Jacqueline Kelley

Jacqueline Kelley, the Northwest Vermont Medical Reserve Corps (MRC) Unit Coordinator, is a testament to the power of resilience and dedication. Her impactful work in emergency management and with the MRC highlights her commitment to community service, healthcare, and disability advocacy.

Kelley's journey began with a strong academic foundation. "In 2022, I graduated with a master’s degree in Disability Studies and Emergency Management from the University of Leeds in the UK," she shared. This educational background laid the groundwork for her career in emergency management. "Once I finished the program, I looked to start my career in emergency management. A job opened at the Vermont Department of Health as the St. Albans District Office Emergency Preparedness Specialist."

Taking on the role of MRC Unit Coordinator was a natural progression for Kelley, although it came with its challenges. "I never heard of the MRC prior to joining the Health Department. But my colleagues and wonderful MRC volunteers helped me understand the MRC and become a successful coordinator."

Reinvigorating the Northwest Vermont MRC

Kelley has been a Unit Coordinator since September 2022, and her impact has been profound. "When I started, my unit was inactive due to turnover in the coordinator role and the end of the unit’s response to COVID-19," she explained. With determination and collaboration, she revitalized the unit. "I worked with my seasoned volunteers and fiscal agent to re-activate the unit. We received an ASPR-funded NACCHO [National Association of County and City Health Officials] Operational Readiness Award in 2023, which helped us re-engage the community through hot and cold weather campaigns and train volunteers to ensure volunteer readiness."

Under her leadership, the Northwest Vermont MRC has thrived. "Currently, the Northwest Vermont MRC is one of the smallest units in Vermont, but we are highly active in the community," Kelley proudly stated.

 

Overcoming Challenges and Leading by Example

Kelley, as a person with a disability, faces unique challenges in her role. "The biggest challenge I face is setting up and taking down tabling events," she noted. “These tasks require carrying heavy materials.” Despite these physical challenges, she has found ways to participate fully. “In general I can participate in everything MRC. I staff disaster resource centers and multi-agency resource centers. I table at community events. I teach training. I am certified in required hands-on MRC training like CPR and Stop the Bleed. I’ve found ways to do all these things as a manual wheelchair user, often independently and without the need for support.”.

Her ability to adapt and rely on her team is crucial. "When I need help, I lean on those around me," Kelley said, highlighting the importance of teamwork and support systems in overcoming obstacles.

Addressing Critical Issues for People with Disabilities in Emergencies

Kelley's expertise in disability and emergency management provides valuable insights into the challenges faced by people with disabilities during emergencies. "Disabled people are 2-4 times more likely to be injured or die during emergencies and disasters," she emphasized. A significant issue is the lack of inclusive planning. "Often disabled people are not included in emergency planning. It’s great if states are doing DAFN [disability, access, and functional needs] work, but unless they actively involve DAFN populations throughout the entire emergency management cycle, they will continue to be overlooked and forgotten."

The recent flooding in Vermont underscored these challenges. "Vermont experienced significant flooding in July 2023. Many expressed the pitfalls during the flood event. There was no communication on what DAFN populations should do to prepare or recover," Kelley recalled. “Initial communication was in English only, there were many power outages and electricity dependent people didn’t know what to do, people were unable to leave their homes to access essential healthcare and medications, and state communication was often not in plain language.”

Kelley advocates for essential accommodations and strategies to improve emergency response for people with disabilities. "First and foremost, it’s critical that states comply with legal requirements that help to ensure physical spaces and communication are accessible to everyone," she stressed. Flexibility and availability of necessary resources are also vital. "It’s also important to have necessary CMIST [Communication - Maintaining health – Independence - Support, Safety, and Self-determination - Transportation] resources on hand to meet individual needs."

 

Making Volunteering More Inclusive

Kelley believes in the importance of making volunteer opportunities within organizations like the MRC more inclusive. "MRCs can push the message that the MRC is for everyone regardless of medical background and ability," she suggested. It's also crucial to be accommodating and open to hearing individual interests and comfort levels. "There are many roles and responsibilities people with disabilities can do in emergency response and preparedness," Kelley emphasized. "It’s important not to assume someone’s ability. Let them decide what is a what is right for them."

For people with disabilities considering volunteering, Kelley offers encouraging words. "I would tell them to do it! The MRC is such a wonderful program that is open to all." Kelley firmly believes successful volunteerism is not the sole responsibility of the individual. "It is the job of the Unit Coordinator to train volunteers, so they are ready to respond. It is also the job of the Unit Coordinator to provide necessary accommodations to ensure volunteers are successful in their role."

A Vision for the Future

Kelley is optimistic about the future of disability inclusion in emergency management. "I’m excited that disability inclusion is becoming more and more of a concern to emergency management professionals. My hope is for every state to meaningfully integrate DAFN into emergency management and public health with funding to support the work."

Her leadership and advocacy are paving the way for a more inclusive and effective emergency management system. As she continues to lead the Northwest Vermont MRC, Jacqueline Kelley stands as an example of resilience, dedication, and the power of community.