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Volunteer Reception Centers (VRC) are the most widely used method for coordinating and managing untrained, spontaneous volunteers who arrive in the aftermath of disaster. A VRC can prevent spontaneous volunteers from overwhelming emergency management and slowing relief efforts.

This presentation by the Bedford (VA) Community Health Foundation (BCHF) can be used as a tool to educate community stakeholders on the importance of including a VRC in disaster planning and the basics of preparing for and using a VRC. The presentation also provides many useful features such as a VRC floor plan, instructions for interviewing spontaneous volunteers and lessons learned from a community who has been through disaster.

Talking points for presenters are also available in a separate document.

BCHF Disaster Management & Volunteer Reception Centers Presentation (PDF)

BCHF Disaster Management & Volunteer Reception Centers – Talking Points (PDF)

*Presentation and notes provided by Denny Huff, Executive Director, Bedford Community Health Foundation (BCHF).