given medications to protect you from possible harm before you begin your volunteer duties. We will also provide you with any necessary personal protective equipment, such as gloves or masks.
I am currently a licensed health care provider. Will I perform medical duties during the clinic?
Maybe, and only if you decide that’s what you want to do. Clinically trained volunteers are among the state’s most valuable resources in a crisis. The Health Department will review the credentials of all licensed health care providers. After you are properly credentialed, you can perform medical duties at a clinic (screenings, distributing medications, reconstituting suspensions, etc.). Medical staff will be provided with the necessary training and equipment.
How do I make changes to my contact information?
You can update your contact information by email, Bill Thouvenin-MRC Coordinator at bthouvenin@marionco.illinois.gov, or change your information on the Volunteer Form.
What kind of training will I receive as a volunteer?
Volunteers will have annual orientation and training, which will include:
- Organizational Structure
- Command Structure
- Job Descriptions
- Code of Ethics
- Confidential Policy
- Personal Protective Equipment
The following courses will support your experience working with the Marion County Health Department: IS-100, IS-200 and IS-700.
FEMA – Access online courses and certifications