Questions? Email us at: swflmrc@gmail.com
Foundation History
In 2003 the U.S. Surgeon General provided $50,000 in “seed” funds for each startup Medical Reserve Corps (MRC). The MRC could be affiliated with any organization which would provide sovereign immunity to MRC volunteers when they were deployed at disasters. In the case of the Southwest Florida MRC, it was the Lee County Health Department (LCHD).
The organizing committee of the Southwest Florida Medical Reserve Corps(SWFLMRC) recognized that for the SWFLMRC to have long-term viability, there would have to be sources of funds other than the Federal government.
A member of the MRC organizing committee suggested that the SWFLMRC establish an independent fundraising organization in the form of a 501(c)(3) foundation. Contributions to this type of foundation are tax deductable under the Internal Revenue Code.
In mid-2004, the MRC organizing committee drafted by-laws for the proposed not for profit corporation. The by-laws were written to give the not for profit corporation (foundation) broad authority under Florida and Federal laws to engage in fundraising and other activities in support of the SWFLMRC.
The articles of incorporation for the Southwest Florida MRC Foundation, Inc. were issued by the Florida Department of State in January 2005. An organizing meeting of the Foundation was held in February 2005, and officers were elected.
Shortly thereafter, the Foundation submitted an application to the Internal Revenue Service to grant the Foundation tax exempt status under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The Internal Revenue Service approved the tax exempt status of the SWFLMRC Foundation in October 2005.
The Foundation has provided both flexibility and independence to the SWFLMRC. At the time of severe reductions in the Lee County Health Department, the Foundation has used its grants and donations to engage consulting support in providing continuity in volunteer recruiting, training and certification. Also, the Foundation has provided staff and other resources in support of disaster exercises and approved public health programs.
Using its organizational independence, the Foundation has established effective operating relationships with national, state and local MRC organizations. The Foundation has acted as an umbrella organization to establish MRC chapters in local communities throughout the territory of the SWFLMRC. The Chapter Leaders’ Council is now an adjunct organization for the Foundation Board of Directors and will be a source of future Board members and officers. This will further enhance the long-term viability of the Foundation and the SWFLMRC.
Southwest Florida MRC Foundation History
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