The MRC is a component of the Citizen Corps. The Citizen Corps "a vital component of USA Freedom Corps, was created to help coordinate volunteer activities that will make our communities safer, stronger, and better prepared to respond to any emergency situation. It provides opportunities for people to participate in a range of measures to make their families, their homes, and their communities safer from the threats of crime, terrorism, and disasters of all kinds." The MRC brings together local health professionals and others to volunteer in their community. Trained volunteers assist regular medical response professionals during a large scale local emergency.