n recognition of National Volunteer Week, the DeKalb County Health Department (DCHD) extends heartfelt appreciation to the incredible volunteers of the DeKalb County Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). Since its official launch in September 2024, the DeKalb County MRC has made a remarkable impact on our community’s health and preparedness in a very short period of time.

Last fall, DCHD received funding to establish the first-ever MRC unit in DeKalb County. The MRC is a national network of trained volunteers—including medical and public health professionals, as well as other community members—who support local health initiatives and emergency response efforts.

Since its formation, the DeKalb County MRC has:

• Participated in six community outreach events
• Attended the Re”MRC”able Training Workshop and two other trainings
• Hosted a successful MRC Meet and Greet
• Coordinated two CPR certification courses
• Delivered five “Stop the Bleed” training sessions
• Presented emergency preparedness information at three separate locations
• Participated in a Health Department emergency preparedness exercise

On Friday, April 11, nine MRC volunteers took part in an emergency preparedness exercise led by DCHD. The event tested the Department’s inventory management capabilities—specifically the reception, sorting, and distribution of emergency supplies. In just one hour, volunteers sorted and packed over 200 emergency preparedness kits, which will be distributed to senior sites across the county.

In partnership with the NIU School of Nursing, some of these kits have since been delivered to local sites, accompanied by presentations to help recipients understand the kit contents and emphasize the importance of being prepared for emergencies.

The success of the DeKalb County MRC would not be possible without the outstanding leadership and coordination of Mary Gawrys, the MRC Volunteer Coordinator. Her dedication has been essential in building and guiding this incredible team of volunteers, which has reached over 30 volunteers!

“We are deeply grateful to all our MRC volunteers for their commitment to public health and their service to our community,” said Lisa Gonzalez, Public Health Administrator.  “Your time, energy, and passion make a difference!”

If you are interested in joining the DeKalb County MRC and making a positive impact in the DeKalb County community, please contact MRC@dekalbcounty.org or sign up directly at IHelp.net, selecting DeKalb County Health Department MRC as your organization.