Disaster Recovery Volunteers Encouraged to Register in SERVGA

Volunteers from all backgrounds and skill levels make the difference during a disaster

During disaster recovery efforts volunteers provide crucial assistance that allows first responders to focus on the most fragile members of our society. The most effective way to become a volunteer is by registering with a statewide program such as the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) or the Georgia Nurse Alert system through SERVGA (pronounced serve Georgia.)

Volunteers of all skill levels and backgrounds are needed during emergency response. Whether you are a licensed or certified health care provider, an administrative specialist, a retired professional or just an individual willing to help during a disaster, the Georgia Division of Public Health invites you to register in SERVGA .

The Cobb County Medical Reserve Corps is managed through Cobb County Emergency Management Agency and can be reached at (770) 499-4567.

“Register with Serve Georgia to save lives. A registry of volunteers allows us to contact volunteers and match the best person to the specific assistance needed,” said Sandra Elizabeth Ford, M.D., M.B.A., F.A.A.P., Acting Director of the Georgia Division of Public Health.

SERVGA is Georgia’s State Emergency Registry of Volunteers; it is administered by the Georgia Department of Human Resources, Division of Public Health, Office of Preparedness.

The SERVGA online registration form allows volunteers to include their licenses and certifications, language skills, and types of jobs or tasks they can contribute to disaster recovery efforts.

“SERVGA puts skills exactly where they are needed and provides an opportunity for people who want to make a difference in communities to do just that during a disaster, said Jack Kennedy, M.D., District Health Director, Cobb & Douglas Public Health.

SERVGA integrates local, regional, statewide volunteers programs to assist emergency response and public safety organizations during a disaster. It is part of a national initiative to coordinate and mobilize volunteers to respond to all types of emergencies.

Individuals wishing to volunteer who are members of or have received training through the Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) should directly contact their local MRC coordinator. People who are American Red Cross (ARC) certified should contact their local ARC chapter.