12 Days Away from Hunger WalkRun 2022!

Hello Friends!

We're only 12 days away from the Hunger Walk/Run on Sunday, March 6.

Here are 12 ways you can participate:

1. REGISTER!

2. Set up your own team

3. Dine & Donate!

4. Donate to Inspiritus!

5. Fundraise for a team

6. Become a Champion!

7. Join the Inspiritus Team

8. Donate to the Inspiritus team!

9. Grab your Parking Pass today! You can buy your pass on event day but the fee will be much higher.

10. Promote #HWR2022 on your social channels*

11. Send this email to friends & family, encouraging them to donate or walk/run

12. Join a Hunger Walk virtual event

*Get Social! Make sure to include a link to your personal or team fundraising page in every Facebook, Instagram and Twitter post about the Hunger Walk Run. Be sure to tag the Food Bank @ACFB (on Instagram and Twitter) and use the hashtag #HWR2022. Also, send thank you notes to supporters...it's important to thank everyone that is supporting you!

Join the Hunger Walk Champions Club

We've had a big jump in Champions! Remember that anyone who raises $500 or more earns a spot in Hunger Walk's Champions Club and is eligible for special benefits and privileges.

Click here to learn more about the Champions Club.

Congratulations to our VIP Champions:

• Tina Blackney, St. Luke Lutheran Church, Atlanta

• Don Larsen, Lutheran Church of the Good Shepherd, Douglasville

• Mike Frey, Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Marietta

• Amanda Masters, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Marietta

• Joe Masters, Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Marietta

• Rachel Thornton, Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Marietta

Congratulations to our Champions:

• Jennifer Carson, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Johns Creek

• Lorraine Dorough, Lutheran Church of the Redeemer, Atlanta

• Karen Palmiotti, Prince of Peace Lutheran Church, Johns Creek

• Heather Wallace, St. John’s Lutheran Church, Atlanta

• Chuck Storla, Lutheran Church of the Resurrection, Marietta

Teams walking during Hunger WalkRun 2021

Don’t Forget to Pick Up Your T-Shirts:

All walkers and runners who register online are eligible to receive one official Hunger Walk Run event t-shirt per person. This year the walker shirt is orange and the runner shirt is plum-check them out here. T-shirts will be distributed the day of the event and are subject to availability. If you or your team would like to grab your t-shirts before Hunger Walk, we're offering two pick up days prior to the event. Pick up your shirts March 2nd or 3rd from 11:30am - 2:30pm at the Food Drive dock on the front right side of the building: Atlanta Community Food Bank, 3400 N. Desert Drive, Atlanta, GA 30344. T-shirts will also be mailed to all virtual participants.

See you on the 6th at the Home Depot Backyard!

We are planning on being in person at The Home Depot Backyard on Sunday, March 6. We will continue to monitor the environment and coordinate with local officials in the weeks leading up to the event.

Event Details:
Sunday, March 6, 2022
Noon: Event Opens, Onsite Registration & Entertainment Begins
2:00pm: 5K Fun Walk & Run Begins
4:00pm: Event Ends

Or find a trail near you!

Join your team, family or friends and get active in your community, walking or running at any time or join us virtually on March 6. Find a great outdoor trail near you to get your steps in and help feed a hungry neighbor. Help us keep the energy of Hunger WalkRun going by posting your photos to Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter, tagging the Food Bank (@ACFB on Instagram and Twitter) and using the hashtag #HWR2022

Team Inspiritus : Hunger WalkRun 2021

We have over 111 registered walkers and runners, 20 teams and $23,300 in confirmed gifts! Donations are still coming in as we write this.

Let's keep this momentum going and add more teams for our strongest turnout yet. Please contact me at Lorraine Dorough if you have any last-minute questions. Hunger Walk is a great chance to get outside, get active AND support a great cause!

With Gratitude,
– Lorraine Dorough
Inspiritus

Did you know that ACFB’s goal is $800,000 this year? Inspiritus raised over $92,000 last year so let's try to surpass that goal this year. Together, we can do it!

Become a 2022 Hunger Walk Champion!

Hello Friends,

We're just under a month away from the virtual and in-person Hunger Walk/Run on March 6, so we're sharing more ideas to help you get ready and meet your fundraising goal!

1. Register Online Today

Register for the 2022 Hunger Walk Run here. In addition to the registration fee, consider making an additional donation. This will show everyone that you're excited about supporting local hunger relief.

This year, Hunger Walk Run is both in-person AND virtual—at the Home Depot Backyard, and on every sidewalk, track and trail in your neighborhood. You can participate at any time or join us virtually on event day, Sunday, March 6.

The Atlanta Community Food Bank will continue to monitor the environment and coordinate with local officials in the weeks leading up to the event to ensure the health and safety of all participants.

In Person: Hunger Walk Run takes place at The Home Depot Backyard (view directions). The 5K route takes participants through downtown Atlanta. The schedule of events is as follows:

12:00pm - Onsite registration begins

2:00pm - 5K Fun Run commences, followed shortly thereafter by the Walk

4:00pm - Park closes and event ends

Virtual: Rally your team, family or friends and get active in your community, walking or running at any time. Take a selfie while walking in your neighborhood, rocking your treadmill, or spinning on your bike! Help us keep the energy of Hunger Walk Run going by posting your photo to Instagram, Facebook and Twitter, tagging the Food Bank (@atlfoodbank on Facebook and @ACFB on Instagram & Twitter). Don't forget to use the hashtag #HWR2022 in your post!

Parking fees for this event:

Enjoy parking that's close and convenient to Hunger Walk Run 2022. Purchase your passes here. We strongly encourage you to buy parking passes by March 4. Parking can be purchased on race day, but the parking fee will be higher. Hint: The Orange Deck is right next to the Home Depot Backyard!

2. Become a Hunger Walk Champion!

You can lead the way! Raise $500 or more* to help fight hunger and feed struggling neighbors and you’ll join the elite ranks of the Hunger Walk Run Champions Club.

Members of the Champions Club receive the following benefits:

$500 level

• Recognition on the Hunger Walk Run website

• Hunger Walk Run collectible pin

• Champions Club Certificate

• Fundraising badge on your personal fundraising page

• Access to VIP Tent on Event Day

• Invitation to Special Recognition Event

$1,000 level

• VIP Parking on Event Day

• Onstage Recognition during the Event

• Premier Recognition on the Hunger Walk Run website

• Hunger Walk Run collectible pin

• Fundraising badge on your personal fundraising page

• Access to VIP Tent on Event Day

• Champions Club Certificate

• Invitation to Special Recognition Event

*Champions Club status is based upon your individual fundraising efforts, not the amount your team has raised collectively.

Click here to learn more about the Champions Club.

We have our very first VIP Champion - Congratulations Tina Blackney from St. Luke Lutheran Church, Atlanta!

Pictured Above: Aimee Zangandou, Our Director of Refugee and Immigrant Services, walking at the 2021 Virtual Hunger Walk with other team members.

3. FUNDRAISE:

Check out the "Fundraising Made Easy" section of the Hunger Walk's website for ideas on how to get started toward your goal. There are many online and offline fundraising tools, as well as coaching, advice and tips. Or get creative! Have a great idea for a fundraiser? Please share those ideas with us - we love to hear about the innovative ways our teams are raising money. Email me at lorraine.dorough@weinspirit.org

Did you know that ACFB’s goal is $800,000 this year? Inspiritus raised over $92,000 last year so let's try to surpass that goal this year. $100,000? $200,000? Together, we can do it!

4. T-Shirts:

All registered walkers or runners are eligible to receive one official Hunger Walk Run event t-shirt per person. This year the walker shirt is orange and the runner shirt is plum. T-shirts will be distributed the day of the event and are subject to availability. There are plans for a team t-shirt pick-up day at the Atlanta Community Food Bank, date TBD. T-shirts will be mailed to all virtual participants.

5. Get Going!

With your generosity, the funds raised will help stock shelves in hundreds of food pantries, shelters, child & senior centers, and community kitchens across North Georgia. As of today, we have 14 teams registered and have raised $10,000! Let's keep this success going and add more teams for our strongest turnout yet. Hunger Walk is a great chance to get outside, get active AND support a great cause.

With Gratitude,
– Lorraine Dorough
Inspiritus

Thank You for Your Support This Year!

Dear Friends,

I wanted to reach out to all of you before the end of this year and extend to you my warmest wishes this holiday season.

Through your generous support, we were able to empower more people we serve on their journey from surviving to thriving during what was a busy and challenging 2021.

So many of you shared your generosity in various ways: through donations, virtual fundraising activities like the Hunger Walk, and your in-kind gifts (such as the recent 398 coat donations for our Hope Tree program)!

Thank you from all of us here at Inspiritus. We couldn't do what we do without you. Here's wishing you a happy and healthy start to 2022.

With Gratitude,

Rev. John R. Moeller, Jr.
President & CEO
Inspiritus

Giving Tuesday is Today!

Hi Friend,

Giving Tuesday is finally here!

This is a very important fundraising day for us. If you have already supported us this Giving Tuesday, we thank you! If you are looking to give for the first time today, see how your donation can help individuals and families on the path from surviving to thriving:

• $25 will help fight hunger and food insecurity for families in need

• $100 will provide critical supplies for children who are in foster care

• $250 will give hope to tornado and storm survivors in the South

• $1000 will help Afghan Allies and other refugees start a new life

Please show your support by donating today, and by sharing our Giving Tuesday video across your social networks using the hashtags #Inspiritus #GivingTuesday.

We are so grateful for your support!

With Gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Georgia residents: If you live in Georgia, Inspiritus is partnering with Georgia Gives this Giving Tuesday. GAgives is a program of the Georgia Center for Nonprofits. Your early donation will help kick-start our efforts! Please donate using the button below:

Outside of Georgia: If you live outside of Georgia, please donate using our main website link below:

Giving Tuesday is a week away!

Dear Friend,

We're just a week from Giving Tuesday! When you join us for #GivingTuesday on November 30, 2021, you help empower and guide more individuals and families on a path from surviving to thriving.

Your donations are especially important this holiday season, as you can help give stability to Afghan refugees like Nadir.*

*Names have been changed to protect the individual mentioned

Nadir, an Oxford educated Economist working at the US Embassy in Afghanistan was resettled in Atlanta recently with his wife and six kids. “We were told to pack and wait for the call. One day felt like a year waiting for that call. I couldn’t think straight. We packed biscuits and water for the kids. We left everything behind. All our money was frozen in the Afghanistan bank. When we received the call, we were told we had 45 minutes to get to the designated location to evacuate. The fear was enormous. On the drive there, no one was on the street because they were in hiding from the Taliban. That made it scarier because there were no crowds to blend in with. We made it in 15 minutes.”

Your gift will empower Nadir and other Afghan Allies to rebuild their lives here in the United States. Not only can you help give stability to Afghan refugee and immigrant families seeking a new life this Giving Tuesday, you can help give comfort to children and adults struggling with developmental or intellectual disabilities, and safety to disaster relief survivors who have been displaced. Please consider the giving levels below:

Georgia residents: If you live in Georgia, Inspiritus is partnering with Georgia Gives this Giving Tuesday. GAgives is a program of the Georgia Center for Nonprofits. Your early donation will help kick-start our efforts! Please donate using the button below:

Outside of Georgia: If you live outside of Georgia, please donate using our main website link below:

Last year, you helped Inspiritus raise over $12,000. Join us next Tuesday, November 30, and help us surpass last year's goal!

Let's come together as a community to give... to serve... to THRIVE. Your donations help make our work possible. We hope you can join us. We are so grateful for your support!

With Gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Make a Difference This Giving Tuesday!

Dear Friend,

We're just 13 days away from Giving Tuesday! Last year, you helped Inspiritus raise over $12,000. We are so grateful for your support. When you join us again for #GivingTuesday on November 30, 2021, you help empower and guide more individuals and families on a path from surviving to thriving. See how your gift makes a direct impact below:

Your donations are especially important this holiday season. You can help give stability to Afghan refugee and immigrant families seeking a new life, comfort to children and adults struggling with developmental or intellectual disabilities, and safety to disaster relief survivors who have been displaced. Please consider the giving levels below:

Georgia residents: If you live in Georgia, Inspiritus is partnering with Georgia Gives this Giving Tuesday. GAgives is a program of the Georgia Center for Nonprofits. Your early donation will help kick-start our efforts! Please donate using the button below:

Outside of Georgia: If you live outside of Georgia, please donate using our main website link below:

This Giving Tuesday on November 30, we will come together as a community to give... to serve... to THRIVE. Your donations help make our work possible. We hope you can join us!

With Gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Give Hope This Holiday Season

Dear Friends,

The INSPIRITUS Hope Tree program gives the gift of hope to children in foster care, refugee and immigrant families seeking a new life, and adults with developmental or intellectual disabilities who may not otherwise receive a gift.

Last year we made some significant changes to what and how we collect Hope Tree gifts due to the Coronavirus pandemic. While we anticipated receiving less support than usual given the widespread impact of the pandemic, we were delighted by the very strong response we received. Thanks to your generosity, everyone on our list received a gift and we were able to meet our deadlines with time to spare!

While we’ve come a long way since the 2020 Hope Tree season, we also know that times are still difficult for many. As we plan for this year we are mindful of the increased number of refugees and immigrants we are serving, as well as the increased number of children in our foster homes. We are also aware that many of our donors and supporters continue to find themselves in different financial circumstances than they were in pre-pandemic days. Still, we trust that the Inspiritus community will rally around those we accompany as it always does, and that there will be more than enough to go around.

This year we are again making it easy to be part of Hope Tree giving. You can contribute in any of the following ways:

1) By providing over 400 gift cards!

We are collecting 250 $25 Amazon gift cards to be used for our Refugee and Immigrant Services and Children and Family Services participants. You can purchase those online here

We are also collecting 155 $25 Walmart gift cards for our Disability Services participants. You can purchase those online here

We do need to RECEIVE all gift cards by December 16, 2021 (whether you purchased them online or at a store).

If you purchased your gift cards offline, please send them to: Inspiritus 731 Peachtree St. NE Suite B Atlanta, GA 30308. If you have questions, please reach out to Sherise Boston, Operations Manager, at Sherise.Boston@weinspirit.org or 404-875-0201 (ext. 1010).

2) By providing over 180 coats!

Coats are being collected exclusively for new refugees & immigrants who will be spending their first winter in the United States. This includes those who have been resettled as part of the new APA (Afghan Placement and Assistance) Program. We may be welcoming an additional 400 Afghans by the end of the year. Our goal may increase to meet the need.

Go to Sign-Up Genius for coat donations here

Thank you for the meaningful ways you 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.

View fullsize

Also, be sure to join us for #GivingTuesday - the Global Day of Giving on Tuesday, Nov 30, 2021.

We're proud to be a part of this global celebration of giving through GAGives. In this time of uncertainty, there's a fundamental truth that gives us hope - that together we can do extraordinary things.

Save the date and be sure to bookmark this link: https://www.gagives.org/organization/Inspiritus

With Gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Thank you for joining our virtual "State of Inspiritus"

Dear Friend,

Thank you for attending our first annual "State of Inspiritus" virtual event last week. We were thrilled to share with our dedicated supporters how you help make this work possible and the lives impacted

The inspiring stories from our program leaders and organizational insights can be accessed in the recordings below. Please feel free to share these with friends and colleagues who may be interested.

Click links to view:

A Thriving Future

A high-level look at the road ahead (5 mins)

Adapting to Change

An insightful discussion of challenges Inspiritus navigated in recent years (15 minutes)

Surviving to Thriving

What success looks like across Inspiritus’ five major program areas (16 minutes)

Together, We Thrive

Inspiring and strategic ways our community stepped-up and made a difference (5 minutes)

Better Equipping Our Community

How you can safely impact our community and five major programs (14 minutes)

I would like to extend a special thank you to our program panelists, Renee, Sherry, Janet, Becca, and Suzette, and their dedicated teams. They are how we guide so many of our neighbors on the path from surviving to thriving.

Also, please look for our Hope Tree gift program email in the next week. It is another way you can show your support and make an impact directly. By donating gift cards and coats, you will be helping the many individuals and children we serve who otherwise may not receive gifts this holiday season.

We are so grateful for your support.

Warmest Regards,

Rev. John R. Moeller, Jr.
President & CEO
Inspiritus

You're Invited to the "State of Inspiritus" Virtual Event

Dear Friend,

You're invited to our 2021 State of Inspiritus virtual event on Tuesday, October 19 at 7pm EST. It will take a look at what we've accomplished, the challenges we faced in recent years and the road ahead. You will hear inspiring stories from Inspiritus program leaders, how our staff and community helped individuals on their journey from surviving to thriving, and the many ways you can impact lives across our five major program areas, including:

• Disaster Relief

• Children & Family Services

• Refugee & Immigration Services

• Tennessee Empowerment Programs

• Disability & Health Services Programs

We hope you’ll join us on October 19 for this special event–register today by clicking on the button below.

Also, please download and share this flyer detailing the event. We look forward to seeing you at the State of Inspiritus on October 19!

Warmest Regards,

Rev. John R. Moeller, Jr.
President & CEO
Inspiritus

Day 19: Middle Tennessee Floods & Hurricane Ida Update

Dear Friend,

Inspiritus Response teams are still on the ground in Waverly, Tennessee following last month’s deadly floods, and will serve this community for at least a month. We have now extended our time on the ground to six weeks, thanks to the generous support of donors like you.

We are also on the ground in Louisiana where we are purifying water for communities in need. Our team first arrived in Metairie, LA over Labor Day weekend with our new WOW Cart, which can purify 6,000-10,000 gallons of water per day and we are now providing pure water to communities without.

An Inspiritus volunteer is supporting this homeowner by assessing her home's needs and helping her connect with volunteers from our VOAD partner, Team Rubicon.

WHAT WE ARE DOING (Day 19 Update)

• Volunteer Housing Camp (TN): Inspiritus' Disaster Relief staff and team leads began arriving in Waverly, TN on August 22 and are living at a temporary Inspiritus Volunteer Responder Housing camp.

• Volunteer Reception Center (TN): Our team has established a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) in Humphreys County, in partnership with the County and TEMA. The VRC is operating in front of the Dollar Tree in Waverly, TN. (The purpose of a VRC in a disaster zone is to provide a location where all volunteers who show up to help can register and be assigned to organized projects where they are needed most.)

• Assistance Call Center (TN): The call center has been relocated to operate in the VRC and is being supported by Inspiritus oversight. (A Call Center receives requests for assistance and aid.)

• Distribution Resource Center (TN): Inspiritus teams are helping manage the Distribution Resource Center at the Humphreys County fairgrounds. (A Distribution Resource Center is established as a centralized resource where donated resources are received and redistributed to multiple distribution sites throughout the impacted communities.)

• Debris Removal, Muck & Gut (TN): Our team leads are actively deploying volunteers to provide debris removal and muck & gut services. (Debris Removal: Volunteers use chainsaws, heavy equipment and gloves to remove fallen trees and debris. Muck & Gut: Volunteers wear full body safety gear to enter flooded homes and remove damaged sheetrock, cabinetry, flooring, belongings, etc. These free services often save each homeowner up to $30,000.)

• Demolition (TN): Volunteers are actively deploying to conduct heavy equipment demolition of private properties.

• Water Purification (LA): Volunteers are purifying water in Louisiana with our new WaterStep WOW Cart, which can purify up to 10k gallons a day.

“Without Inspiritus and the leadership they’ve provided to the VOAD [Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster], we could not have responded to this crisis effectively and would have had to muddle through. We are a small jurisdiction with a small public safety team and their [Inspiritus] partnership was essential. We are months ahead of where we would have been, thanks to Inspiritus.” -Officer John Chapman, Incident Commander, Humphreys County Sheriff’s Department

Photo: Tennessee First Lady Maria Lee with Inspiritus' Sherry Buresh and the Humphreys County Assistant Incident Commander and Colleague.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE

Donate to Inspiritus: The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground helping homeowners impacted by the flooding. Your support will provide free debris removal, muck & gut services and property demolition to families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

Donate to The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA: Donations may also be made to support the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA disaster relief efforts (i.e. volunteer mobilization, emotional and spiritual care, material resources to help families, etc.). Donations may be made here.

VOLUNTEER

This work would not be possible without hundreds of HEROIC volunteers, including those who have driven in locally, as well as Team Leads who have come in from around the country and are living in Waverly, TN at our local Volunteer Housing Camp for the month.

Prayerfully consider joining us in Waverly, TN now through October 1. We especially need Team Leads to guide volunteer groups with Muck & Gut and Debris Removal, but all hands are welcome and all skills can be helpful. Please contact Sherry Buresh: sherry.buresh@weinspirit.org.

Volunteer setting up Inspiritus' Water-on-Wheels Mobile Water Cart (W.O.W. Cart) donated by Waterstep.

Volunteers in Waverly, TN, helping to load supplies from the Distribution Resource Center

OUR PARTNERS

Inspiritus' teams could not serve without the support of our partners. The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA has generously provided a $10,000 contribution to help rapidly deploy Inspiritus teams to Waverly, TN. With this support, we are helping manage the Humphreys County Volunteer Reception Center, Volunteer Distribution Center, and the Volunteer Responders Housing Camp, while also training and deploying volunteer teams to assess and provide homeowners with debris removal and muck & gut services.

Partners collaborating with us include:

• The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA

• Lowe's

• International Orthodox Christian Charities

• Mennonite Disaster Services

• Airlink

• Information Technology Disaster Resource Center

• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA)

• Tennessee Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (TN VOAD)

• Toolbank USA

• Humphreys County Emergency Management Office

• Incident Commander & Sheriff's Office

Please continue to join us in prayer for those families impacted, and for the strength of the volunteers serving on the ground now. Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 12: Middle Tennessee Flooding Update

Dear Friend,

Inspiritus Response teams are still on the ground in Waverly, Tennessee following last week’s deadly flash floods, and will serve this community for at least a month.

This work would not be possible without hundreds of HEROIC volunteers, including those who have driven in locally, as well as Team Leads who have come in from around the country and are living at our local Volunteer Housing Camp for the month.

Volunteers from across the country are welcomed and deployed at the Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) operating inside of a grocery store in Waverly, TN. The VRC is managed by Inspiritus in partnership with the County and TEMA.

There is an urgent need for assistance to continue the work of helping the hundreds of families whose homes were flooded last week. Inspiritus is committed to continuing our work in Middle Tennessee, both in communities impacted by last week’s floods, as well as in South Nashville, where the recovery efforts from earlier floods are just getting underway.

Inspiritus Disaster Relief Director, Sherry Buresh, helps us collaborate with other organizations who want to help. Shown here: Veteran owned Houston County Coffee Company from Erin, TN. (@hococoffeecompany)

WHAT WE ARE DOING (Day 12 Update)

• Volunteer Housing Camp: Inspiritus' Disaster Relief staff and team leads began arriving in Waverly, TN on August 22 and are living at a temporary Inspiritus Volunteer Responder Housing camp.

• Volunteer Reception Center: Our team has established a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) in Humphreys County, in partnership with the County and TEMA. The VRC is operating in front of the Dollar Tree in Waverly, TN. (The purpose of a VRC in a disaster zone is to provide a location where all volunteers who show up to help can register and be assigned to organized projects where they are needed most.)

• Assistance Call Center: The call center has been relocated to operate in the VRC and is being supported by Inspiritus oversight. (A Call Center receives requests for assistance and aid.)

• Distribution Resource Center: Inspiritus teams are helping manage the Distribution Resource Center at the Humphreys County fairgrounds. (A Distribution Resource Center is established as a centralized resource where donated resources are received and redistributed to multiple distribution sites throughout the impacted communities.)

• Debris Removal, Muck & Gut: Our team leads are actively deploying volunteers to provide debris removal and muck & gut services. (Debris Removal: Volunteers use chainsaws, heavy equipment and gloves to remove fallen trees and debris. Muck & Gut: Volunteers wear full body safety gear to enter flooded homes and remove damaged sheetrock, cabinetry, flooring, belongings, etc. These free services often save each homeowner up to $30,000.)

• Demolition: Volunteers are actively deploying to conduct heavy equipment demolition of private properties.
  

HOW YOU CAN HELP

DONATE

Donate to Inspiritus: The more funding we raise, the longer our teams can stay on the ground helping homeowners impacted by the flooding. Your support will provide free debris removal, muck & gut services and property demolition to families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

Donate to The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA: Donations may also be made to support the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA disaster relief efforts (i.e. volunteer mobilization, emotional and spiritual care, material resources to help families, etc.). Donations may be made here.

VOLUNTEER

Prayerfully consider joining us in Waverly, TN between September 2-18. Please contact Sherry Buresh: sherry.buresh@weinspirit.org.

An Inspiritus Volunteer meets with a homeowner to assess their needs before sending out a volunteer team to remove flood damaged flooring, sheet rock and cabinetry.

OUR PARTNERS

Inspiritus' teams could not serve without the support of our partners. The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA has generously provided a $10,000 contribution to help rapidly deploy Inspiritus teams to Waverly, TN. With this support, we are helping to setup and manage the Volunteer Reception Center, Volunteer Responders Housing Camp, and training and deploying volunteer teams to provide homeowners with debris removal and muck & gut services.

Additional partners collaborating with us include:

• Lowe's

• International Orthodox Christian Charities

• Mennonite Disaster Services

• Airlink

• Information Technology Disaster Resource Center

• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA)

• Tennessee Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (TN VOAD)

• Toolbank USA

• Humphreys County Emergency Management Office

• Incident Commander & Sheriff's Office

Please continue to join us in prayer for those families impacted, and for the strength of the volunteers serving on the ground now. Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 9: Middle Tennessee Flooding and Hurricane Ida Preparations

Dear Friend,

We are following the path of Hurricane Ida and praying for the families impacted. Strong projections indicate that Hurricane Ida will arrive in Middle Tennessee at 2pm (CT), today. Inspiritus Response teams are still on the ground in Waverly, Tennessee following last week’s deadly flash floods. All operations in Waverly will shut down today at 1:30pm (CT), to allow staff and volunteers to shelter in our base camp, where there is a lower risk of flooding.

All weekend, our teams and thousands of volunteers focused on supporting local mitigation efforts to prepare for the arrival of Ida in Tennessee. Volunteers used heavy machinery and chainsaws to conduct a massive debris removal effort, to prevent debris from last week’s flash floods from causing further damages to the homes and infrastructure already impacted.

There is an urgent need for assistance to continue the work of helping the hundreds of families whose homes were flooded last week. These families are now at risk of a “double disaster” as Hurricane Ida arrives this afternoon. Inspiritus teams are committed to continuing our help in Middle Tennessee, both in communities impacted by last week’s floods, as well as in South Nashville, where the recovery efforts from earlier floods are just getting underway.

As we continue to assess the damages caused by Hurricane Ida, we will update you with ways you can help.

WHAT WE ARE DOING (Day 9 Update)

• Volunteer Housing Camp: Inspiritus' Disaster Relief staff and team leads began arriving in Waverly, TN on August 22 and have setup an Inspiritus Volunteer Responder Housing camp near Waverly, TN

• Volunteer Reception Center: Our team has established a Volunteer Reception Center (VRC) in Humphreys County, in partnership with the County and TEMA. The VRC is operating in front of the Dollar Tree in Waverly, TN. (The purpose of a VRC in a disaster zone is to provide a location where all volunteers who show up to help can register and be assigned to organized projects where they are needed most.)

• Assistance Call Center: The call center has been relocated to operate in the VRC and is being supported by Inspiritus oversight. (A Call Center receives requests for assistance and aid.)

• Distribution Resource Center: Inspiritus teams are helping manage the Distribution Resource Center at the Humphreys County fairgrounds. (A Distribution Resource Center is established as a centralized resource where donated resources are received and redistributed to multiple distribution sites throughout the impacted communities.)

• Debris Removal, Muck & Gut: Our team leads are actively deploying volunteers to provide debris removal and muck & gut services. (Debris Removal: Volunteers use chainsaws, heavy equipment and gloves to remove fallen trees and debris. Muck & Gut: Volunteers wear full body safety gear to enter flooded homes and remove damaged sheetrock, cabinetry, flooring, belongings, etc. These free services often save each homeowner up to $30,000.)

• Demolition: Volunteers are actively deploying to conduct heavy equipment demolition of private properties.
  

  As Hurricane Ida is anticipated to arrive at 2pm (CT) today, our operations will shut-down by 1:30pm (CT) to allow staff and volunteers to shelter in a safe place that is low risk from flooding.
  

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 homeowners impacted by the flooding. Your support will provide free debris removal, muck & gut services and property demolition to help families affected by the storm, especially those who can't recover without help.

Donate to The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA: Donations may also be made to support the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA disaster relief efforts (i.e. volunteer mobilization, emotional and spiritual care, material resources to help families, etc.). Donations may be made here.

VOLUNTEER

Prayerfully consider joining us in the following weeks. Opportunities to volunteer will be communicated soon.

OUR PARTNERS

Inspiritus' teams could not serve without the support of our partners. The Southeastern Synod of the ELCA has generously provided a $10,000 contribution to help rapidly deploy Inspiritus teams to Waverly, TN. With this support, we are helping to setup and manage the Volunteer Reception Center, Volunteer Responders Housing Camp, and training and deploying volunteer teams to provide homeowners with debris removal and muck & gut services.

Additional partners collaborating with us include:

• Airlink

• Information Technology Disaster Resource Center

• Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA)

• Tennessee Volunteer Organizations Active in Disasters (TN VOAD)

• Toolbank USA

• Humphreys County Emergency Management Office

• Incident Commander & Sheriff's Office

Please continue to join us in prayer for those families impacted, those in danger still, and for the strength of the volunteers serving on the ground now.

Sincerely,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Nashville Flood Update: Month #2

Dear Friends,

We've had over 117 volunteers assist our disaster relief efforts in Tennessee following the devastating floods that ravaged the Nashville region in late March.

We're so grateful for the hard work of our volunteer team leaders: Nicholas Rhine, Dave Marsh, and Julie Dimitrov. They're leading amazing volunteers serving with us in partnership with Hands On Nashville.

Volunteer team leader - Nicholas Rhine

Our team has completed:

• 51 jobs
• 25 homes
•150 crisis clean-up calls
• 298 volunteer days
• 1,035.5 volunteer hours

Overall, our disaster relief work has impacted 99 individuals in the Nashville region, and we have 10+ homes in the queue. We estimate there may be 30+ more additional homes in need of our services in the month ahead.

To see coverage of our work and collaboration with Hands On Nashville–watch a News4Nashville clip here.

Volunteer clearing debris from flood waters

Tennessee's flood event left six people dead, hundreds rescued from flooded cars and homes, and extensive damage to businesses and homes. It is marked as the worst flood in the last decade.

Where:

Inspiritus has been on the ground in South Nashville for flood survivors and leading volunteer teams to provide free muck and gut services.

Who:

Our disaster relief staff are working closely with our partners: Hands On Nashville, Nashville and Tennessee VOADs, and the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA.

What:

Inspiritus is providing free muck and gut services to flood-damaged homes throughout South Nashville. As temperatures rise, waterlogged flooring and walls will exhibit rapid mold growth – which often poses long-term health risks for the residents in the home.

Personal protective equipment (PPE), such a Tyvek suits and N95 respirators masks, are crucial in protecting our volunteer teams as they remove debris from impacted households. Our crews are currently providing the following services:

• volunteer team management

• muck & gut

• mold sanitation

• mitigation

• chainsaw

• debris removal

• sort & salvage

HOW TO HELP:

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

To volunteer in Nashville, please sign up through Hands On Nashville HERE

DONATE TODAY: click here or checks can be mailed to:

Inspiritus
Attn: Disaster Response
731 Peachtree Street NE, Suite B
Atlanta, GA 30308

We're grateful to be working closely with our local community partners. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking below. We’re preparing to extend our response in Nashville for up to another month to make sure every homeowner receives the help they need during this stage of their recovery. Your support makes this possible.

Thank you for your continued prayers and generous support.

Kind Regards,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 20: Southeastern Tornadoes & Flood Response Update

Dear Friends,

Our disaster relief efforts in Georgia and Tennessee are still going strong following the devastating tornadoes and floods that ravaged the Southeast at the end of March.

We're so fortunate and grateful to be working closely with our local community partners, especially the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA, however we continue to need your support to keep our teams on the ground and well-equipped to make a difference.

Inspiritus’ Kevin Burgess led a group of Home Depot volunteers as they removed debris from homes impacted by these catastrophic tornadoes.

Below is how we're helping survivors in Newnan, Georgia and South Nashville, Tennessee:

GEORGIA:

Where:

Our teams are currently on the ground in Newnan. Special thanks to the Go Church for hosting us at one of their properties, the former Palmetto Church of God. The Inspiritus volunteer and housing operation center is located at 84 Smith Circle, Newnan GA 30265. We have space and capacity for additional volunteers to be housed safely at this location, so please consider joining us.

Who:

As of today, our Inspiritus staff and volunteers have completed:

• Over 215 volunteer hours

• 60 assessments

• 10 saw jobs

• 12 debris removal projects

What:

Inspiritus is collaborating with local churches and partners, including ITDRC, and the Siren Project to prepare to stay a few more weeks. We're supporting local families with damage and needs assessment coordination, debris removal, chainsaw and heavy equipment services, roof tarping, emotional and spiritual care, and other assistance as needed.

Our special thanks goes out to Home Depot and the Home Depot Foundation for their continued generosity and support as we empower disaster survivors on their journey from surviving to thriving!

#NewnanStrong

TENNESSEE:

Tennessee's flood event left six people dead, hundreds rescued from flooded cars and homes, and extensive damages to businesses and homes. It is marked as the worst flood in the last decade.

Where:

Inspiritus has been on the ground in South Nashville since Monday evening, completing damage assessments for flood survivors. Special thanks to Christ Lutheran Church in Nashville for hosting us for this effort.

Who:

Our disaster relief staff are working closely with our partners: Hands On Nashville, TN VOAD, and the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA.

What:

Our crews are currently assessing and preparing to provide the following services:

• muck & gut

• mold sanitation

• mitigation

• chainsaw

• debris removal

• sort & salvage

HOW TO HELP:

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

If you'd like to volunteer in Newnan, Georgia, please contact Sabrina More: sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

To volunteer in Nashville, please sign up through Hands On Nashville HERE

DONATE TODAY: click here or checks can be mailed to:

Inspiritus
Attn: Disaster Response
731 Peachtree Street NE, Suite B
Atlanta, GA 30308

If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking below. Thank you for your continued prayers and generous support.

Kind Regards,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 11: Southeastern Tornadoes & Flood Response Update

Dear Friends,

Inspiritus Disaster Response teams are providing relief in Newnan, Georgia and Middle Tennessee following the devastating southeastern tornadoes and floods that ravaged five states at the end of March.

Thousands of individuals have been impacted by these tragic weather events, and our hearts go out to each and every one of them.

Click the image below to see how you can help empower the survivors of the Southeastern Tornadoes & Floods:

Below is how we're helping survivors in Newnan, Georgia and Middle Tennessee:

GEORGIA:

Where:

Our teams are currently on the ground in Newnan. Special thanks to the Go Church for hosting us at one of their properties, the former Palmetto Church of God. The Inspiritus volunteer and housing operation center is located at 84 Smith Circle, Newnan GA 30265. We have space and capacity for additional volunteers to be housed safely at this location, so please consider joining us.

Additional thanks to Community Incident Response Foundation for loaning us their Shower Trailer for this effort, and Blue Diamond for loaning their skid loader.

Who:

Since Tuesday, Inspiritus has been training county staff and volunteers to conduct Damage Assessments across the region. Inspiritus staff and volunteers are on the ground now leading volunteer response teams with debris removal efforts. To date, 1700+ homes have been reported as affected by the tornadoes, and the count rises daily.

What:

Inspiritus is collaborating with local churches and partners, including Home Depot, the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA, ITDRC, and the Siren Project to prepare to stay in the weeks ahead. We're supporting local families with damage and needs assessment coordination, debris removal, chainsaw and heavy equipment services, roof tarping, public road clearing, emotional and spiritual care, and other assistance as needed.

#NewnanStrong

Inspiritus Volunteers on the ground

TENNESSEE:

Tennessee's flood event left six people dead, hundreds rescued from flooded cars and homes, and extensive damages to businesses and homes. It is marked as the worst flood in the last decade.

Where:

Inspiritus disaster relief services have been requested to assist in flood response and recovery efforts in the Middle Tennessee region.

Who:

Our disaster relief staff are working closely with local Emergency Management officials, the Tennessee Emergency Management Agency (TEMA), the Tennessee VOAD, the SE Synod of the ELCA, and our local partners to assess and identify ways to help. In the weeks ahead, Inspiritus will be leading efforts to serve outside of the Nashville area in communities that haven't received sufficient assistance.

What:

Five Inspiritus volunteers are currently helping with the crisis cleanup phone lines, helping to process requests for assistance from local homeowners.

We are continuing to work with our partners to identify local unmet needs and will provide updates soon.

HOW TO HELP:

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

If you'd like to volunteer in Newnan, Georgia or Middle Tennessee, please contact Sabrina More: sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

DONATE TODAY: click here or checks can be mailed to:

Inspiritus
Attn: Disaster Response
731 Peachtree Street NE, Suite B
Atlanta, GA 30308

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking below. Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee are in our prayers during this unprecedented time of disaster. Thank you for your prayers and generous support.

Kind Regards,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 7: Southeastern Tornadoes & Flood Response Update

Dear Friends,

Inspiritus Disaster Response teams are providing relief in Newnan, Georgia and Middle Tennessee following the devastating southeastern tornadoes and floods that ravaged five states last week.

Thousands of individuals have been impacted by these tragic weather events, and our hearts go out to each and every one of them. The upcoming Easter holiday is a sacred time usually spent with family and friends, however, many of the individuals and families in these regions have lost everything.

Click on image below to see WSB-TV news coverage of Inspiritus' efforts in Newnan:

*Also, read more about Inspiritus and work we're doing on the ground in the latest issue of the Newnan-Times Herald

Below is how we're helping survivors:

GEORGIA:

Where:

The Newnan, GA tornado was one mile wide, and had a 170 mph maximum wind speed.

Our teams are currently on the ground in Newnan, GA where we have set up an operations office at the Coweta County Emergency Operations Center. The University of West Georgia has kindly provided 34 dormitory rooms, as well as, dinner for our volunteers during this response.

Who:

Since Tuesday, Inspiritus disaster relief lead construction manager, Kevin Burgess, along with a group of experts, have been training volunteers to conduct Home Damage Assessments across the region:

"It's a needs assessment training–we're training individuals to go out, knock on doors and ask questions of what is needed, how we can help, and then we're taking that information, bringing it back here, and we're using that information to get the proper volunteers and the proper resources to the right place."

– Kevin Burgess

What:

In Newnan, GA, Inspiritus is collaborating with local churches and partners, including the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA and Home Depot, to prepare to stay in the weeks ahead. We're supporting local families with damage and needs assessment coordination, management of the volunteer reception center, debris removal, chainsaw and heavy equipment services, roof tarping, public road clearing, emotional and spiritual care, and other assistance as needed.

Kevin Burgess with Pastor Terry Lemons, Pastor of Newnan Chapel UMC, the congregation that hosted our training for all damage assessors.

TENNESSEE:

Tennessee's flood event last Saturday has left six people dead, hundreds rescued from flooded cars and homes, and extensive damages to businesses and homes. It is marked as the worst flood in the last decade.

Where:

Inspiritus disaster relief services have been requested to assist in flood response efforts in the Middle Tennessee region.

Who:

Our disaster relief staff are working closely with local Emergency Management officials, the SE Synod of the ELCA, and our local partners to assess and identify ways to help.

What:

Inspiritus is providing remote volunteers to help with the crisis cleanup phone lines and intake requests for assistance from local homeowners.

We are working with partners to identify local unmet needs and will provide updates soon.

Inspiritus' Kevin Burgess coordinating volunteers on the ground

ALABAMA:

The Birmingham, Alabama tornado destroyed homes and lives, causing major damage to communities across Central Alabama.

Special thanks to John Boettner, the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA, Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church, and the many generous individuals and groups who helped host our volunteers last week.

HOW TO HELP:

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

If you'd like to volunteer in the Southeastern Tornadoes and Flood response efforts, please contact Sabrina More: sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

Inspiritus is coordinating volunteers from local communities and afar. People are contacting us from all over the country, and we have volunteers flying in from as far away as Washington and Michigan to help out on the ground. Volunteers are even helping remotely from their homes, supporting Crisis Cleanup requests in Nashville, as well as other opportunities across all three states.

DONATE TODAY: click here

Checks can be mailed to:

Inspiritus
Attn: Disaster Response
731 Peachtree Street NE
Suite B
Atlanta, GA 30308

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking below. Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee are in our prayers during this unprecedented time of disaster. Thank you for your prayers and generous support.

Kind Regards,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 5: Southeastern Tornadoes & Flood Response Update

Dear Friends,

Last Thursday, a wave of tornadoes rolled across five southern states, leaving at least six people dead and inflicting heavy damage in its wake. Saturday evening, Nashville, Tennessee experienced the fourth worst flood in the state’s history. This flood has taken the lives of six people, and left hundreds coping with flooded cars, apartments, and homes.

Inspiritus has been called in to help in Birmingham, Alabama; Newnan, Georgia; and Nashville, Tennessee. We've been assembling our three responses and want to give an update on the progress in each of these regions:

ALABAMA:

The Birmingham, Alabama tornado destroyed homes and lives, causing major damage to communities across Central Alabama.

Where:

Inspiritus has set up volunteer operations and a housing station at Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Birmingham, AL.

Who:

From this site, we will be providing volunteer response services to the communities impacted (such as Pelham and Columbiana).

What:

In Birmingham, we’re coordinating with Southeastern Synod of ELCA and several congregations who are generously providing meals and airport transportation for our disaster response volunteers.

Our disaster relief volunteers are providing free debris removal, chainsaw and heavy equipment services, roof tarping, public road clearing, and other assistance as needed.

GEORGIA:

Where:

The Newnan, GA tornado was one mile wide, and had a 170 mph maximum wind speed.

Our teams are currently on the ground in Newnan, GA where we have set up an operations office at the Coweta County Emergency Operations Center. The University of West Georgia has kindly provided 34 dormitory rooms, as well as, dinner for our volunteers during this response.

Who:

Inspiritus staff, Kevin Burgess, and volunteers are helping officials setup and open the local Volunteer Reception Center. Staff have begun to train local county staff and volunteers to conduct Home Damage Assessments across the region. We will assist with coordinating all spontaneous volunteer efforts and support for local families through this center.

What:

In Newnan, GA, Inspiritus is collaborating with local churches and partners, including the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA to prepare to stay on the ground in the weeks ahead to support local families with debris removal and emotional and spiritual care.

Our disaster relief volunteers are providing free debris removal, chainsaw and heavy equipment services, roof tarping, public road clearing, and other assistance as needed.

Yesterday, volunteers brought in much needed tools, provided courtesy of the Atlanta Community Tool Bank.

TENNESSEE:

Torrential rains slammed into the Nashville region Saturday night, causing rivers and creeks throughout 4 counties to flood. This flood event has left six people dead, hundreds rescued from flooded cars and homes, and extensive damages to businesses and homes. It is marked as the worst flood in the last decade.

Where:

Inspiritus disaster relief services have been requested to assist in flood response efforts in the Middle Tennessee region.

Who:

Our disaster relief staff are working closely with local Emergency Management officials, the SE Synod of the ELCA, and our local partners to assess and identify ways to help.

What:

Inspiritus is providing remote volunteers to help with the crisis cleanup phone lines and intake requests for assistance from local homeowners.

We are working with partners to identify local unmet needs and will provide updates soon.

HOW TO HELP:

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

If you'd like to volunteer in the Southeastern Tornadoes and Flood response efforts, please contact Sabrina More: sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

Inspiritus is coordinating volunteers from local communities and afar. People are contacting us from all over the country, and we have volunteers flying in from as far away as Washington and Michigan to help out on the ground. Volunteers are even helping remotely from their homes, supporting Crisis Cleanup requests in Nashville, as well as other opportunities across all three states.

DONATE TODAY: click here

Checks can be mailed to:

Inspiritus
Attn: Disaster Response
731 Peachtree Street NE
Suite B
Atlanta, GA 30308

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking below. Georgia, Alabama, and Tennessee are in our prayers during this unprecedented time of disaster. Thank you for your prayers and generous support.

Kind Regards,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 1: Preparing to Help After Deadly Tornadoes

A wave of tornadoes rolled across five southern states on Thursday, leaving at least six people dead and inflicting heavy damage in its wake. Fourteen tornadoes alone were reported in Alabama, according to the National Weather Service. All in all, there were 22 tornado reports across Georgia, Alabama, Tennessee, Kentucky and Mississippi. (CNN)

Inspiritus stands ready to help as part of our ongoing commitment to assisting impacted communities with basic needs, stability and safety, and we are currently in touch with on-the-ground authorities and partners in Alabama, Georgia and Tennessee.

Image c/o Patch/Alabama

Your prayers and donations are critical during this time. We could not do the work we do without your generosity. Financial donations to Inspiritus now, or in the earliest days of a response, support us in deploying a team of staff and skilled volunteers to assess need and establish a response program on the ground as soon as it is safe to do so.

Our disaster relief teams are preparing to help lead volunteers in debris removal, chain-sawing, roof tarping, and other supports to damaged homes and properties. Please consider volunteering to help. We will update you soon with details of where and when we could use your assistance.

To stay on top of our latest information, please follow us on our website weinspirit.org and on all our social channels found at the bottom of this email.

We will continue to keep you informed on any plans for an organized disaster response as they develop. Our hearts are heavy for those impacted by these terrible tornadoes. Please join us in prayer for their swift recovery.

With Gratitude,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Day 18: Hear from Disaster Volunteers on the Ground Now

Volunteers on the Ground in Tennessee

WHAT WE ARE DOING

Three weeks ago, Winter Storm Uri created widespread destruction in Overton County, Tennessee. Inspiritus disaster response teams have been on the ground since the storm, providing residents with free chainsaw services to their homes and property.

So far we've completed:

• 104+ hours of heavy equipment operation

• Over 140 project site assessments

• Over 111 jobs

• Over 1,700 volunteer hours

This rapid response effort would not be possible without the support from our partners: Airbnb, Airlink, Home Depot, Overton County, and Christian Emergency Network.

HOW YOU CAN HELP

VOLUNTEER WITH US!

If you would like to help empower disaster survivors on their journey from surviving to thriving, come volunteer with us.

We have 2 long-term recovery programs in progress in Southwest Georgia and Cookeville, Tennessee.

We invite you to join us as we help our neighbors recover from the devastating aftermath of Hurricane Michael and the 2020 Middle Tennessee Tornadoes.

• Due to a lack of volunteers in Southwest Georgia, Inspiritus is having to outsource work to contractors…which allows us to help fewer people.

• A lack of volunteers also means that it is taking longer to bring these people home!

If you'd like to volunteer in these recovery efforts in Southwest Georgia and Middle Tennessee, please contact Sabrina More, our Lead Disaster Case Manager / Disaster Relief Volunteer Manager at sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

We will continue to share updates from the ground as our teams assist those impacted by Winter Storm Uri. In the meantime, please follow our social media channels @weareinspiritus for the latest news.

Thank you for your donations. If you haven't given yet, please consider giving today by clicking on the button below. Through your generosity and support, we're bringing hope to the people who need it most.

Gratefully,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Inspiritus is also partnering with Overton-Pickett Emergency Communications to host a Community Cleanup Day on Saturday, March 13th:

We will be checking in volunteers and handling the logistics to efficiently assign project site work orders. If you live in the Overton County surrounding area and would like to join us, please contact Sabrina More, our Lead Disaster Case Manager / Disaster Relief Volunteer Manager at sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

The Middle Tennessee Tornado: One Year Ago Today

TODAY IS THE ONE YEAR ANNIVERSARY OF THE MIDDLE TENNESSEE TORNADO

In the early hours of March 3, 2020, the Middle Tennessee Region suffered a deadly tornado that left 25 dead and many homes destroyed. Our Nashville property at St. Paul’s Lutheran Church was spared; however our Germantown and North Nashville neighbors suffered significant damages. We want to take a moment and reflect on the one year anniversary of this disaster.

THE NEED WAS GREAT

North Nashville/Germantown suffered a direct hit to homes and businesses. Initial surveys indicated EF-3 tornado damage in East Nashville, Nashville’s Donelson neighborhood and in Mt. Juliet, a town about 20 miles east of Nashville.

Communities inside and outside of metro Nashville were devastated. Putnam County emergency officials confirmed 18 of the 25 Nashville tornado fatalities occurred in Cookeville, TN.

Inspiritus disaster response teams immediately set up a feeding station for residents in the Nashville area, and sent in volunteer teams for debris removal, chainsawing, and roof tarping.

We worked closely with the Southeastern Synod of the ELCA and other faith partners to provide a daily lunch and access to food and water supplies for local residents and responders.

Local emergency management needed Inspiritus' support with the rapid influx of volunteer and non-profit agency responders coming into the area, so we helped lead the coordination of thousands of volunteers in this response.

At that same time this tornado hit, Middle Tennessee (and the rest of the United States) was hit with another disaster: the coronavirus pandemic. Not only was COVID a danger to these insecure neighborhoods, there was growing concern about the need for hunger relief (especially individuals with disabilities, health risks, low-incomes, and job losses).

Shelter in place orders caused an additional hurdle to the response, but thanks to the determination and perseverance of our staff and volunteers, we were one of the few food pantries to remain open continuously in the Nashville region last year. And, our disaster response volunteers continued to help while following proper CDC guidelines and safety measures.

HOW WE HELPED

• Provided over 1,000 COVID-19 Prevention Kits

• Served 1,909 individuals through our Nashville Food Pantry

• Completed 34,429.50 volunteer hours

• Completed 116 jobs, and 95 home repairs

• Cleared 7 1/2 miles of roads for homeowners’ access

• 5 acres were cleared for a community swimming pool

• Sponsored 204 active family gardens for families in low-income communities

WE'RE STILL WORKING

Today, Inspiritus continues to accompany families who have yet to recover from the Middle Tennessee tornado. With the support of partners like Lutheran Disaster Response, Thrivent, and the Community Foundation of Middle Tennessee, we have teams on the ground now helping repair dozens of homes in Cookeville. We are also currently leading complete home rebuild projects for several families whose homes were destroyed.

Even though a year has passed, some families are still unable to return to their homes. Families like the Hardy family. In case you missed it, watch how we’re restoring hope for the Hardys one year later in this special news report.

This work is only possible because of partners like you. Please consider donating to the Inspiritus disaster relief efforts so we can continue to help more families like the Hardys.

In addition to this recovery effort, we currently have response teams on the ground in neighboring Overton County, TN, and have established a volunteer camp at the local Police Academy. Please join us if you're available! Food and housing is provided. Please email Sabrina More, our Lead Disaster Case Manager / Disaster Relief Volunteer Manager, if you're interested in volunteering at sabrina.more@weinspirit.org

We ask that you join us in prayer for these families and volunteers as we work to empower those still suffering on their path from surviving to thriving.

Gratefully,

Virginia Spencer
Chief Development Officer
Inspiritus

Our Middle Tennessee Tornado Response was made possible through partnerships with: