The projects and programs of TOV are made possible by our outstanding partner agencies. We are recognizing them periodically in our agency spotlight. This month, we are highlighting NECHAMA – Jewish Response to Disaster. NECHAMA is a volunteer organization providing clean-up and recovery assistance to homes and business affected by natural disaster.

We asked Mariana Micheli, Disaster Response Manager, a couple questions about the agency and their involvement with volunteers.

1.     What is your agency mission?

NECHAMA – Jewish Response to Disaster is a 501(c)(3) volunteer organization providing natural disaster response, rebuild, and preparedness training services nationwide. Guided by the Jewish values of Tikkun Olam, repairing the world, performing good acts, and helping the stranger, NECHAMA offers a helping hand in the spirit of goodwill and creating mutual respect and understanding among people. Our work is focused on at risk, and low and lower income communities who are often uninsured or underinsured for disasters.

2.   How do volunteers help impact your agency?

Volunteers are the driving force of NECHAMA. Not only do they serve in the everyday manual labor involved in getting those suffering after a disaster back in their homes, but they also act as the embodiment of our mission. Volunteers are our storytellers, bridging the gap between disaster communities and their own as they share their experience.

3.  Why do you like working with TOV in particular?

TOV has worked with us on many projects over the past six years, and have earned a reputation of being committed, hardworking and enthusiastic. Certainly, they lived up to this standard when they joined us here in Puerto Rico. From the moment they set boots on the ground, their high energy and team spirit lifted those around them.

The work here in Puerto Rico is tough. While there, the TOV team  moved three truckloads of supplies and roofing materials in torrential downpour and spent long hours working on concrete roofs in scorching heat. They worked in difficult circumstances, in homes and communities torn apart by the hurricane. We had volunteers of varying ages and experience, regardless each and every single volunteer expressed unwavering determination as they worked alongside us to improve the conditions of people living here in Puerto Rico. NECHAMA team members fondly remember TOV volunteers for the fun, laughter and positivity they brought to the group. There were many friendships formed over the course of the week.

Both TOV and NECHAMA share the mission of Tikkun Olam, a concept that is clear to see in practice when we work together. The passion, positivity and enthusiasm TOV volunteers brought to our project was truly inspiring. We’d like to express our gratitude to all members of TOV and eagerly await an opportunity to work together again in the near future.

We want to thank NECHAMA for all the incredible work they do and look forward to collaborating with them in the future!