Austin Public Health’s Medical Reserve Corps Calling on Community for National Volunteer Month

AUSTIN, Texas – In recognition of National Volunteer Month, Austin Public Health is looking for new volunteers to join its Austin-Travis County Medial Reserve Corps. These volunteers play a crucial role in building Austin and Travis County’s resilience to emergencies and disasters.

“The Medical Reserve Corps is an essential part of Austin Public Health’s planning and preparedness for any disasters we face in our community,” said Eleanor Allain, Emergency Plans Officer for Austin Public Health. “These volunteers have had a hand in our response to the nationwide measles outbreak, the July Fourth flooding, the mass shooting on Sixth Street and more. There is always a need for more helping hands.”

The Medical Reserve Corps is a nationwide network of volunteer units composed of local volunteers. Austin-Travis County Medical Reserve Corps volunteers are community members who support public health infrastructure before, during, and after disasters. Volunteers are vetted, complete required training, and receive ongoing training opportunities, equipping them to serve as an integral part of public health emergency response.

Volunteers can come from medical and non-medical backgrounds – the one trait they all share is a passion for serving their community.

Since its inception in 2023, the Austin-Travis County Medical Reserve Corps has supported:

• Health fairs and outreach events: providing education and access to vaccinations.

• July Fourth Flood: recovery resource center.

• 6th Street Mass Casualty Incident: Victim Assistance Center.

• Mpox vaccination clinics.

• Measles vaccination clinics.

The Austin-Travis County Medical Reserve Corps is open to everyone 18 and older. Those interested in volunteering can apply now.

Learn more about the Austin-Travis County Medical Reserve Corps here.