A Michigan Volunteer Database Initiative

The Michigan Department of Community Health, Office of Public Health Preparedness and the Bureau of Epidemiology, in collaboration with the Department of Information Technology, have sponsored development of an Internet-based volunteer registry system that conforms to the Office of the Assistant Secretary for Preparedness and Response (ASPR) Emergency System for Advanced Registration of Volunteer Health Professionals (ESAR-VHP) national standards and definitions.  The volunteer registry system is intended to be part of a national structure in the sense that states will build systems to national standards and definitions, which can be shared and utilized across state lines.  The Michigan initiative is referred to as "MI Volunteer Registry."

MI Volunteer Registry is designed for volunteers with all skill levels and experiences.  Initial recruitment and registry will focus on physicians, nurses, behavioral health professionals and ancillary professionals. Operators of retail food establishments, food processing plants, food distribution firms, as well as food industry association officials and regulatory officials will also benefit.  In addition, other persons are encouraged to register as well.

The purpose of this system is to provide a secure, electronic environment for volunteers to indicate their volunteer interests and contact information.  In the event of an accidental, natural or intentional public health emergency, or other public or health care disaster, the registry functions as the central location for volunteer information.  The information can be queried and appropriate volunteers contacted by e-mail or text pager (if appropriate). 

The registry will also be a place where health volunteers and the food industry can access important topical information regarding specific events, exercises and drills, or general knowledge and training.

To learn more about the MI Volunteer Registry, please click:   

MI Volunteer Registry Brochure  (PDF File)

MI Volunteer Registry Poster  (PDF File)

MI Volunteer Registry Stuffer  (PDF File)