Volunteer Management Program

Volunteer reception center operations GuiDE
This guide is intended to provide guidelines and procedures for the processing of spontaneous unaffiliated volunteers (SUVs) in support of state disaster operations.

• Volunteer Reception Center Operations Guide (pdf)

Disasters and emergencies often lead to vastly increased work-loads that go beyond the capabilities of response agencies. In order to mount effective response efforts, agencies at all levels often rely on volunteers to augment staff. The management of large numbers of volunteers that are not currently affiliated with volunteer disaster response and recovery organizations becomes critical to the success of state emergency management.

According to Arizona Revised Statute, Title 26 - Military Affairs and Emergency Management, Chapter 2, Article 1, section 26-314, paragraph E: The division shall adopt rules prescribing the procedures for registration of emergency workers.

The guide was produced through the combined effort of the Volunteer Center of Southern Arizona (VCSOAZ), Hands On Greater Phoenix (formerly Make A Difference) and the Arizona Division of Emergency Management (ADEM).

The guide is designed to give jurisdictions a base format with which they can develop a jurisdiction specific volunteer worker program. It provides information that will assist in developing and staffing a volunteer reception center (VRC). The VRC should be the focal point for jurisdictions efforts to capture the full potential of spontaneous volunteer workers as a vital resource to be used in emergencies and disasters. The state emergency management agency will follow the same guide in establishing volunteer registration processes at the state level.

The guide will assist jurisdictions in defining position descriptions, optimal VRC layout, signage, safety briefings, volunteer instructions and a comprehensive registration form. Additionally, information on the state spontaneous volunteer management plan and FEMA public assistance information is provided.   

ADEM recommends that all citizens desiring to volunteer during emergencies and disasters register and affiliate with an established volunteer organization. The best place to start a search of potential volunteer options is at Arizona 2-1-1 Online, www.az211.gov.

CONTACT
For additional information on any of these programs, contact us for assistance.