For the City Times
Submitted by Angela Loucks Volunteer Center Director

WISCONSIN RAPIDS – On Tuesday, March 6 and Thursday March 8 our community came one step closer to being prepared in the event of a disaster.

United Way of Inner Wisconsin’s Volunteer Center held a Disaster Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) training to educate the community and recruit new members.  The training was held at the Rudolph Town Hall.

During a disaster, volunteers come from all over to help in what is called “spontaneous unaffiliated volunteers.”  While their efforts and skills are greatly appreciated, it can put a strain on local authorities if they are not processed in an orderly fashion.  That is where the Disaster VRC comes in.

If a disaster strikes in south Wood County, spontaneous unaffiliated volunteers will be sent to the VRC to fill out applications, get matched to a disaster volunteer opportunity, get screened (if needed), get trained, get a wristband and directions to the disaster site.  The process is organized and reduces liability issues.

On day one of the training, community members learned about what a VRC does, and why it is important.  On day two, participants learned first-hand what it’s like to staff a VRC.

The Volunteer Center would like to thank the following for making this training possible:

• Subway (Wal-Mart) and Domino’s for being meal sponsors
• Rudolph Town Hall for hosting the event
• Wood County Emergency Management for their support and assistance