====== Volunteer Roles ======

The International Vaccine Codes Initiative (IVC) is a collaborative global network designed to improve vaccine coding and enhance public health worldwide. At its core, IVC thrives on the contributions of dedicated volunteers who share a passion for advancing public health and a desire to engage with the broader international community.

Joining IVC as a volunteer is not just about contributing to a groundbreaking initiative—it’s about expanding your professional horizons. As a volunteer, you will:

  * **Build Global Connections**: Collaborate with vaccine coding experts, public health professionals, and advocates from around the world, fostering meaningful relationships and knowledge-sharing opportunities.
  * **Advance Your Expertise**: Engage with cutting-edge challenges in vaccine coding, gaining unique insights and honing skills that will enhance your professional experience and career development.
  * **Shape the Future of Public Health**: Be at the forefront of global efforts to ensure accurate vaccine coding, improving the ability of healthcare systems to track and respond to immunization needs.
  * **Lead and Innovate**: Play an active role in shaping international discussions, creating resources, and driving initiatives that impact public health across borders.

We’ve created several volunteer roles to help make this initiative a success, each with opportunities to contribute, grow, and connect with peers. Whether you’re a technical expert, a public health advocate, or someone passionate about global health, there’s a role for you.

Your contributions as a volunteer not only support the IVC mission but also position you as a leader in the field of vaccine coding and public health. Join us today to help advance this vital initiative while growing personally and professionally.

===== Point of Contact (POC) =====

A Point of Contact (POC) is a designated individual who serves as the first technical contact for questions about vaccine coding within their jurisdiction (country, province, state, etc.). There can only be **one POC per jurisdiction**, though others from the jurisdiction may participate in IVC calls and activities. The POC’s key responsibilities include:
  * Responding to technical questions about vaccination coding and acting as a first point of contact.
  * Looping in relevant local experts if they do not have the answer, ensuring inquiries are handled effectively.
  * Collaborating with POCs from other jurisdictions to share strategies, learn from peers, and improve vaccine coding practices globally.
  * Attending IVC virtual calls and supporting IVC activities

**Additional Considerations:**

This role is critical to fostering a decentralized, peer-to-peer network. POCs do not need to know all the answers but must take responsibility for ensuring the right expertise is engaged.

===== Country Liaison =====

A Country Liaison is a volunteer focused on building relationships and coordinating activities for a specific country. There can only be **one Country Liaison per country**, though they can enlist support from others to fulfill their responsibilities. Their key responsibilities include:
  * Supporting IVC activities by attending meetings and helping implement group decisions.
  * Recruiting and maintaining a strong relationship with the country’s POC.
  * Advocating for the country’s needs within IVC and keeping the POC informed about updates and resources.
  * Acting as a backup if the POC is unavailable to ensure continuity.
  * Promoting collaboration and information-sharing between the country and the global IVC network.
  * Attending IVC virtual calls and supporting IVC activities

**Additional Considerations:**

The Country Liaison role is ideal for individuals with cultural or professional ties to the country they represent.

===== Cochair =====

Cochairs are integral to the organizational leadership of the IVC. This role supports the planning and execution of IVC’s activities. There should ideally be four Cochairs, each from a different country or jurisdiction, to ensure diverse representation. Current responsibilities include:

  * Participating in monthly IVC virtual call planning meetings (30 minutes).
  * Preparing content or facilitating discussions during IVC virtual meetings.
  * Attending in-person meetings when possible.
  * Reviewing and improving content on the IVC website.
  * Assisting with the recruitment of new IVC members to grow the initiative.
  * Developing opportunities for training and fostering connections within the IVC community.

Cochairs play a crucial role in driving the initiative forward and ensuring it meets the needs of its diverse members.

====== FAQ ====== 

**Why can there only be one POC or Liaison per jurisdiction/country?**

To maintain clarity and accountability, we designate a single person to represent each jurisdiction or country as the main point of contact. However, others can still attend calls and contribute to IVC activities.

**What happens if the designated POC or Liaison steps down?**

IVC will work with the jurisdiction or country to identify and onboard a replacement to ensure continuity.

**Can Cochairs also serve as a POC or Liaison?**

No, to ensure balanced representation and leadership, these roles should be held by different individuals.

**What kind of training or support do POCs, Liaisons, and Cochairs receive?**

Volunteers are provided with orientation resources, peer support, and access to IVC’s technical tools and network.

**What is the time commitment for a Cochair?**

Cochairs commit to monthly planning calls, virtual meetings, and occasional in-person meetings as needed. The overall time commitment averages around 3–5 hours per month.