Frequently Asked Questions
We understand there are a lot of questions about the work we do and how people can help us do it. We tried to answer the most common ones below. If you still don’t find the answers you are looking for, please contact us and we’ll be happy to help you.
Is GRM a registered NGO? Is GRM a 501c3?
Yes. GRM is registered in the United States as a tax-exempt 501c3 organization, also sometimes referred to as a non-government organization (NGO).
How does GRM decide where to work?
GRMs staff and leadership look at multiple factors when selecting operations. There’s no one specific indicator that dictates a response; instead, we review the situation through multiple lenses. This document helps clarify factors that we consider.
Are volunteers sent to war zones? Are they armed?
No. GRM field members are unarmed, humanitarian medical teams. To ensure safety in high-risk areas, GRM maintains robust security protocols developed and overseen by security professionals.
How long are volunteers expected to stay in a deployment?
Each mission is unique. In some locations, for example, our work at the U.S./Mexico border, commitments start at one week. For others, like Iraq and Ukraine, we look for a minimum of two-week deployments.
What level of medical experience do volunteers have?
We require all volunteers to be EMT level or higher.
Is past military experience required?
It is not required, but we believe that the veteran community has unique skills that contribute significantly to humanitarian aid.
How does GRM address safety concerns?
“Everyone comes home” is one of GRM’s core values. To work safely in high-risk areas, GRM engages with security experts at every level of the organization, both internal and external. Security protocols are developed for each mission and reevaluated often. Where needed, security personnel travel with teams. All volunteers are briefed on security protocols before deployment, and there is a zero-tolerance policy for violations.
What type of patient needs are handled at the clinics?
At all GRM clinics, patient needs generally mirror those of an urgent care environment. Most people will be suffering from untreated chronic conditions due to being displaced, while some will have acute emergencies or conditions that are endemic to the region. At all times, support is present for expert consultation.
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