Hope for the Holidays

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Dear Friend,

Hope Tree giving season is here! At Inspiritus, our Hope Tree program gives the gift of hope to refugee and immigrant children and families seeking a new life. We partner with individuals, local congregations, and community organizations to give the gift of hope to those in need.

With your generosity, our hope is to ensure every individual we accompany receives something special this holiday season, whether that be a warm winter coat or a gift card. But we can’t do it alone. We invite you to join us in our mission to empower every person we accompany on their journey from surviving to thriving this giving season.

  • All of our locations are collecting coats! Our goal is to collect over 900 new coats for refugees who have arrived this year in Atlanta, Nashville, Birmingham, and Savannah. All coats collected will be distributed to newly arrived refugees and immigrant families.

  • We are also accepting gift cards! If you are unable to donate a winter coat, you also have the option to send a gift card. The gift cards collected will be used to purchase additional coats that we don't receive donations for. Any remaining gift cards will be distributed to families who already have a coat, or live in Savannah where coats aren't as needed, due to warmer temperatures.

  • Please mail donations to Hope Tree INSPIRITUS by December 8th. You can mail your donation to whichever office you would like to support.

  • If you prefer to make a monetary donation to the Hope Tree Holiday Fund, we will use the money collected to purchase needed winter coats. You can donate to this fund by clicking the button below. Please be sure to select 'Hope Tree' when making your contribution.

WHERE TO MAIL YOUR DONATION:

Atlanta Office: 731 Peachtree Street NE, Suite B, Atlanta, GA 30308

Birmingham Office: 117 Southcrest Drive Ste. 104 Birmingham, AL 35209

Nashville Office: 297 Haywood Lane, Nashville, TN 37211

Savannah Office: 6555 Abercorn St., Suite 205 Savannah, Georgia 31405

WHERE TO PURCHASE COATS & GIFT CARDS:

Each of our offices (Atlanta, Birmingham, Nashville, and Savannah) has an Amazon Wishlist where you can purchase and donate warm winter coat and/or a Visa gift card. You can click on the links below to make a donation to the site of your choosing.

  • Atlanta - Purchase Gift Cards & Coats HERE

  • Birmingham - Purchase Gift Cards & Coats HERE

  • Nashville - Purchase Gift Cards & Coats HERE

  • Savannah - Purchase Gift Cards & Coats HERE

If you have questions, please reach out to our Community Engagement Manager, Sarah Burke, at Sarah.Burke@weinspirit.org or 404-797-7505.

Thank you for the meaningful ways you and your congregations live out your lives as people of faith. Inspiritus is blessed to partner with you as we accompany the most vulnerable among us on their journeys from surviving to thriving.

Sincerely,

Aimee Zangandou
Executive Director
Refugees & Immigrants Services
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene Relief: Volunteer Spotlight

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Dear Friend,

As communities across the region continue to recover from the devastating floods caused by Hurricane Helene, we’re inspired by the stories of resilience and compassion emerging from the hardest-hit areas. This recent article highlights the dedication of volunteers like David Marsh, who traveled from Colorado to join Inspiritus’ disaster relief efforts in Mountain City. His story—and the incredible contributions of all who stepped up to help—reflects the heart of our mission to serve those in need when disaster strikes. Read the full story to learn how Inspiritus volunteers are making a lasting impact on the path to recovery.

Volunteers from Colorado, Bahamas Provide Recovery in Mountain City

By: Grace Teater

It’s been a month since Hurricane Helene brought devastating flooding to the region, but recovery is just beginning for those most affected.

Though he has no immediate connections to the area, David Marsh traveled many miles from his home in Colorado for a two-week-long volunteer camp in Mountain City with Inspiritus. Formerly Lutheran Services of Georgia and Lutheran Services in Tennessee, the nonprofit organization provides programs to immigrants and refugees, as well as services to those impacted by natural disasters.

For Marsh, who describes himself as “semi-retired,” providing recovery amid natural disasters carries significant personal importance.

“I was in the San Francisco earthquake in 1989,” he said. “At the time, I was working full-time and decided that at some point I wanted to try and give back. So, I’ve been doing this kind of disaster recovery work because I saw what it was like to be on the other side.”

Once in Mountain City, the nonprofit’s volunteer work consisted of moving debris with heavy machinery, cleaning out basements and rearranging streams to divert them out of homes, among other related tasks.

“For a lot of houses, even if they weren’t flooded, the stream ran through their crawl space,” Marsh said. “You have to get into the crawl space and get out all the fiberglass insulation and their HVAC has to be replaced. All that will just grow mold.”

In total, volunteers put in over 2,000 hours or so in Mountain City, according to Marsh. Individuals came from all over to assist in the effort, including a group from the Bahamas.

In 2019, the Bahamas experienced its own natural disaster with Category 5 Hurricane Dorian. In the aftermath of the powerful storm, the Bahamian volunteers with Inspiritus said America came to their aid in their time of need.

“They are forever thankful,” Marsh said. “They said, ‘The Americans helped us, and we want to help them.’ They came to this area and were warmly received, and they really enjoyed being here.”

Though working amid devastation can become emotionally taxing, Marsh notes that witnessing the appreciation of those impacted is a rewarding experience.

“One family that we helped was in a shelter for the last couple of weeks,” he said. “They couldn't even get to their house. The river had washed out their access to their house and cars. We were able to get access back into their house and get their cars freed up, so now they can go back to work. Lots of tears were shed over that.”

Additionally — given his own experience — Marsh knows that needs will remain strong long after Helene’s immediate aftermath. At this time, Inspiritus has a team over to Fort Myers, Florida doing recovery work from Hurricane Ian in 2022.

“Last time I checked, there were still thousands of people on the waiting list for help,” he added. “I know these things go on forever and Mountain City will be the same.”

Though there are no specific plans in place with Inspiritus, Marsh said he hopes to return to Mountain City and continue his efforts.

“It’s in the news for three weeks and then it’s three years for recovery,” he added. “I try to go when the need is the greatest. That’s often six months to a year later. Mountain City is an amazing community. People are very self-reliant here. They don’t expect help — they help each other.”

To support storm survivors on their road to recovery, click the button below and select the "Disaster Relief" fund.

 

Thank you for your support!

 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Bridging Worlds: A U.S. Veteran’s Mission to Welcome Refugees

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Dear Friend,

At Inspiritus, we are honored to share stories of extraordinary individuals who embody resilience, compassion, and a deep commitment to welcoming those in need. Today, we’re sharing the journey of U.S. military veteran Josh Muehlendorf—a man whose dedication to service and faith in humanity continue to shape lives, including his own. With 22 years in the military, Josh’s experiences in Iraq and Afghanistan opened his heart to the powerful bonds formed across cultures, even amidst the challenges of war. Now, through Inspiritus, he and his family are creating new connections with Afghan refugees in Georgia, helping them find hope and belonging in their new home.

Read more about Josh’s inspiring story and the vital role he plays in our mission to support refugees and immigrants below:

Meet Josh Muehlendorf:

“Love me or hate me for it, I’m a person who…probably falls on the right side of the political spectrum. However, I feel like the whole conversation…especially as a Christian, when we talk about the refugee crisis, we are missing the mark politically.” 

In addition to his Christian values, Josh Muehlendorf’s firm belief in welcoming refugees is informed by his 22 years serving in the U.S. military. Born and raised in Texas, Josh would find “hope and reason for life” at a Christian church at the age of 18 and years later, would enlist in the army, specialize in army aviation and live out a childhood dream of becoming a helicopter pilot. Almost immediately after his training, he was deployed to Iraq, where he completed two tours in five years, one for nine months and another for 15 months. Advancing in his career, Josh would later join the special ops team and find himself deployed to the Middle East once again- this time, in Afghanistan. Throughout his seven stints in Afghanistan, Josh experienced a wide range of feelings and situations that encapsulate the emotionally strenuous nature of war:

“There were things that were hard to deal with… to look at…hard things to learn about myself, to continually process over and over…but there were also some very beautiful moments woven in that show humanity at its best.”

Among those beautiful moments of humanity are the many memories and day-to-day experiences Josh shared with his Afghan brothers and sisters in arms who worked alongside U.S. military members to help interpret and carry out other key roles essential to ensuring our soldiers remain safe and well-positioned for success in their mission abroad.

After returning to the U.S. following the end of his seventh deployment, Josh, his wife, and two kids moved to a base near Savannah, Georgia. It was through their new church that they would be introduced to Ali and Khatira, two former military members from Afghanistan, who were among the lucky ones to be airlifted out of the country in August 2021 before the country fell to the Taliban. Josh and his family were connected to the pair through their friends from church who ran a retreat center right outside Savannah and were partnering with Inspiritus to temporarily house some new refugee arrivals at the center while they waited for their new apartments to get set up. 

Josh met Ali and Khatira at a cookout hosted by their friends- a gathering that would become a recurring event whereby Savannah residents could break bread with their newest neighbors and help establish a sense of community and connections in their new hometown. For Josh and Khatira, that connection would be almost instantly forged. Josh recalls her pulling up some pictures to show him during her time as a soldier in the Afghan military. He quickly learned that their connection ran deeper than he had initially thought.

“When she showed me a picture of her in uniform on a base, I knew right where she was staying. We worked with the same people, doing the same work…in that moment sitting there with Khatira and realizing we were connected in space and time through our jobs…all of a sudden in that moment, I realized there was this deep connection with them.” 

After initially meeting at the cookout, Josh instantly became a dedicated volunteer for Ali and Khatira, providing rides to the grocery store or to various appointments while they save up to get a car of their own. He similarly helped them coordinate the logistics of securing donations for household goods, a task that would eventually lead him to helping Inspiritus coordinate donation drop offs for other Afghan families we resettled to Savannah. Inspiritus was the first human service organization Josh had been involved with, and it was eye-opening for him to learn exactly what it takes to carry out this kind of work. “I learned I cannot be anyone’s savior…it takes some real organization and requires a good team.” It also fully reinforced a belief he already held regarding the importance of continuing to welcome refugees to the U.S. “We need to be accepting refugees. We need to be investing in it and making sure we do it right.”

Josh and his family have recently relocated to Georgetown, Texas. However, he looks forward to reconnecting with Khatira and Ali, whose wife and four children have finally come to reunite with him in Savannah earlier this June. Reflecting on old memories of the cookouts and the Thanksgiving holidays spent together, Josh comments on the profound impact of the moments he shared with Ali, Khatira, and the other Afghans he helped welcome to Savannah. “Afghanistan is a place where I had been a part of some horrible destruction…to now be able to be part of something that was life-giving to those people is incredible. These are wonderful people with hearts of gold…they deserve a shot at this.”

We’re incredibly grateful for supporters like Josh and all those who speak up on behalf of refugees and immigrants in their communities. Your commitment strengthens our shared communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact by welcoming and supporting new neighbors.

To support refugees, please click the button below and select the "Refugee Services" fund.

 
 

Thank you for your partnership and dedication to creating a more inclusive community for all.

 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

We Cannot Do This Alone

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Dear Friend,

The latter part of this week has been immensely challenging for our Refugee & Immigrant Services team at Inspiritus and the newcomer families with whom we walk alongside on a path toward safety, stability, and success in the United States. As a non-partisan and faith-based organization, we historically have always- and will always- continue to welcome the opportunity to work with our elected leaders on both sides of the aisle to ensure survivors of war and persecution can find safety in this country and access the resources they need to get settled and ultimately achieve their own version of the American Dream.

While we are entering a period of relative uncertainty under a new administration, we are simultaneously preparing for certain realities we can expect based on previous experiences. This period was marked by rampant anti-immigrant sentiments and policy changes intended to dismantle the national infrastructure for refugee resettlement entirely.

As we continue operating under the first quarter of a new federal fiscal year within the current administration, our team is on the ground, working tirelessly to meet the moment and help welcome as many new refugee arrivals as we possibly can until a new directive is issued. But we can’t do it alone.

It is our mission to walk with refugees on a path from surviving to thriving. As we await to see how our work and the future of refugee resettlement will be impacted come January 2025, we remain determined to continue paving this path so the world’s most vulnerable individuals may find light in times of darkness. Please help us shine this light and join us on the road ahead to upholding our commitment to human rights and ensuring the United States remains a safe haven for vulnerable families. Now more than ever, we need your support.

 
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Our Commitment Stands.

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Dear Friend,

Inspiritus has been welcoming refugees to the United States since 1981. Throughout the seven different presidential administrations that occupied the White House in these 43 years, we have opened our doors to survivors of war and persecution from all corners of the globe. Let us be clear- we don’t intend to stop now.

Our faith and belief in the United States as a beacon of light, compassion, and opportunity calls for us to welcome the stranger because it is the right thing to do. Our experience in helping thousands of refugees ascend on a path from surviving to thriving calls on us to continue this work because we see first hand how the economic, social, and cultural contributions of refugees and immigrants strengthen our local communities. More than just an ideal or a value, it is a reality we know to be true because we’ve seen too many success stories to count.

It is our mission to empower those whose lives have been disrupted to discover their strengths and resilience, accompanying them as they grow into vibrant contributors to their community. We thank you for the ways that you’ve helped us advance this mission so far in our collective vision to see transformed communities where all, regardless of their background or circumstances, thrive and enrich the world around them.

Now more than ever, it will be imperative that we stand in solidarity with our new American neighbors and preserve the integrity of the welcoming communities we’ve worked hard to build in Metro Atlanta, Savannah, Birmingham, and Nashville.

To learn more about volunteer opportunities, or to show your support by making a donation, click the buttons below.

 

Sincerely,

John Moeller
Chief Executive Officer
Inspiritus

Birmingham Fire Chief Addresses Refugee

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Dear Friend,

As a dedicated volunteer and spokesperson for refugees, Chief Cory Moon exemplifies the spirit of service and inclusivity that we all strive to embrace. Growing up in Birmingham, Alabama, Cory knew from a young age that his calling was to serve his community as a firefighter. Today, as the head of Birmingham Fire and Rescue, he not only leads with bravery and compassion but also advocates for the safety and dignity of everyone in Birmingham—including newly arrived refugee families. Chief Moon believes that, as public servants, "it's our responsibility to make everyone feel welcome and safe." His firsthand understanding of the importance of community reminds us that regardless of our background or origins, we all share a common need for safety, dignity, and a place to belong.

Read more about Chief Moon’s story and his journey below:

Meet Chief Cory Moon:

Cory Moon knew he wanted to be a firefighter since he was five years old. Growing up around the corner from a fire station in his local Birmingham neighborhood, he would see the big, red fire trucks pass up and down his street; however, it wasn’t until a fire broke out at a neighbor’s home that 10-year-old Cory developed a deeper understanding of what the job truly entailed. After tending to his neighbor’s home that night, he recalls several of the firefighters on duty stopping over to chat with him a little bit—a gesture of kindness that left a profound impact on his life and would solidify his commitment to the field and serving his community.

A graduate of both Columbia Southern University and the Alabama Fire College, Cory went on to earn his degree in Emergency Medical Services along with his Firefighter's Certification, and began his first day on the job as a firefighter on March 26, 2001. Now, twenty-one years later, Chief Cory Moon acts as the head of the Birmingham Fire and Rescue Department, a role that he says allows him to “live the dream every day I wake up.”

This dream of pursuing a career in public safety is connected to a larger desire to help others. For Chief Moon, it’s quite simple—when new refugee families arrive in Birmingham, they become an interconnected part of the larger community.

The Birmingham Fire Rescue is a welcoming environment and we want to send the message that we are a good community partner…our services are for everyone.

 

He notes, “The Birmingham Fire Rescue is a welcoming environment, and we want to send the message that we are a good community partner…our services are for everyone. We want people to feel safe to contact us and reach out at any time. It’s our job to provide rapid, reliable, professional emergency services to everyone and keep all visitors and citizens of Birmingham safe—and we do that.” 

Chief Moon was initially connected to Inspiritus almost two years ago and has acted as a consistently present and engaged partner with our Birmingham office. Since representing Birmingham FD at our quarterly community stakeholder meetings, Chief Moon says he has “Learned about challenges that refugees face, but also learned that there are a lot of resources available—especially from Inspiritus—that can help them navigate through their challenges to become active, happy members of the community.”

In June 2023, Chief Moon had an opportunity to meet some of the refugee families we welcomed that year at our World Refugee Day Celebration, hosted by Homewood Church of Christ. When asked about some of the conversations he had, he notes, “They’re people who want the same thing as we do…they want community and safety—just like all of us.”

Cory D. Moon, Chief for the City of Birmingham Fire & Rescue Service and his older brother Rodney Moon.

When asked about what he might say to someone who might have concerns about continuing our country’s long tradition of welcoming refugees, he says: “Remember--this country is a nation of immigrants, and we all have family members that come from a different place. It’s very simple—everyone deserves to be treated with dignity, kindness, and respect. That’s how I live my life, and I expect our personnel to treat everyone with kindness, as well. Follow the golden rule.”

We’re incredibly grateful for supporters like Chief Moon and all those who speak up on behalf of refugees and immigrants in their communities. Your commitment strengthens our shared communities. Together, we can make a lasting impact by welcoming and supporting new neighbors.

To support refugees, please click the button below and select the "Refugee Services" fund.

Thank you for your partnership and dedication to creating a more inclusive community for all.

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Aimee Zangandou
Executive Director
Refugee & Immigrant Services Program
Inspiritus

Elections are Scary for Refugee Agencies

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Dear Friend,

I am honored that Inspiritus was able to spotlight our Refugee and Immigrant Services Program in the latest feature in the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. I hope that my insights can reveal the challenges and uncertainties we face in this critical work, especially as we approach a pivotal election that could shape the future of refugee resettlement in the U.S. I invite you to read the full article and join us in supporting those seeking safety and hope.

Election a ‘scary moment’ for those helping refugees come to Georgia

Future of U.S. refugee program could hinge on presidential election between Trump and Harris

By: Lautaro Grinspan

Aimee Zangandou was just a teen in 1997 when she moved to metro Atlanta with her parents, leaving behind the violent aftermath of a bloody genocide in the family’s native Rwanda. They settled in Stone Mountain via the U.S. refugee program, a legal pathway into the country for people who fear for their safety back home.

Created under former President Jimmy Carter, the refugee program has allowed millions of vulnerable exiles from across the world to start new lives stateside, bringing profound changes to communities across the country — and helping reshape the face of metro Atlanta.

In DeKalb County, a steady stream of newcomers from places such as Bhutan, Somalia, Sudan, Liberia and Vietnam brought national attention to the refugee hub of Clarkston, earning the city monikers ranging from “the most diverse square mile in America” to “the Ellis Island of the South.”

But whether refugees will continue arriving in meaningful numbers is deeply uncertain. The 2024 presidential election has generated intense debate around immigration policy — the byproduct of years of crisis at the southern border — and, depending on the outcome, it could yield big cuts to the refugee program come 2025.

“It’s not easy to find the right words to describe what this moment feels like,” said Zangandou, now an executive director at Inspiritus, one of the five local resettlement agencies that help refugees relocate to Georgia. “Everybody’s nervous.”

The refugee program is coming off a banner year.

From October 2023 through September, Georgia resettled 3,227 refugees, more than all but 11 other states. Nationwide, the U.S. welcomed over 100,000 immigrants through the refugee program in that time span, a thirty-year milestone, according to U.S. Department of State.

The number of refugees who are vetted and cleared to come each year is decided upon by the president.

For the last three years, President Joe Biden has set the annual refugee cap at 125,000. His administration has also admitted tens of thousands of Ukrainians and Afghans through alternative humanitarian avenues outside of the cap.

That has marked a sharp break from the preceding administration. President Donald Trump set historic lows for refugee admission targets, reaching a nadir of 18,000 during his last year in office, with only 11,800 actually admitted.

Trump has said he would suspend refugee resettlement altogether should he retake the White House.

“It’s just such an opposite approach to this work,” said Paedia Mixon, chief executive officer at New American Pathways, a local resettlement agency. “It’s a really challenging thing to say that [after Election Day], something [could] happen that will change our operation night and day, dramatically.”

As a result of the Trump cuts, over 100 resettlement offices shuttered nationwide during his four years in office. In Georgia, local agencies saw their budgets slashed and were forced to downsize during the Trump years.

Inspiritus alone had an 80% capacity reduction in the Atlanta, and lost 50% of its staff across its entire organization, which also resettles refugees in Savannah, Nashville, and Birmingham.

“I think we all feel anxiety. I think the whole collective field feels anxiety,” Mixon said.

Carola Briceño Peña, a refugee from Venezuela, in her Clarkston, Georgia apartment. (Miguel Martinez/AJC)

 

Following the Trump-era downsizing, building capacity back up to adapt to Biden’s much higher refugee caps proved difficult. According to agency leaders, suitable caseworkers need to have a specialized skill set to serve new immigrants, including extensive language skills, which explains why the restoration of the refugee program was slow-going.

The U.S. resettled roughly 11,400 refugees in 2021; 25,400 refugees in 2022; and 60,000 in 2023 before crossing the 100,000 threshold this year.

Unprecedented polarization

Refugee resettlement leaders say the newfound volatility in the federal government’s approach to refugee resettlement is the product of deepening polarization around immigration. As newcomers who arrive via a regulated, legal pathway, refugees hadn’t engendered significant backlash in the past.

But that has started to change.

“Ever since President Carter codified refugee resettlement, and even before that, it was a bipartisan issue. It was bipartisan supported,” said Justin Howell, executive director of the International Rescue Committee (IRC) in Atlanta, a resettlement agency that relocated more than 1,500 refugees from 34 countries in fiscal year 2024, 44% of whom were children.

“It’s only recently that our politics have gotten to the point where immigration has become so heavily politicized,” he said. “I wish we could get back and really look at it from a policy lens, actual data, rather than just emotion. That’s the problem. That’s what this is about, right? It’s about emotion.”

Mixon and Zangandou explained that concerns over border security have led some to conflate refugees with migrants who come to the country illegally.

“There’s some rhetoric around the idea of there being a ‘good’ immigrant and a ‘bad’ immigrant. But I feel like anti-immigrant sentiment is anti-immigrant sentiment. It impacts refugees. It impacts everyone,” Mixon said.

According to Zangandou, evolving political realities and increased “animosity toward the work that we do” have led Inspiritus to spend more time thinking about safety for staffers and refugees.

A new sudden change in policy could have severe implications for agencies like Inspiritus, and it could represent a turning of the page for communities like Clarkston. Still, Zangandou said those facing persecution in other countries would be most affected, if the U.S. refugee program is drastically reduced or no longer exists.

“It’s about life and death for them,” she said.

Resettlement leaders say people locked out of the refugee program may see no other choice for themselves but to try to reach the U.S. via the southern border, and try their luck there.

To support refugees, please click the button below and select the "Refugee Services" fund.

Thank you for your continued support.

Sincerely,

Sincerely,

Aimee Zangandou
Executive Director
Refugee & Immigrant Services Program
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene: Your Help is Needed

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Dear Friend, 

The devastation caused by Hurricanes Helene and Milton has left communities grappling not only with physical destruction but also with deep emotional challenges. The combined impact of these storms has made many residents more vulnerable to depression, anxiety, and post-traumatic stress.

As communities face the heartbreak of lost homes, possessions, and uncertainty, we remain committed to offering both physical assistance and hope—helping survivors rebuild not just their homes, but their lives.

CLICK ON IMAGE BELOW TO PLAY VIDEO


MILTON RESPONSE UPDATES:

Florida residents returned to find flooded streets and homes destroyed after Hurricane Milton, a heartbreaking reality for many who had already faced the devastation of previous storms. The back-to-back disasters have raised concerns about survivors' mental health, and with experts predicting more frequent extreme weather events, the need for both immediate and long-term support has never been more critical.

In response to Hurricane Milton, our teams arrived in Bradenton, Florida, on Thursday, October 17th and set-up a base at Gulf Coast Church. The community has been severely impacted by downed trees and significant debris, creating unsafe conditions for many. Over the next four weeks, our volunteers and partners will be working on chainsaw work, debris removal, heavy equipment operations, and roof tarping to help restore a sense of safety and stability for the residents. Our goal is to bring hope and relief to families as they begin the long journey towards recovery.


HELENE RESPONSE UPDATES:

Our efforts for Hurricane Helene continue in Valdosta, Georgia, with a base at Camp Tygart, serving Lowndes County, GA, and Madison County, FL. We’ve also expanded operations to McDuffie County, near Augusta, and set up a new base in Mountain City, Tennessee, to support recovery in Johnson County.

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has joined us on the ground, bringing hope and helping communities rebuild. If you haven't already, please consider donating or volunteering with our teams. Your support is critical in helping people recover and rebuild after these unprecedented storms.

 

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by dedicated volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. 
To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

We are deeply grateful to everyone who has donated or joined us on the ground. However, the need remains great, and we still need your support. Your donations can provide the critical supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will fund free services like Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw Work, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment operations, especially for families who can't recover on their own. To donate, please click the button below.

Thank you for your continued support as we work hand in hand with local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide vital assistance to those affected. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Disaster Relief Updates

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Dear Friend, 

Inspiritus Disaster Relief teams are working tirelessly to support Hurricane Helene survivors in rebuilding their lives. We’re on the ground in Valdosta, Georgia, providing essential services like Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Muck & Gut, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment support—all at no cost to homeowners. Our base camp is located at Camp Tygart in Valdosta to ensure we can respond swiftly and effectively to the community’s urgent needs.

On October 9th, we expanded our efforts by establishing a second volunteer base in McDuffie County, near Augusta, Georgia. Communities throughout this area have experienced severe damage, requiring extensive chainsaw work. We understand how overwhelming the experience and aftermath of a storm can be for those impacted, and we are working hard to bring help and hope to as many people as possible.

With generous support from donors like you and Lutheran Disaster Response, we are expanding further. On October 11th, we will open a third volunteer base in Mountain City, Tennessee, near the North Carolina and Virginia borders. Starting October 12th, our teams will provide essential chainsaw services, muck & gut work, road repairs, and culvert replacements. We are deeply grateful to First United Methodist Church in Mountain City for graciously hosting our volunteers, enabling us to reach even more families in Eastern Tennessee as they begin their journey toward recovery.

As we continue to monitor the impact of Hurricane Milton, we will keep you informed of our response efforts for that storm as well.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

If you’ve already donated or volunteered, thank you. Your support is making a tangible difference for families starting to rebuild. If you haven’t yet joined us, it’s not too late! Every contribution—whether through a donation or by volunteering—helps make a life-changing impact for those affected by Hurricane Helene. Please consider helping today by clicking the buttons below.

 

RESPONSE SPOTLIGHT

Lastly, we want to shine a spotlight on one of our dedicated Disaster Relief team members, Ryon Dimitrov. Ryon has gone above and beyond in our response to Hurricane Helene, leading the Valdosta team and waking up every morning at 2 AM to keep operations running smoothly—from fueling generators to managing base logistics. He’s also been operating a skid steer to bring in donated trailers, ensuring we have the supplies we need to continue our work. We are incredibly grateful for Ryon’s dedication!

Thank you for your continued support. Together, we can make a lasting difference for survivors on their road to recovery.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene: Your Help is Needed

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Dear Friend,

We want to extend our sincere thanks to those who have already donated to support our Hurricane Helene relief efforts. Your generosity is making a tangible difference in the lives of survivors as they begin their long journey of recovery. We’re also incredibly grateful to those who have stepped up to join our teams on the ground, bringing hope and helping communities rebuild.

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene is immense, and local communities need all the support they can get. If you haven’t already, we encourage you to consider donating to our relief efforts or volunteering with our disaster recovery teams. Your compassion and action are vital in helping people recover and rebuild after this unprecedented storm.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by dedicated volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Mold Sanitation, and Heavy Equipment services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Middle Tennessee Newsletter

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Dear Friends,

We are excited to share some incredible updates and highlights from our work here in Middle Tennessee. Thanks to your ongoing support, Inspiritus continues to empower individuals and families on their journey from surviving to thriving. Here are just a few examples of the impact you’ve helped us achieve recently:

Exciting News: Groundbreaking Soon for the North
Nashville Senior Housing Initiative!

We are just weeks away from the groundbreaking of our new North Nashville Senior Housing Initiative! Major construction will kick off within the next quarter at the corner of Rosa Parks and Garfield Blvd. Thanks to the generous contributions from individuals, foundations, churches, and state, federal, and local government, we are proud to announce that we are 97% funded for this $31 million project, which will provide essential housing and support services for older adults and the wider North Nashville community.

Stay tuned for the announcement of the groundbreaking ceremony date—we can't wait to celebrate this important milestone with you!

Empowering Our Volunteers

This year, we were honored to have Jason, one of our amazing volunteers, named a finalist for the 2024 Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Award. Jason’s dedication to our Nashville Food Pantry has been instrumental in serving vulnerable families, and we couldn’t be prouder of his accomplishments.

Thriving Through Our Refugee Services

Our Refugee & Immigrant Services program continues to grow, and we recently hosted a World Refugee Day celebration in Nashville. The event brought together refugees, community leaders, and supporters like you to celebrate the vibrant cultures and resilience of our new American neighbors. It was a day filled with music, food, and powerful stories of hope.

Thriving Spotlight: Barbara & Dennie

The word “thriving” is everywhere these days, and when we chose it to describe Inspiritus’ mission of helping individuals and families on their path from surviving to thriving, we couldn’t have anticipated its popularity. Thriving and flourishing in our surroundings brings inherent hope, but what does that look like in Empowerment Services in 2024?

Our friend Barbara has sparked many discussions about the urgent need for affordable housing. Thanks to collaborative efforts from partner agencies, Barbara is now thriving in her new apartment in North Nashville. With support from Inspiritus and generous donors who furnished her space, she can finally lay her head down in her own bed after 25 years. “I’m so happy,” Barbara said. “It’s so peaceful here.”

Dennie’s story is another testament to resilience. “I’m free!” she exclaimed in a DHS office recently. Two decades before this day, after a series of traumatic events, Dennie and her daughter ended up on the streets. Although Dennie has been housed and flourishing for years, she still owed the state back child support when her daughter went into state custody while they were unhoused. Every paycheck for the last 10 years has taken out a portion of her small income to pay back the state. Thanks to a generous donor, that debt was cleared this month, lifting a weight off her shoulders.

Policies often fail to reflect the realities faced by those living on the margins. Thriving can seem out of reach when low wages and debt weigh you down. Yet, with the support of Inspiritus, Barbara, Dennie, and many others thrive and inspire against the odds.

We look forward to continuing these important initiatives, and we’re grateful to have you as part of the Inspiritus family. Together, we’re making a real difference in the lives of those we serve.

If you’d like to learn more about our upcoming events or opportunities to get involved, please feel free to reach out to us. Your support is essential to our mission, and we couldn’t do this work without you!

If you are interested in making a monetary contribution to support our efforts in Middle Tennessee or would like to learn more about this impactful work, click the buttons below.

Thank you for your ongoing commitment to Inspiritus and the Middle Tennessee community!

Warm regards,

Janet Arning
Executive Director of Middle Tennessee
Inspiritus


 

Helene & Milton: We need Your Involvement

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Dear Friend,

In recent weeks, the southeastern United States has faced unimaginable challenges in the wake of Hurricane Helene and now the looming threat of Hurricane Milton. Inspiritus is unwavering in our commitment to empowering survivors as they begin the long road to recovery. With simultaneous deployments across multiple cities, we are in urgent need of your help to ensure the success of our disaster response efforts.

As Hurricane Milton bears down on Fort Myers, FL — where we continue long-term recovery operations for survivors of Hurricane Ian — our Disaster Relief teams are closely monitoring the situation and preparing to respond. Due to the severity of the storm, which has now strengthened to a Category 5, our teams have safely evacuated our bases in Valdosta, GA, and Fort Myers. They have temporarily relocated to Columbus, GA, where they will remain until conditions are safe to resume operations.

In addition to our preparations for Hurricane Milton, we are still responding to Hurricane Helene. We will be opening a new base of operations in Augusta, GA, on Friday, October 11, with work scheduled to begin on Saturday, October 12. We are in desperate need of volunteers, especially Team Leaders, to join us in this critical work. If Hurricane Milton causes significant damage to the Fort Myers area, our volunteer teams will be mobilized for local cleanup efforts as soon as it is safe.

Our teams are awaiting confirmation to establish a base in East Tennessee, near the North Carolina and Virginia state lines, to maximize our impact and assist more families and individuals affected by Hurricane Helene in Mountain City and surrounding areas. If activated, we will urgently need volunteers to support these efforts. We expect to have more details by the end of the week and will keep you informed as needs evolve.

This vital work is only possible thanks to the support of our dedicated disaster relief partners:

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by compassionate volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene - particularly Team Leaders. However, whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Mold Sanitation and Heavy Equipment services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Helene: Survivors Need Your Help

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Dear Friend,

The devastation caused by Hurricane Helene has left countless families and communities across the southeastern United States struggling to recover. Right now, Inspiritus Disaster Relief Teams are on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL providing free assistance to help storm survivors rebuild their homes and lives. We are preparing to open a second response site that will be located in Augusta, GA and will have more information soon. Volunteers are needed.

Our teams are providing essential services, including Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Mold Sanitation, Chainsaw, and Heavy Equipment services wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those most vulnerable, including families with children, seniors, veterans, and low-income households. These critical services are bringing much needed hope to families impacted by the storm, but we need your help to continue this life-changing work.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER:

Our efforts are powered by compassionate volunteers who have traveled from across the country to lend their hands and hearts. We’re currently seeking more volunteers to join us in supporting those impacted by Hurricane Helene. Whether you’re skilled in disaster response or simply eager to make a difference, we welcome your support. To volunteer, click the button below.

DONATE:

If you’re unable to volunteer, your donation can help us provide the supplies and resources necessary to assist more families on their road to recovery. Every contribution, big or small, brings us closer to helping communities heal and rebuild. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help. To donate, click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

The Presidential Declaration

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Dear Friends,

Each year, the White House announces the number of refugees that will be welcomed into the US in the coming year. On behalf of the Inspiritus Refugees & Immigrants services team, we are excited to share the 2025 Presidential Declaration. Click the button below to read now. 

To further support our Refugee & Immigrant Services programming, visit our website to DONATE or VOLUNTEER.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Helene: We Need Your Help

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Dear Friends,

In the wake of Hurricane Helene's devastation, many of you have reached out, asking how you can help those affected. 

Inspiritus disaster relief teams are on the ground in Valdosta, Georgia, and Madison, Florida, working tirelessly to support survivors and guide them on the road to recovery. With your continued support, we hope to open an additional volunteer camp in the Savannah, Georgia region and will keep you updated as things develop. However, the scale of the destruction is immense, and we need your help to continue providing life-changing support.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Helene Response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL. All skill levels are welcome and no prior training is needed to make an impact. If you want to help, but are unable to travel, we are also looking for volunteers to answer Crisis Clean Up calls, which can be done from home. 

Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Helene Teams Deployed: Your Help is Needed

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Dear Friends,

As Hurricane Helene continues to devastate communities across Alabama, Florida, Georgia, Kentucky, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Virginia, and West Virginia, we wanted to provide an important update on our ongoing relief efforts. Inspiritus teams were prepositioned in coastal Georgia early last week, anticipating the widespread destruction along the southern coast of Georgia and northern Florida. To best support the impacted areas, we established a base camp at Camp Tygart in Valdosta, GA on Saturday to support both the south Georgia and north Florida regions.

Since then, our teams have been actively providing critical relief in and around Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL, including chainsaw operations and heavy equipment support for debris removal. Despite having no power or water at the base camp, our teams are pushing forward to meet the urgent needs of these communities.

“We’ve never seen anything like this” shares Sherry Buresh, Inspiritus Disaster Relief Director.

Hurricane Helene has caused devastation across multiple states since making landfall as a Category 4 hurricane in Florida’s Big Bend region on Sept. 26. Some areas have seen over 30 inches of rainfall, with storm surges reaching up to 10 feet. More than two million people remain without power across Florida, Georgia, South Carolinas, and North Carolina. Response efforts are ongoing, but many areas, especially communities throughout Tennessee and the Carolinas, remain cut off due to flooding and blocked roads. Tragically, over 116 lives have been lost, with North Carolina reporting the highest number of fatalities and over 1,000 people still missing. 

We are actively monitoring calls with the Florida VOAD, Georgia VOAD, and Tennessee VOAD, as well as Emergency Operations Centers. Given the widespread destruction, and if we secure much needed support, we are hopeful to set up two more bases in other impacted areas, allowing us to expand our reach and operations.

With so many communities still struggling and not receiving the help they need, WE NEED YOUR ASSISTANCE. Your support, whether through volunteering or financial contributions, is critical to ensuring we can continue delivering help to those hardest hit by this storm. Inspiritus staff, clients, supporters and neighbors in our local communities have unfortunately been impacted by this storm and need your help.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Helene Response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.
 

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Valdosta, GA and Madison, FL. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for standing with us as we work alongside local communities, partners, and volunteers to provide critical support to those in need. Your generosity and compassion makes all the difference.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Debby Response Update

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Dear Friends,

It has been seven weeks since Hurricane Debby made landfall, leaving a trail of devastation across Georgia, particularly in Lowndes and Chatham counties. In Chatham County, around Savannah, the storm triggered severe flooding, prompting evacuations and water rescues by local emergency responders. Meanwhile, in Lowndes County, areas near Valdosta faced powerful winds and heavy rainfall, leading to tornado warnings and widespread power outages. The State of Georgia deployed National Guard troops to assist in the emergency response, particularly in coastal and low-lying areas.

On August 14, 2024, Inspiritus Disaster Response teams arrived in Lowndes and Chatham counties to support survivors on their road to recovery. Our teams provided free Muck & Gut, Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping, and Heavy Equipment services wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those most vulnerable, including families with children, seniors, veterans, and low-income households.

During our six-week deployment, with the unwavering support of our partners, volunteers, and generous donors, we empowered 722 survivors on their journey from surviving to thriving.

IN THE NEWS: HURRICANE DEBBY COVERAGE

PLEASE CLICK ON ABOVE IMAGE TO PLAY NEWS CLIP

Linked below are additional news features highlighting the incredible work led by our staff, volunteer leaders, and Team Depot employees from local stores in response to Hurricane Debby:

WHAT WE DID:

  • Capacity Building: Inspiritus staff coordinated with local emergency and city/county officials to assist with local capacity building efforts. While staff actively supported operations in and around Lowndes and Chatham counties, they also assisted leaders in other local towns and counties to help them assess and manage the people and resources they needed. 

  • Home Assessments, Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping and Heavy Equipment Services: Volunteers conducted Home Assessments and provided free Muck & Gut, Debris Removal, Chainsaw, Roof Tarping, and Heavy Equipment Services for local residents’ homes where it was safe to enter.

  • Support & Care: Volunteers accompanied survivors as they navigated one of the most difficult tragedies and challenges of their lives. In this accompaniment, we walk alongside each individual we come in contact with, helping them to tap into the resilience within themselves. Prayer and spiritual encouragement is often greatly appreciated by many survivors and Inspiritus volunteers often provide this comforting and empowering form of care, when it is welcomed. Hope and hugs are often powerfully strengthening for survivors during their darkest hours.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Debby: Inspiritus Teams Deployed

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Dear Friends,

As you may know, Hurricane Debby has caused significant damage throughout the state of Georgia, particularly in Lowndes and Chatham counties. In Savannah, the storm brought about unprecedented flooding, with the city receiving nearly 10 inches of rain—more than twice the typical rainfall for the entire month of August. The flooding severely impacted neighborhoods, submerged roads, and led to widespread power outages. In Lowndes County, the situation was similarly dire, with heavy rains causing rivers and creeks to overflow, leading to road closures and widespread property damage. Georgia Governor Brian Kemp has extended the State of Emergency, deploying the National Guard and other state resources to assist with road repairs, debris removal, and emergency services. Sadly, Hurricane Debby has resulted in the death of at least 14 people across several states, including Georgia. 

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Project Tasks & Activities:

Inspiritus Disaster Response Teams have been deployed to Lowndes and Chatham Counties and will arrive on Wednesday, August 14. We will be providing a range of critical services, including debris removal, muck and gut, mold sanitation, chainsaw assistance, and small tarp jobs. Additionally, we have heavy equipment teams on standby, prepared to deploy as needed. These services will be provided wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those who are the most vulnerable, families with children, seniors, veterans, and especially low-income households.

To support our volunteers and maximize our impact, we have secured housing at Garden City United Methodist Church in Savannah, which is centrally located to allow us to reach impacted homeowners in Bulloch, Chatham, and Effingham counties efficiently. Additionally, we have secured housing accommodations at the Georgia Bible Camp in Hahira, GA, situated in Lowndes County, to support our efforts in assisting the local community. Inspiritus is also partnering with International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), Community Organized Relief Effort (CORE), and other organizations to ensure homeowners get the comprehensive support they need during this time. As of now, our teams will remain on the ground for the next 30 days.

Projected Outcomes:

  • Providing Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation, services to communities as needed/available

  • Providing Free Home Needs Assessments

  • Support Individuals Impacted by the Disaster

Community Benefit:

Inspiritus is working to build local disaster response capacities, while also providing direct services to survivors.

  • Capacity Building: Inspiritus is partnering with local emergency and city/county officials to build local disaster response capacity, as needed.

  • Direct Services: Inspiritus staff and volunteers are providing Home Needs Assessments, Debris Removal, and Chainsaw services, along with emotional care to bring safety and peace of mind to homeowners requesting assistance. 

  • Support & Care: Volunteers are accompanying survivors as they navigate one of the most difficult tragedies and challenges of their lives. In this accompaniment, we walk alongside each individual we come in contact with, helping them to tap into the resilience within themselves. Prayer and spiritual encouragement is often greatly appreciated by many survivors and Inspiritus volunteers often provide this comforting and empowering form of care, when it is welcomed. Hope and hugs are often powerfully strengthening for survivors during their darkest hours.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE:

We encourage you to support our Hurricane Debby Response response efforts by donating. The more funds we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by the storm. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, Chainsaw, and Mold Sanitation services to help families affected, especially those who can't recover without help.
 

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower hurricane survivors on the road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Lowndes and Chatham Counties. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

DONATE:

Donate to Inspiritus. The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, and Chainsaw services to help families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower storm survivors on their road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Matagorda County. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

Thank you for your support.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Debby: Pray for Those Impacted

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Dear Friends,

This morning, Hurricane Debby made landfall along the Big Bend coast of Florida as a Category 1 storm, causing extensive flooding and widespread power outages across the region before it's path continued toward Georgia and South Carolina. According to the National Hurricane Center, Debby, the fourth named storm of what is expected to be a historic hurricane season, made landfall at 7 a.m near the coastal town of Steinhatchee with maximum wind speeds of 80 mph. As the storm's path continues, The National Weather Service is reporting a high risk of flash flooding over southeast and central Georgia on Monday and Tuesday. Officials expect between seven and 10 inches of rain with 13 or more inches possible in the extreme southeast central part of the state. Georgia Governor, Brian Kemp, has officially declared a State of Emergency.

WHAT WE ARE DOING:

Inspiritus Disaster Relief staff are closely monitoring the storms impact, and our teams are preparing to deploy wherever needed most. Our primary focus is on Georgia's east coast, particularly in and around the Savannah area, where Inspiritus offices are located. In anticipation of the storms arrival, Inspiritus offices in the Savannah coastal region are closed. If called to respond, we will provide updates as reports come in and as our teams begin their relief efforts on the ground. 

Thank you for your support.
 

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Hurricane Beryl Disaster Response Update #2

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Dear Friends,

We are honored to share an inspiring update on our Hurricane Beryl Disaster Response efforts in Bay City, Texas. Inspiritus' dedicated Disaster Relief teams are hard at work providing critical assistance to the Sanford Community Center, a cornerstone of hope and unity for the Bay City community.

The Sanford Community Center (pictured below) has long been a vital resource for residents, offering a safe and welcoming space for youth, families, and visitors to engage in a variety of activities including art, ESL, poetry, and cooking classes, as well as hosting public events. Unfortunately, when Hurricane Beryl made landfall, the center suffered extensive damage. The hurricane’s fierce winds uprooted trees and left dangerous debris, including hanging limbs that now threaten the safety of the playground used by local children.

In response, our Inspiritus Disaster Relief teams have mobilized to provide essential chainsaw and swamping services. We are working diligently to clear the debris and ensure the Sanford Community Center can safely reopen its doors to the community as soon as possible.

This building is not only a community hub but also a significant historical landmark. Originally constructed in 1928 as The Palacios Colored School, it served as an educational facility during the segregation era in Texas (1928-1965). Following the end of segregation, the school closed in 1965 but was revitalized in 1967 as Rainbow Land Day Care, serving all children in Palacios until 2011. In 2016, the Palacios Community Coalition, a 501(c)(3) organization, purchased and transformed the historic property into the Sanford Community Center.

Our mission at Inspiritus is to empower communities and restore hope, and we are honored to contribute to the rehabilitation of this important center. Your ongoing support is crucial to our efforts, and we are deeply thankful for your commitment to our cause.

We will continue our Response in Matagorda County, Texas through August 9. There is still time to help and a great need for assistance of any volunteer skill level. Click the button below to learn how you or your group can empower Hurricane Beryl survivors on their road to recovery. 

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Project Tasks & Activities:

Our teams are providing free Home Assessment, Chainsaw, Debris Removal, and Muck & Gut services wherever needed most, with priority on assisting those who are the most vulnerable, families with children, seniors, veterans, and especially low-income households.

Current Outcomes:

  • 94 Storm Survivor Empowered

  • 363 Volunteer Hours Served

  • 49 Jobs Completed Across 24 Homes/Project Sites

Community Benefit: 

Inspiritus is working to build local disaster response capacities, while also providing direct services to survivors.

  • Capacity Building: Inspiritus is partnering with local emergency and city/county officials to build local disaster response capacity, as needed.

  • Direct Services: Inspiritus staff and volunteers are providing Home Needs Assessments, Debris Removal, Chainsaw services, and Muck & Gut Services, along with emotional care to bring safety and peace of mind to homeowners requesting assistance. 

  • Support & Care: Volunteers are accompanying survivors as they navigate one of the most difficult tragedies and challenges of their lives. In this accompaniment, we walk alongside each individual we come in contact with, helping them to tap into the resilience within themselves. Prayer and spiritual encouragement is often greatly appreciated by many survivors and Inspiritus volunteers often provide this comforting and empowering form of care, when it is welcomed. Hope and hugs are often powerfully strengthening for survivors during their darkest hours.

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

DONATE:

Donate to Inspiritus. The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground continuing to help families and individuals impacted by Hurricane Beryl. Your support will provide free Debris Removal, Muck & Gut, and Chainsaw services to help families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

VOLUNTEER:

If you would like to make an impact and empower storm survivors on their road to recovery, please consider joining our Disaster Relief Team on the ground in Matagorda County. Our work would not be possible without the support of volunteers like you, committed to assisting survivors in their darkest hours. If you are interested in volunteering, please click the button below.

On behalf of Inspiritus staff and communities impacted by Hurricane Beryl, we are grateful for the generous support from partners, like International Orthodox Christian Charities (IOCC), First Presbyterian Church of Bay City, local government agencies, volunteers, and numerous others that are helping survivors safely return home.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus