March 15, 2004 DC Citizen Corps Plays Active Role During Lead Contamination in District's Water Supply (Washington, DC) The DC Commission on National and Community Service's DC Citizen Corps mobilized more than 60 trained volunteers to assist the Department of Health with the lead contamination in the District of Columbia's water supply. DC Citizen Corps volunteers help distribute 1,600 Brita filters, collect blood samples for 1,445 residents, and assist non-English speaking residents complete application forms.   The Emergency Medical Technician (EMT) Corps, a DC Citizen Corps program, assisted the Department of Health at blood testing and filter distribution sites. A first aid center was also setup to provide emergency medical services.    "This is what we train for," EMT District Chief William Broadus said. "We are ready to help during any public health emergencies that threaten District residents." The response of DC Citizen Corps is part of an ongoing effort to better prepare our community to respond during an emergency. The coordinated effort includes many community partners such as Earth Conservation Corps, Jumpstart and AmeriCorps*National Civilian Community Corps (NCCC). Greater DC Cares, the District's volunteer center, also provides support for spontaneous volunteers, which allows a coordinated response organized through the DC Citizen Corps program and the Emergency Operations Center.   About DC-CNCS The mission of the DC Commission on National and Community Service (DC-CNCS) is to strengthen and promote the spirit of service in the District of Columbia through partnerships, national service and volunteerism. The Commission administers AmeriCorps and Learn and Serve programs in the District and facilitates collaboration among all national service programs. Under the DC Citizen Corps initiative, DC-CNCS provides citizens with volunteer opportunities to help their communities prepare for and respond to emergencies. DC-CNCS also leads Emergency Support Function (ESF) #15 Donations and Volunteer Management in the District's Emergency Response Plan. Other initiatives to promote civic engagement include the monthly Mayor's Community Service Award, National Youth Service Day, and the DC Service Conference.