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SERV-OR Bulletin 📣 April 2025
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Each year at this time, during National Volunteer Appreciation Week, we take this opportunity to recognize and celebrate the volunteers dedicated to public health preparedness and improving the health of Oregonians. During the preceding weeks, we’ve been accepting nominations for the SERV-OR Recognition Awards. Now, in this special issue of the SERV-OR Bulletin, we are thrilled to announce the awardees for their outstanding contributions over the past year. It is an honor to celebrate them and amplify their work.*
 “As a physician and public servant, I’m deeply grateful for the volunteers who serve communities across our entire state—from rural areas to urban centers. Their support reaches people who are often underserved in public health: aging adults, LGBTQ+ individuals, immigrant or seasonal farmworker communities, and communities of color. Your presence and commitment make local, state and Tribal public health emergency response stronger and more equitable. Your engagement reflects the kind of care and connection that truly defines public health.” Dean Sidelinger, M.D., M.S.Ed. - Health Officer, State Epidemiologist - Public Health Division, OHA
*Click the links below to explore the full narratives of each awardee and view the honorable mentions.
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Pictured above: SERV-OR Volunteers (left to right), Libet Streiff, Frances Munkenbeck, Cayetana Gomez de Soler, and Robyn Greenlund.
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Outstanding Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Volunteer - Libet Streiff, NP
Libet Streiff, NP, Clackamas County MRC has been an amazing volunteer, trainer and leader for our local Medical Reserve Corps Unit. Libet always answers the call and has stepped up to help organize meetings and conferences, assist administratively, and has even led emergency preparedness training for older adults in our community. Libet is a steadfast support to all three MRC Unit Coordinators in the Portland/Metro region, and she is also always eager to learn and grow in her own professional development and in her journey with the MRC.
I can't imagine coordinating the Clackamas County MRC Unit without Libet's guidance, her assistance or her... Click here to continue reading.
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Outstanding State Managed Volunteer Pool (SMVP) Volunteer - Dr. Frances Munkenbeck, MD
Not only is Fran an active member of her MRC unit (Lane County), she is also very active as an SMVP volunteer. She participated in Pathfinder 2024 and is a charter member of the SERV-OR Advanced Team. When the Advanced Team pilot program expanded statewide, she recruited another Lane County MRC volunteer to join. Fran has taken numerous trainings throughout the year to stay relevant and informed. She is always willing and ready to offer advice, assistance and share resources in the cause of preparedness. During non-response, she is one of the most active and involved volunteers I’ve encountered during my AmeriCorps service. Click here to read more.
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Outstanding MRC Unit Coordinator - Cayetana Gomez de Soler
Cayetana Gomez de Soler is the MRC Coordinator of Lane County’s dreams. She came into the role with no medical and little volunteer management background and has dedicated herself to being the absolute best and most effective coordinator she can be, which is no small feat for a brand-new MRC launched in the most risk-averse county in the country. Every step to become an active, functioning MRC has been a challenge for our small but mighty team, and Caye is the heart without which none of it would be possible. She creates personal connections with each volunteer, taking the time to meet them and explain in person what joining our MRC entails. She brought to the job the extended social capital and networks she developed as part of the COVID response team, with Lane County’s most underserved populations and the organizations... Click here to continue reading.
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MRC Volunteer Most Hours Served - Robyn Greenlund, 800 hours
In every organization, there are individuals who truly embody its mission, and for our MRC, that person is Robyn. She has consistently stepped up, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to supporting our community. Whether it’s attending events, sharing her extensive knowledge, or stepping in whenever help is needed, Robyn is always there - ready and willing to lend a hand.
Despite balancing numerous responsibilities outside of MRC, she remains a steadfast presence at our activities. Her dedication goes beyond just showing up; she brings expertise, passion, and a can-do attitude that inspires those around her. I know I can always count on Robyn, and our MRC is stronger because of her. We are incredibly grateful for her continued support and commitment to our mission. Click here to continue reading.
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Community Response Award - Lane County Public Health Reserve CorpsÂ
As one of Oregon’s newest MRC units, the Lane County Public Health Reserve Corps has already made a big impact. After a lengthy application process, Lane County was awarded $19 million dollars in Community Change Grant Climate funding from the Environmental Protection Agency. The funds will primarily go towards improving existing buildings to create “community resilience hubs” in six disaster-vulnerable areas across the county. These new hubs, stocked with emergency supplies, will serve as shelter and clean air spaces for community members during extreme heat or smoke events. Lane County is also partnering with United Way to distribute over $1 million in a competitive funding... Click here to continue reading.
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Stuart C Vaughters – In Recognition of an Outstanding AmeriCorps Volunteer
In his time with the SERV-OR program, Stuart Vaughters has made an impact that far exceeds the length of his service. As an AmeriCorps VISTA member, Stuart entered a challenging role with curiosity, humility, and a remarkable drive to learn. From his first day, he approached every task with thoughtfulness and purpose, quickly earning the respect of colleagues and volunteers across Oregon’s public health preparedness network.
Now in his second year, a rare and admirable choice for a VISTA, Stuart has helped shape and grow critical SERV-OR projects. His work reflects quiet confidence, sharp insight, and an unwavering commitment to service. The relationships he's built with volunteers are genuine and lasting, and his presence has left a mark on this program that will not soon be forgotten. Click here to continue reading.
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Mission
The mission of the State Emergency Registry of Volunteers in Oregon (SERV-OR) and Oregon’s Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) network is to ensure health and well-being, educate, and protect all people in Oregon.
We will accomplish this through recruiting, registering, training, exercising, and deploying licensed volunteer health professionals to support public health initiatives, health and medical needs during public health crises, and by improving access to preparedness education and resources for all individuals and communities.
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