“We learned many lessons in the aftermath of Superstorm Sandy,” recalls the Rev. Cricket Denton, Volunteers Coordinator for GNJ’s Disaster Response Team and A Future with Hope. “Arguably, one of the most important things we learned was how underprepared we were for a disaster.
“We never know when a natural disaster is going to strike,” she adds, “so we need to do as much as we can during ‘blue skies’ to ensure that we can help as much as possible—not if but when the next storm hits.”
For that reason, Denton is hoping more people will register for what could be one of the most critically important training events of the year: GNJ’s Early Response Team (ERT) training for disaster response volunteers on Saturday, July 22, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m., at the conference’s Mission Resource Center in Neptune. Lunch is included, but so is potentially life-changing preparation to serve others who suffer in the wake of disasters.
The training, which costs $25, will help volunteers learn the basics of early disaster response, including roof tarping, cleaning out damaged homes, offering spiritual and emotional care, team protocols and more. Those who complete this training will receive credentials, including an ERT badge. Learn more and register.
“If you have been to the beach this year you may have noticed that the ocean temperatures are warmer than expected,” said Denton. “In fact, the water temperatures have been about 1.8 degrees higher than average. Historically speaking, warmer ocean temperatures fuel a more active hurricane season. On average each year, there are 14 tropical storms, half of which become hurricanes. This year, Colorado State University has predicted an increase in storms this year with 18 named storms, with 9 of those becoming hurricanes.
“The time to prepare is now,” she emphasizes. “Hurricane season started in June and will run through November. It only takes one storm to make a monumental impact on our communities. We have to stop being REactive and start being PROactive. ERT training is where we begin.”
Please register now, and give just a day to gain knowledge that may serve you and others for a lifetime.