08-09-2023 Council Packet - Laserfiche WebLink

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Ramsey County │ Annex A: Volunteer and Donations Management 16 3.4.5 TRANSPORTATION The County maintains a fleet of vehicles that may be used to support volunteer and donations management functions, as do the municipalities. Additional vehicles may be obtained through partner organizations or purchased/leased on the private market. 3.4.6 EQUIPMENT The County owns and operates some heavy equipment that could be used in the support of volunteer and donations management functions. However, some types of equipment, including semi-trucks (including freezer and cooler trucks) may have to be obtained through contract. Typically, the County has active contracts in place with companies that offer this type of equipment. Other equipment that may be needed is likely available at warehouses or can be procured on the open market and includes ramps, forklifts, flood lights, conveyor belts, pallet jacks or motorized dollies, tables, and racks. 3.4.7 SECURITY If available, County and municipal law enforcement and reserves may provide security at volunteer and donation facilities. However, in a large event, security may need to be obtained through a contract with a private security firm or through mutual aid. 3.5 Key Operational Activities 3.5.1 PUBLIC INFORMATION An early, effective public information campaign can significantly reduce the burden on the Volunteer and Donations Management function. Public information messages should include the following talking points, as relevant and appropriate: • Volunteers should be informed of needs and expectations, including skills desired, training available, registration and deployment processes including screening and background checks, and opportunities for affiliation with established volunteer organizations. • Volunteers, including those with disabilities and other Access and Functional Needs (DAFN) will be matched to appropriate work based on skill, health, ability, and other factors and reasonable accommodations will be provided. While the County or municipality will provide wrap-around services whenever possible, volunteers should expect to provide their own lodging, meals, and PPE. Every effort will be made to provide volunteers with hydration, breaks, and access to sanitation facilities while on scene. • Donors are encouraged to donate money to participating disaster relief organizations in lieu of goods whenever possible. Financial contributions prevent the need for additional disaster infrastructure and personnel to process donated goods as well as problems associated with unneeded and/or unusable goods. Disaster relief organizations can use funds to purchase any needed goods from local vendors, thus helping to support the disaster-affected local economy. They can also use money to provide vouchers, etc., to victims, allowing victims some choice in the clothes, etc., they buy to replace lost items. • Donors of goods are encouraged to donate to a voluntary agency in their own area rather than transporting their goods to the agencies directly participating in the disaster response. Goods