G0489 Management of Spontaneous Volunteers

This course aims to introduce the keys to success in managing large numbers of spontaneous volunteers in disasters. Its underlying assumption is that much of the volunteer help is indeed needed, and that with basic emergency management coordination skills, the volunteer resources can often be put to effective use, making a positive difference in the affected community. The course will discuss the benefits spontaneous volunteers can bring to relief efforts and the challenges they may bring if not coordinated effectively. In addition, the course will examine planning considerations regarding spontaneous volunteers. Special emphasis is also placed on how to make full use of a Volunteer Reception Center the backbone of any well-organized spontaneous volunteer management program.

• Identify issues and challenges in the management of spontaneous volunteers.
• Identify the elements of a spontaneous Volunteer Management Plan.
• Identify best practices for the management of spontaneous volunteers in disasters.
• Develop and implement a spontaneous Volunteer Management Plan.
• Explain the role of the Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) and virtual VRC in the transition from response to recovery.

All course participants should be familiar with their own state and local government Emergency Operations Plan Annex, if one exists, on the use of spontaneous volunteers and volunteers affiliated with relief organizations.

Recommended: Individuals should have a working knowledge of the Incident Command and National Incident Management Systems (IS0100, Introduction to the Incident Command System, ICS 100; IS0200.b, Incident Command System for Single Resources and Initial Action Incidents; IS0700.a, National Incident Management System, An Introduction; and IS0800.b, National Response Framework, An Introduction).

Target audience:

This course has been developed for Emergency Managers, community, faith-based, and voluntary organizations responsible for the management of spontaneous volunteers.

Course manager:
Paula.towne@ofm.wa.gov
Citizen Corps & CERT Program Coordinator
Serve Washington
360-725-5290 (o)
360-701-0208 (c)