August 31, 2008
ATLANTA (GA) – During disaster recovery efforts volunteers provide crucial assistance that allows first responders to focus on the most fragile members of our society. The most effective way to become a volunteer is by registering with a statewide program such as the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) or the Georgia Nurse Alert system through SERVGA (pronounced serve Georgia.)
Volunteers of all skills levels and backgrounds are needed during emergency response. Whether you are a licensed or certified health care provider, an administrative specialist, a retired professional or just an individual willing to help during a disaster, the Georgia Division of Public Health invites you to register in www.servga.gov.
"Register with Serve Georgia to save lives. A registry of volunteers allows us to contact volunteers and match the best person to the specific assistance needed," said Sandra Elizabeth Ford, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.A.P., Acting Director of the Georgia Division of Public Health.
SERVGA is Georgia's State Emergency Registry of Volunteers; it is administered by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health, Office of Preparedness.
The www.servga.gov online registration form allows volunteers to include their licenses and certifications, language skills, and types of jobs or tasks they can contribute to disaster recovery efforts.
SERVGA integrates local, regional, statewide volunteers programs to assist emergency response and public safety organizations during a disaster. It is part of a national initiative to coordinate and mobilize volunteers to respond to all types of emergencies.
Individuals wishing to volunteer who are members of or have received training through the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) should directly contact their local MRC coordinator. People who are American Red Cross (ARC) certified should contact their local ARC chapter.
To register in SERVGA visit www.servga.gov.
To view a video about www.servga.gov and other Emergency Preparedness messages visit www.YouTube.com/dhrcomm.
For more information on how to prepared for an emergency visit www.ready.ga.gov. More information is available at www.gema.gov and www.fema.gov.
For information, contact:
Belen Moran
(404) 657-3288
bgmoran@dhr.state.ga.us