Hurricane Relief - Tennessee/North Carolina
One Yes to God changes everything
The Mission
Our mission for Tennessee and North Carolina felt pretty straightforward and simple - rebuild the homes and lives affected after a natural disaster. When we arrived, we soon realized it was so much more than that. It becomes bringing honor, dignity, repair, and hope to a community and people on an individual level. We have the absolute privilege to come alongside our brothers and sisters in service, prayer, and consistency through faith, endurance, and care as Christ taught us.
The Projects
Connect with local relief organizations for volunteer coordination.
Rebuilding of towns, private residences, and businesses impacted by Hurricane Helene.
Helping communities create and giving back a sense of “home” again in communal spaces.
Treadsman work- electrical, plumbing, carpentry, masonry, etc.
Finishing work and beautification- Painting, landscaping, community murals, and spaces.
The Organization
The mission organization I chose to be a part of prioritizes people over projects. One of the many reasons I chose this organization in particular. Their values and “7 healthy missions principles” attracted me to them, as this is one of the only organizations I've had the privilege of being a part of that not only says they prioritize people, but actively shows it. On a more personal level, this is one of the first organizations to genuinely build a connection with me and show me they care.
For me, this was huge. Showing me that no matter the busyness and cluster of chaos at times in the missions world, I still mattered to them.
Seeing firsthand the care and consideration for the communities they wanted to reach by not just coming in with expectations or an agenda, but with a heart to adapt to the people of the area and culture. To not go in there thinking we are bringing Jesus, but to realize he’s already here and at work.
Oh of the project sites in the deep Appalachian Mountains
I am lucky enough to have three teammates to serve with in this mission! Two from PA and one from SC. We also have the privilege of partnering with three local ministry churches to help us host our teams of volunteers. They have been open, welcoming, and centered on Jesus in their church communities and values.
Another thing I found interesting and very respectable is the fact that EM partners with a diverse array of denominations and theologies. It gives people the chance to listen, understand, and respect one another’s perspectives, even if no one changes their minds. It’s been truly refreshing to see that Jesus as the foundation is so widespread and connecting for the greater good without getting lost in the weeds of theology.
I am incredibly blessed to be a part of such a Mission, with the prayers of my friends and family, I will continue to pursue the lord in whatever and wherever he wants to use me in.