The Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief ministry is calling for more volunteers to support its crisis response efforts, highlighting the urgent need for trained personnel in disaster-stricken areas. The recent information session in Statesboro shed light on the organization’s work and the increasing demand for hands-on assistance.
A Call to Serve: Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief Rallies Local Volunteers
At Southbridge Church in Statesboro, a crowd gathered to hear firsthand from Dwain Carter, the Disaster Relief Director for the Georgia Baptist Mission Board. Carter’s message was clear: more volunteers are needed, and the mission is about more than just aid—it’s about faith in action.
“Anyhow, anywhere, anyway,” Carter told attendees, emphasizing that the organization’s goal is to deliver hope and healing wherever disaster strikes. The meeting, hosted by the Ogeechee River Baptist Association’s Jeff Parmer, aimed to encourage local participation and shed light on the group’s critical role in crisis relief efforts.
The Backbone of Disaster Relief: Aging Volunteers Carry the Load
One of the striking revelations from Carter’s presentation was the demographic makeup of the current volunteer force.
- The average age of Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief volunteers is 68.
- Many younger individuals are unable to participate due to full-time work commitments.
- Retirees form the core of the organization’s workforce, bringing decades of experience and dedication.
“They all gotta work,” Carter acknowledged, pointing out why the ministry leans on retired individuals who have the time and willingness to serve.
Beyond First Response: The Many Facets of Disaster Relief
Disaster Relief is more than just first responders showing up after a storm. Carter detailed the vast range of services offered, including:
- Feeding programs for displaced individuals.
- Recovery work such as chainsaw operations, flood cleanup, and roof tarping.
- Chaplaincy and family care services.
- Shower and laundry facilities for affected communities.
- Heavy equipment operations and logistics support.
The presentation also highlighted the necessity of background checks and proper credentialing, ensuring that volunteers are trusted by both law enforcement and local officials. Carter shared an instance where a mayor granted access to a disaster site solely because of the rigorous training and security checks Disaster Relief volunteers undergo.
Faith at the Forefront: Spreading the Gospel Through Service
While Disaster Relief focuses on physical aid, Carter made it clear that the organization’s mission is deeply rooted in faith. The ministry uses every opportunity to share the gospel, whether through direct outreach or simple acts of kindness.
“Everything we do, we do to be able to present the gospel,” Carter explained. He shared a particularly moving statistic: 126 individuals gave their lives to Christ during Hurricane Idalia relief efforts in Georgia alone.
In one example, volunteers assisting with laundry services took the time to pray with families and offer spiritual support, turning a basic necessity into a moment of hope.
Getting Involved: Training and Next Steps for Interested Volunteers
For those inspired to serve, Carter outlined the necessary steps to become a Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief volunteer.
- All volunteers must complete a background check.
- Training sessions are mandatory and cover disaster response protocols.
- Upcoming training opportunities, including one in Savannah, are available for those looking to get involved.
Despite the formal requirements, Carter reassured attendees that the heart of Disaster Relief is about service. “The training is important, but it’s really about showing up and helping people in need,” he said.
With disaster response efforts increasing in scale and frequency, the call for volunteers has never been more urgent. Georgia Baptist Disaster Relief is looking for willing hands and compassionate hearts to continue its mission of providing aid, hope, and faith to those in crisis.
