Greetings MRC Network,

As we approach the end of 2024, I want to take a moment to reflect on and celebrate the extraordinary contributions of the nearly 300,000 Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) volunteers across the nation. These dedicated individuals, organized locally in communities large and small, work tirelessly to improve the health, safety, and resilience of the people they serve. Your unwavering commitment—whether it’s keeping family, friends, neighbors, or complete strangers safe during a crisis—has had an immeasurable impact.

I hope this holiday season finds you in good health, surrounded by loved ones, and enjoying a well-deserved break. As I reflect on this year, I am filled with gratitude and pride for what we have accomplished together. 2024 has been a year of growth, achievement, and resilience for the Office of Medical Reserve Corps (OMRC), and it is because of the exceptional work of you, the volunteers. Your passion and dedication have been the driving force behind every milestone reached.

Highlights from the Year

One of the highlights for OMRC this year was the return of the 2024 MRC Recognition Awards—our first in-person event in over a decade. It was an inspiring and emotional experience to recognize the accomplishments of all the nominees and the award winners, but also to honor every MRC volunteer who is on the front lines, making a difference every day.

Additionally, we were thrilled to welcome Commander Samantha Spindel, Ph.D., as the OMRC Deputy Director. Commander Spindel brought a fresh energy to the office and played a pivotal role in our strategic planning sessions. Through these sessions, we established four new priorities that will shape the future of the MRC for years to come, positioning it as the premier volunteer organization for emergency preparedness and response.

Incredible Volunteer Contributions

This year, MRC volunteers across the country made an incredible impact in their communities. Here are just a few highlights that showcase the diverse ways MRC units have been improving health and safety:

• Hurricanes Helene and Milton Response: MRC units in Florida, Georgia, Tennessee, North and South Carolina, and Virginia showed extraordinary resilience in responding to back-to-back hurricanes. Their efforts were instrumental in providing immediate care and supporting their communities during one of the busiest storm seasons on record.
• Eastern Shore MRC (VA): This unit partnered with NASA’s Wallops Flight Facility to deliver Stop the Bleed training to 70 staff members. This hands-on training underscores the power of collaboration between MRCs and government partners in enhancing emergency preparedness.
• Marin MRC (CA): In a remarkable effort to enhance equity, the Marin MRC expanded its Lifesaving Skills Training program to incarcerated residents at San Quentin Rehabilitation Center. Over 250 participants received training in hands-only CPR, AED use, and naloxone (Narcan) administration. This initiative, offered in both Spanish and American Sign Language (ASL), highlights the MRC’s commitment to underserved populations and improving community health.
• Big Island MRC (HI): In the spirit of the season, the Big Island MRC joined forces with Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, Hilo Target, and other community partners to bring joy to 50 teens and children in need during the fourth annual “Heroes and Helpers” event. This heartwarming collaboration paired children with first responders for a holiday shopping spree and gift wrapping, fostering a sense of community and support.

Recognizing Outstanding Individuals

On an individual note, I would like to spotlight Cyndralynn Meredith, a volunteer with the Southeast Nebraska MRC. This year, Governor Jim Pillen honored Cyndralynn with the Disaster Volunteer Award at the 2024 Step Forward Awards for Volunteerism. A junior at Crete High School, Cyndralynn has already shown exceptional leadership and a deep commitment to helping others. She is a shining example of the future of the MRC and will undoubtedly continue to inspire others as she pursues a career in healthcare.

Cyndralynn’s involvement with the American Red Cross and the MRC, especially after our newly signed Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with the Red Cross, exemplifies the power of cross-agency collaboration. She is truly a volunteer leader in the making, and we look forward to supporting her journey in the years to come.

Looking Ahead

As we wrap up 2024 and look forward to 2025, I want to thank every one of you for the remarkable work you’ve done to keep your communities safe and healthy. The collective efforts of the MRC network are truly inspiring, and I am excited for the future of our organization as we continue to grow, adapt, and innovate in response to public health challenges.

As we move into the new year, I encourage you to reflect on the tremendous work we’ve done together and the impact we’ve had on public health and emergency preparedness. This is only a brief overview of some of the many activities that have taken place across the country, and I am proud of all that we have accomplished.

I also want to remind you that nominations for the MRC Recognition Awards will open in January, following the January 7 Recognizing Your Rockstars: Nominating Volunteers for Awards webinar on how to submit a successful nomination. This is an excellent opportunity to recognize the outstanding work of your volunteers and your MRC unit.

In closing, I want to extend my heartfelt gratitude to all of you for your dedication, resilience, and compassion. Your work is truly invaluable, and I look forward to accomplishing even more together in the year ahead.

Wishing you and your loved ones a safe, healthy, and happy holiday season! Here’s to achieving great things together in 2025!

Warm regards,
Dustun Ashton

Office of Medical Reserve Corps (OMRC)

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