Ranjana and Navin Ramesh

We started volunteering with the Upper Merrimack Valley Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) in 2019 when we were in 8th and 9th grade because we are passionate about service and health equity. As Gandhi put it, “in a gentle way, you can shake the world.”

As student volunteers we helped the unit raise awareness of domestic violence prevention by supporting the Live for Liv fundraiser, which supporting domestic violence awareness. We also volunteered at vaccine clinics, flu shot drives, and at town fairs with the MRC for public health education, which was a fun way to contribute to the health and well-being of our community.

Our experience in the MRC connected us to FEMA’s National Youth Preparedness Council. We were trained in CPR, psychological first aid, how to administer Narcan, Until Help Arrives, and what to do during an active shooter response.

There are so many connections between different local, state and federal health organizations, and we were able to use those connections to bring trainings to more students at our high school, Central Catholic, and other students across the country. Through our volunteering, we were able to work with our school and the Red Cross to make Stop the Bleed training a permanent part of our school’s health curriculum.

Similarly, we were inspired by the MRC to explore solutions to behavioral health issues for young people and teens We led a psychological first aid Train-the-Trainer seminar for teens by providing a zoom training to nearly 50 students across the country on our best practices reduce stress and promote resilience. We shared information about how they can bring these same resources to their communities. We also created information sheets that the MRC distributed to over 500 people in Maynard.

We wholeheartedly encourage students to join their local MRCs. It’s a great way to learn about the medical field and allows students and teens in their community to make a difference The skills you gain with the MRC can apply to any field and there are many ways to contribute.

We specifically want to thank our mentors Nancy Burns (MRC), Mr. Aaron Levy (FEMA), and Jessica Bowe (DPH/Red Cross). Change starts with each of us, and we’re so grateful to be a part of our MRC.