7 Ways to Aid Tornado Relief Efforts

 

If you want to plan a volunteer vacation to assist with tornado relief efforts, consider starting with one of these organizations.

1. Operation Blessing International.

Now working almost exclusively in Joplin, Mo., Operation Blessing (OBI) is looking for teams of two or more to help with cleanup. Volunteers are asked to provide their own transportation to job sites, and OBI covers lodging, food, tools, work order coordination and management.

2. American Red Cross.

Since March 31, the Red Cross has responded to 42 large disasters in the United States, including tornadoes, wildfires and floods. (This graphic [pdf] displays all the states where the Red Cross is currently working.) To get involved or donate to the cause, visit RedCross.org or call your local Red Cross office.

3. Hands On Birmingham.

This Central Alabama volunteer resource organization lists daily disaster relief projects and information about how to get involved. Visit HandsOnBirmingham.org and click on "Disaster Relief" for upcoming projects.

4. State Emergency Management Agencies.

If you want to help out in a specific state, contact that state's Emergency Management Agency. Many also offer online information about needed help and instructions for how to get involved.

5. God's Prayer Center and Urban Homeworks.

Based in Minneapolis, these nonprofit agencies continue to assist with disaster relief and recovery and need volunteers. Visit the God's Prayer Center and Urban Homeworks online.

6. Toomer's for Tuscaloosa.

This organization (pictured top), focused on helping the hard-hit city of Tuscaloosa, Ala., continues to update its website with current needs, including volunteer labor and donations. The site also has donation coordinators in almost every state who can facilitate shipping donations of needed goods to the people of Tuscaloosa.

7. Presbyterian Disaster Assistance.

The Presbyterian Church of America responded to disasters in 14 different states through local congregations. The national website offers information about where work is underway and what help is needed. Many other churches, religious groups and nonprofits also are assisting, so check with your own local organizations, too.

 

Read more: Take a Trip to Help Tornado Victims