Volunteering

When disaster struck the small town of Holden, Massachusetts, it was during one of the coldest months of the year. A treacherous ice storm had brought the town to a halt. With electric thermostats rendered useless, many families were left to huddle together for warmth as temperatures dipped below freezing.   In this great time of need, the people of Holden turned to Rebecca Evanoff, and to no one’s surprise, she was more than ready to help.

Karen Benson continues to be instrumental in helping the state of Missouri recover from tornadoes, flooding, and severe weather – and she donates her time and expetise for free. Karen has a passion to serve those in need at their most vulnerable times after disaster strikes, and she is a leader in providing strong disaster case management training across the state. Karen, who lives in Mount Vernon, Missouri, has been a key member of the Missouri State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster movement for many years, serving in multiple roles.

Karen Benson is a key member in the Missouri State Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster. She also is a case advocate with the United Methodist Committee on Relief.   Not only does Karen have a passion for helping populations at their greatest time of need, after disaster strikes, she also helps the state of Missouri develop a strong disaster case management training platform, which aids individuals to serve disaster areas efficiently and effectively.

When dealing with the well being of the community, Adner Marcelin has no boundaries. A friend once told him that he could not invest his personal finances in his community. He simply said, “If it will help one person improve their situation, then it improves the community that I am a part of. That’s money well spent.” Adner, 22, strives to make a positive influence in his community. He has mentored young people with Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Big Bend and the NAACP Youth Council to make a difference with others.