The Society’s risk management arm has advised the Society to require ALL volunteers to complete a Volunteer Consent Form. Based on the information received during our meeting on May 21st, the requirement extends to any volunteer who volunteers for ANY assistance with the Multiple Sclerosis Society, not just amateur radio operators. You can click on the form name above to see the form.

While the local branch views our participation as extremely valuable and vital to the safety of the riders, their hands are tied by the national requirement. They, like the amateur participants in the meeting realize that some amateurs may decide NOT to participate simply because of the form.

This is one of the largest public service events we do and is a showcase for our abilities. Indeed, our presence has in several cases helped get emergency medical assistance to injured riders. It is unfortunate that such requirements are becoming a necessity in many volunteer efforts.

NARC President, Woody, K3YV; Treasurer, Elaine, K3ERP; Centre County EC, Carmine, K3CWP; and Blair County EC, Drew, KA3EJF discussed this at some length after the meeting. While we don’t think the form is really necessary and we note that we do want to provide the service, there isn’t any real way around the requirement. It is the MS Society’s requirement.

As Centre County EC I plan to participate and Elaine and I will complete the forms. The forms will be available at the June 11 ARES meeting and I can try to answer further questions there. Please consider participating in the event and completing the form as required by MS.

Thank you for your interest and participation. You can also contact me at K3CWP@ARRL.NET.

Carmine Prestia, K3CWP
Centre County ARRL EC