Dear MRC Network, We have reached a new milestone. With the approval of two new units this morning, the MRC network now has 1,000 units! These units are in all 50 states and most territories, have over 205,000 volunteers, and serve jurisdictions covering over 91% of the U.S. population and more than 73% of the U.S. land area. Through times of change and strain, we are continuing to see growth and endurance in the MRC network. As we evolve, adapt, and expand – locally and nationally – it is important to reflect on our achievements. This milestone marker is one of particular and personal importance to me. Our former U.S. Surgeon General, Dr. Richard Carmona, brought me on board as Director of the MRC in late 2003. At that time, the MRC was a demonstration project consisting of the original 42 units (with an incoming second round of 124 units). My marching orders were to take the MRC from that small demonstration project and develop it into a nationwide program. During one of our first conversations about the Medical Reserve Corps, Dr. Carmona asked if I could imagine ever hitting the 1,000 unit mark. It was an aspiration and target I considered lofty, but ultimately attainable, and I have kept that number in the back of my mind as a personal goal. We have had more than 1,175 units in existence over the years, but due to consolidations, regionalization and deregistrations, we have never had 1,000 active units in the network at one time. Now that we have reached that mark, I am thrilled – not just by the number, but by the strength of the MRC network. Because that strength is really what the MRC is about. The numbers will change – maybe up, maybe down – but our common vision now is to ensure that we remain a sustainable network of active MRC units that conduct and support activities in communities to strengthen public health, reduce vulnerability, build resilience, prepare for disaster, and respond to emergencies when necessary. The MRC network is strong! The MRC is important to those it supports, and communities across our nation believe in the value of the service, assistance and guidance provided by the MRC. They can endorse the mission, activities, initiatives, and professional expertise of the leaders and volunteers. Thank you for the role you play in the MRC network. You are dedicated volunteers. You are capable leaders. You are supportive housing organizations. You are informed partners and stakeholders. What each of you does adds to the powerful impact of the MRC network on the health and resilience of the United States. Your hearts are generous, and I am thankful for the gifts of time and talent you share with your families, neighbors, colleagues, and communities. The MRC is what it is today because of your efforts and commitment. Remember not only to set goals, but create the paths to achieve them. Reassess those goals as you grow and look for new ways to support the needs of your communities. And stop once in a while to celebrate your achievements. While you may not do the work for the pats on the back, it does feel good to know that the effort you put in is worthwhile, and that it benefits those around you. For me, the MRC is an amazing success story, and hitting the 1,000 unit mark is just icing on the cake. Please join me in enjoying a slice! Cheers, Rob CAPT Rob Tosatto Director, Division of the Civilian Volunteer Medical Reserve Corps Phone/Fax: 240-453-8218 [email protected] medicalreservecorps.gov
Posted on: Fri, 05 Sep 2014 15:26:28 +0000
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