Christ is Risen!
Since the start of 2025, the US Program has been focused on increasing capacity to respond to disasters. In January, we were fortunate to add a new Emergency Response truck to our fleet, and we are pleased to share that a shower/laundry trailer is currently in production, both of which will increase our ability to serve communities and support volunteers in the field. Behind the scenes, we’ve been fine-tuning our protocols and workflows to make sure we’re ready to respond quickly and effectively when disasters strike.
While adding new tools and improving systems is a big step forward, none of this work is possible without volunteers. You are the heart of the work here at home in the United States, and a dedicated and active field volunteer base is imperative to responding faster and reaching farther. If you’ve been thinking about getting involved again—or for the very first time—now is a great time to step forward. As you will see in the updates below, there is important work happening and plenty of opportunities for you to come out and join in!
In the Risen Lord,
Archdeacon Paul Zaharas
US Country Representative
On The Ground
Hurricanes Helene and Milton Action Teams
IOCC is continuing Hurricanes Helene and Milton response efforts in Florida and Tennessee. Rebuilding is in full swing! This year, IOCC has hosted more than ten volunteer teams, as well as an AmeriCorps NCCC team, who have helped repair over 35 homes. Volunteers have learned how to lay flooring, cut and install drywall, mud and tape walls, and install doors and trim. Each task a volunteer completes brings homeowners one step closer to restoring their homes to pre-storm condition.
Now, six months into IOCC’s 24-month commitment to the Helene-Milton project, great progress has been made. Volunteers are an essential part of continuing this success. No prior knowledge is required to join an IOCC Action Team, just a willingness to learn! IOCC has skilled Action Team Leaders on site to teach you everything you need to complete the tasks at hand.
To learn more about volunteering with IOCC’s Action Teams in Florida and Tennessee, please complete the Action Team interest form at iocc.org/actionteam. You can volunteer as an individual or assemble a team to volunteer together. Please contact Krista Hamann at volunteercoordinator@iocc.org or 667.331.9812 with any questions.
LA Wildfires Frontline Team
In response to the recent wildfires in Los Angeles County, California, five teams of IOCC Frontline volunteers stepped up to provide Emotional and Spiritual Care (ESC) for survivors and responders. In addition, they supported the area parishes serving those affected by the fires. Whether assisting with parish donations distribution or offering a compassionate presence to survivors, their work brought hope and stability during a time of crisis, and helped build resilience after the fires.
To learn more about IOCC’s Frontline program or to apply to join the roster, visit iocc.org/frontliners.
Upcoming Volunteer Opportunities
Home Builds
With IOCC’s two-year commitment in response to the recent Hurricanes, volunteer opportunities are now being scheduled through the end of 2025. To schedule a team, or to indicate your interest in bringing a team in 2026, please contact Krista Hamann at volunteercoordinator@iocc.org or 667.331.9812. For general Action Team registration and to receive information for future opportunities, please visit iocc.org/actionteam.
Awareness Events
Interested in planning your own event to raise awareness about IOCC? Get one on the calendar today! We’d love to help you organize, so please contact IOCC’s Outreach team at 410.243.9820 or outreach@iocc.org.
Check for updates at iocc.org/events. And thank you for partnering with us!
- May 3 – Wyckoff, NJ: Taste of North Jersey to Benefit IOCC
- May 3 – Milwaukee, WI: Tailgate Event to Benefit IOCC
- May 3-4 – Pittsburgh, PA: Team IOCC @ Pittsburgh Marathon Weekend
- May 6 – Pittsburgh, PA: Open House
- May 8 – Chicago, IL: 33rd Annual IOCC Chicago Grand Banquet
- May 19 – Cleveland, OH: IOCC Cleveland 33rd Annual Banquet
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