Officials are encouraged to plan for kindness. The Volunteer and donation management guidebook 2022 provides step-by-step instructions, templates, links, tools, and other useful information to help local jurisdictions develop or update effective volunteer and donation management plans. Contact the HSEM Volunteer Resources Coordinator for training and guidance. 

HSEM local voluntary agency liaison guidebook 

Local officials can obtain information about appointing their Local Voluntary Agency Liaison (Local VAL) to lead their Volunteer and Donation Management efforts during a disaster. The Local Voluntary Agency Liaison Guidebook 2022 provides guidance for selecting and training a Local VAL. The HSEM Volunteer Resources Coordinator can assist with this process. 

MN Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MNVOAD)

MNVOAD is an independent nonprofit umbrella association that coordinates the efforts of many nonprofit voluntary organizations. Your local Emergency Manager should complete and submit the MNVOAD Assistance Request Form as soon as possible after a disaster occurs. This will help your community gain access to many services, supplies, and affiliated trained volunteers. MNVOAD may assist with other activities such as drills, exercises, and events. Visit the MNVOAD link below to learn more about the organization and download guidance documents. 

Long-term recovery group (LTRG)

LTRG focuses on filling the gap for people without adequate insurance. Establishing this group before a disaster has proven to be a best practice, but it can be set up following the event. Minnesota Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (MNVOAD) has written a document for creating and maintaining a Long-Term Recovery Group. 

Whole community preparedness coalition (WCPC)

WCPC is a community-based coalition focused on disaster preparedness, recovery, and resilience.  

Community or service organizations can join: 

• Community clubs or social groups such as Eagles, Elk, Lions, Rotary, etc. 

• For-profit businesses, nonprofits, and employee resource groups (ERG), etc. 

• Local faith-based groups 

• Neighborhood organizations, block clubs, tenants, homeowner associations, etc.  

• School and college campus representatives, alumni groups, etc.  

• Veterans clubs including American Legion, VFW, etc. 

This coalition may be self-managed or guided by the jurisdiction. Members of the coalition could assist the LTRG when needed. MNVOAD can provide advice for starting or revitalizing a local Whole Community Preparedness Coalition group.  

For information on volunteer management or to get a copy of any materials, please email hsem.volunteerresources.dps@state.mn.us.

Thank you for preparing in advance for the kindness of others!