The response program in Big Pine Key (see “Lending a Hand After the Cameras Are Gone” in this issue) is a wonderful example of what a group of dedicated citizens can do to help a community on the path to recovery. At All Hands and Hearts, we believe there is a real value to providing volunteer labor in the post disaster setting. Communities are often so overwhelmed, and our volunteers provide both physical and psychological support just by showing up!

The Big Pine Key response ran from September to late December. Over 200 sites were completed including mucking and gutting, debris removal and mold sanitation. Over 200 volunteers from 19 different countries provided 13,000 volunteer hours to Big Pine Key. Individuals came together and made a tremendous impact.

While our response work in Big Pine key has ended, we have long-term commitments in Puerto Rico (2 bases), Texas (2 bases) and the US and British Virgin Islands due to the devastating effects from Harvey, Maria and Irma. We also have recovery programs in Nepal and Peru.

Barbara Spiegel and Tom Hodgkin join a growing list of Norfolk volunteers/supporters, and I send an open invitation to anyone who would like to come out and make a difference. Catherine Gevers and Jon Fernandez helped us build homes in Ecuador last fall.  I believe Barbara and Tom and Catherine and Jon would welcome sharing their experiences with All Hands and Hearts. Please join us!

Sara Hannafin
Chief Engagement Officer
All Hands and Hearts