Restoring Dignity and Hope with Professionalism and Compassion Volunteers Rally to Serve in the Wake of Devastating Winds
Compassion in Action: A Story of Neighborly Love Among the many touching stories of service, two elderly neighbors—aged 88 and 91—faced an especially daunting challenge. A massive pine tree had fallen between their yards, blocking their access and creating a hazardous situation. A nearby company had quoted an exorbitant price, requiring a crane to remove the tree, which neither neighbor could afford. But the LERT volunteers stepped in, cutting down the tree with care and precision, removing it from the property at no cost. As a final touch, they raked the yards, clearing debris and leaving a clean, safe space behind. The elderly women expressed heartfelt gratitude, overwhelmed by the kindness and generosity shown to them.
A Blessing to Serve: Bringing Relief in Christ’s Name Through these selfless acts of service, the LERT team not only cleared fallen trees but also brought the light of hope to these neighbors, many of whom had nowhere else to turn. In a world filled with hardship, the LERT volunteers’ willingness to serve in the name of the Lord brought comfort and healing in a tangible way. It’s a powerful reminder of the difference compassion can make when we offer it freely, especially in times of crisis. How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training (more details below), donating to the LCC Disaster Relief Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers. Responding to Devastation in Valparaiso, IN On Sunday, March 30, the town of Valparaiso, Indiana, was struck by 90 mph straight-line winds that toppled 110 utility poles, tore through rooftops, downed trees, and left residents without power for days. In the aftermath, Lutheran Church Charities (LCC) was contacted by Immanuel and Christ Lutheran Churches to aid their communities.
Another stop brought the team to the home of a single mom and piano teacher, whose studio had been rendered inaccessible by three large uprooted spruce trees. Unable to afford help, she prayed for a miracle. Through a recommendation from one of her student’s parents, she found LCC. Within hours, the trees and root balls were gone, her yard cleaned and raked, and a cross was cut into the stump of one of the trees. Moved to tears, she said, “This cross will always remind me to trust God to provide for my needs and that He sent angels here to take care of me.”  Rebuilding in Tryon, North Carolina Farther south, another team served at Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, NC, still recovering from the devastation of Hurricane Helene. Though the congregation had hoped to return to their sanctuary by Easter, there remains much to be done.
 Restoring a Beloved Camp in Linville, NC Meanwhile, a small but determined team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL traveled to Camp Linn Haven in Linville, NC. The LCMS summer camp sustained extensive damage to its chapel, kitchen, main hall, 18 cabins, and bridge due to Hurricane Helene. Volunteers assisted with hanging drywall, repairing siding, staining, painting, and general storm cleanup. Although there’s more work to be done, their efforts made meaningful progress in preparing the camp for future campers and ensuring the facility remains a safe and joyful space for all.  Gratitude for Hands that Serve Lutheran Church Charities extends heartfelt thanks to the many LERT volunteers who offered their time, talent, and compassion in these recent deployments:
The Southeastern District has continued opportunities to serve at several locations in North Carolina. Please consider volunteering your time and talents to help those in need recover from Hurricane Helene. How You Can HelpLERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers.
 Answering the Call to Serve in Missouri
Bringing Aid to Arkansas Communities
Gratitude and Faith Amidst the Storm  The homeowner, deeply moved by the volunteers’ efforts, shared how the Lord had watched over his family during the storm. With heartfelt gratitude, he thanked the team for their hard work and compassion. Through their service, these LERT volunteers embodied Christ’s love in action, bringing physical relief and spiritual encouragement to those in need. We continue to pray for all affected by these storms and for the dedicated volunteers who answered the call to serve. Rebuilding at two North Carolina sites  Elsewhere in the U.S., a team of 20 LCC LERT volunteers, mostly from Bethany Lutheran Church in Naperville, IL, is deployed to Trinity Lutheran Church in Tryon, N.C. They are helping to rebuild the church after massive flooding from Hurricane Helene. The Trinity congregation hopes to return to their building in time for Easter Sunday. On the first day of work, the team helped clear the crawl space, remove floor tiles, build shelves, and paint bathrooms. A few of the team members (pictured at right) dug a trench to help lay pipes to divert water. They will be working hard to help Trinity reach it goal of worshipping on Resurrection Day! In another part of the Tarheel State, a team from Cross Lutheran Church in Yorkville, IL, (pictured below) is serving at Camp Linn Haven, N.C. They are also helping with rebuilding after Hurricane Helene destruction, doing drywalling, siding, staining, and cleanup. They are making progress to restore the camp for future guests.  How You Can Help
LERT volunteers make a difference in times of disaster, but there is always a need for more hands and hearts willing to serve. If you feel called to support this mission, consider registering for the upcoming LERT training, donating to the LCC Disaster Response Fund, or keeping affected communities in your prayers. TWENTY LCC VOLUNTEERS HELP REBUILD GRACE LUTHERAN IN ST. PETERSBURG, FL, AFTER HURRICANE DAMAGE3/5/2025
The team members shared their experiences while working at Grace Lutheran:
 "We poured our hearts into the work because we wanted to help in any way we could. We painted 40 or more outside classroom doors, 4 bathrooms, cafeteria walls, narthex, and walls between classrooms. We bought plants to put out in front of the church, hoping to make the congregation bring back smiles on their faces." "Witnessing older students mentor younger ones and hearing the children's joyful songs during chapel was a beautiful experience. Each moment was infused with prayer, reminding everyone of God's guiding presence in our efforts. The experience left everyone with full hearts, a renewed sense of purpose, and a shared belief in the transformative impact of serving others through Christ's teachings."  The team was grateful for the opportunity to serve both the church and the school. As they watched the team at work, the students frequently expressed their gratitude and grew increasingly optimistic, witnessing the transformation unfold right before their eyes each day.
Lutheran Church Charities extends sincere thanks to the following LERT and SFA volunteers and congregations from Illinois for their unwavering service, heartfelt prayers, and steadfast support. Your commitment makes a profound difference and brings hope to those suffering and in need. Cross, Yorkville - Linda Arnold, Pastor Erik Gauss, Carrie Howard, Barb and Gary Lewison, Mike Moe, John Sleezer Trinity, Lisle - Ed and Jan Boerman, Dale and Beth Durfey, Linda Fergusen, Jim and Veronica Reuter, Ed Schwartz, Skip and Karen Sorenson, Wayne and Sandy Witek, Kent Worrell RESTORING HOPE IN NORTH CAROLINAIn September 2024, North Carolina was severely impacted by Hurricane Helene, primarily in its western Appalachian region, causing significant destruction of infrastructure and residential areas.
LERT Volunteers Restore Hope for Mrs. L. LERT volunteers helped Mrs. L. clear large uprooted trees and debris from her farm and out of her corn field. With eight feet of water flowing through her property, the usually gentle creek became a torrent that knocked down large oak trees around her home and left lots of debris in her corn fields. The dedicated LCC LERT volunteers worked tirelessly to help Mrs. L. clear her land, removing the remnants of the storm that had wreaked havoc on her home and livelihood. Their hands-on assistance not only alleviated the physical burden of debris removal but also provided Mrs. L. with a renewed sense of hope. "I am so grateful for the help," she expressed, her voice filled with emotion. "I hope to replant my crops this spring, and with this support, I believe I can."
Serving as the Hands and Feet of Jesus Our dedicated LERT volunteers had the honor of assisting Mr. and Mrs. W. by removing numerous downed and leaning trees from their expansive property. Following Mr. W.'s recent major cancer surgery, he expressed immense gratitude for the care and support provided by our team. Once capable of managing such tasks himself, Mr. W. found it challenging to ask for help, yet he was deeply touched by our willingness to step in. We reminded him that it is our privilege to serve as the hands and feet of Jesus, reaching out to those in need with love and compassion.
Demonstrating Compassion and Skill LERT volunteers demonstrated compassion and skill while helping a couple restore their property. Mr. R. suffered a traumatic brain injury a few years ago and has short-term memory difficulties. Despite the challenges of dealing with multiple fallen oak trees from their neighbor's yard that miraculously missed the couple's home and a dangerous leaning tree, these dedicated volunteers worked tirelessly to ensure the safety of the home. They worked with great care using several rigging techniques to avoid any damage during the removal process of the large tree. After several hours, it was finally brought to the ground safely, without causing any damage to the house, shed, or fencing. Throughout their service, they connected with Mr. R., patiently listening to his stories and providing emotional support, embodying the essence of community care. The homeowners expressed immense gratitude, not only for the physical assistance but for the genuine connections made during this trying time.
LCC LERT wishes to express our heartfelt gratitude to the wonderful congregation of Mt. Pisgah in Hendersonville for their unwavering hospitality and support. Your generous provision of meals and a welcoming environment have been instrumental in empowering LCC teams to serve with passion and dedication. Your commitment to outreach and care not only uplifts our volunteers but also profoundly impacts the lives of those we serve together. Thank you for embodying the spirit of compassion and community that is central to our mission at LCC. LCC Disaster Response extends sincere thanks to the following LERT volunteers and congregations for their willing service, prayers, and support: ILLINOIS Immanuel, Batavia Bill Pietsch Immanuel, DeKalb Pete Springmire Immanuel, Shobonier Fran Collier Lord of Life, Elburn Kevin Krage, Terry and Mary Kramer, Max Metz, Dave Smercina, Larry Zagorski St. John, Wheaton Steve Chester, Marty Johnson, Julianna and Kate Madden, Anna Piro St. John, Wilmette Tom Morrison St. Paul, Rockford Dean and Carol Ullrich IOWA Trinity, Davenport Ken Stotmeister INDIANA St. John, Dillsboro Steve Black, Ruth Weisbrod TEXAS St. Paul, Austin Pastor Robert LeBlanc  Continued Care for Families in Need The aftermath of Hurricane Helene has left many communities in need, and there's still much work to be done. Lutheran Church Charities and our LERT volunteers remain steadfast in their commitment to continue to provide compassionate support in the long recovery process to those affected by Helene. Please keep all those affected in your prayers as we work together to rebuild lives and restore hope.
Delivery During the Storm - Hope and Help in Crisis
Appreciation for "All the Servant Hearts"  Pastor Jonathan Christensen of Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Hendersonville expressed thanks and praise for all the servant hearts that have so willingly worked and blessed residents in the community and surrounding areas. “We have sincerely appreciated all the hospitality shown and meals prepared for us by this congregation," said Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, who led the deployment with Jamie Miller, LCC Disaster Response Equipment Manager. To share the LCC volunteers’ appreciation, Matt Flynn, Team Leader of the Immanuel Dundee, IL, crew presented Pastor Christensen with a plaque created to thank the congregation for the ongoing support. Pastor Eric Hollar of Bethel Lutheran Claremont, N.C., and Interim Director of Shepherd’s Heart Ministry, a disaster response non-profit, posted a message last week on LCC Disaster Response’s Facebook page. He shared, “I have been able to focus more on my pastoral duties at my congregation, due in LARGE part to the ‘partnership in the Gospel’ with LCC. We are so appreciative of their support in the response in Hendersonville.” The message was a reminder that Lutheran Church Charities welcomes opportunities to partner with churches and Recognized Service Organizations (RSO) in sharing the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ to those in need LCC Thank-Yous Lutheran Church Charities and Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Hendersonville extend a huge thanks to Kelli Francis from Fuel Relief Fund and Jim Norton from Suncoast Fuel for their generous donation of 500 gallons of diesel to use during LCC Disaster Response’s deployment. “What a savings and blessing it was and continues to be in keeping equipment and trucks full for serving those in need,” O’Day said. LCC Disaster Response gives special appreciation to Lutheran Servants for Christ which loaned its tractor to LCC LERT volunteers last week. Lutheran Church Charities also thanks the following LERT volunteers and their churches from multiple LCMS districts for serving together with LCC Disaster Response during the three-week deployment: Northern Illinois District Christ Our Savior, Dixon – Joy Holden Christ the Rock, Rockford – Matt & Carol Robert Good Shepherd, Frankfort – Joel Powless Heartland, Normal – Tony Buchberger Immanuel, Crystal Lake – Jeff Dykstra Immanuel, DeKalb – Pete & Christel Springmire Immanuel, Dundee – Bill Conforti, Matt Flynn, Terry & Denise Fuelling, Al Navarro Immanuel, Shobonier – Fran Collier Lord of Life, Elburn – Terry & Mary Kramer, Vince Miller, Larry Zagorski Prince of Peace, Palatine – Jim Beckley St. John, Wheaton – Steve Chester, Marty Johnson, Marty Starck, Dave Schlesselman, Rich Wren St. John, Union – Laurie Mathisen, Rick Miller, Nick Miletta St. John, Wilmette – Tom Morrison St. Paul, Rockford – Dean and Carol Ulrich Trinity, Lisle – Ed Schwartz, Ken Scott Trinity, Roselle – Kristin Bilar Zion, Ottawa – Dave & Cindy Reif Indiana District St. John, Dillsboro – Steve Black Christ, Valparaiso – Milan Coburn Iowa District Trinity, Davenport – Ken Stotmeister Missouri District New Beginnings, Pacific – Glenn Stellhorn South Wisconsin District Brookfield Lutheran, Brookfield – Laura Ciletti Prince of Peace, Menomonee Falls – Roger Kautz St. Paul, Grafton – Mark and Bev Brueggemann, Stu Natale, Kaye Voss Southeastern District Mt. Pisgah, Hendersonville, North Carolina Pastor Jonathan Christiansen, David Maloney, David and Wendy White “We leave behind new friends, memories, hope, and prayers for our brothers and sisters in Christ as they continue their recovery process,” O’Day said. “It has truly been a blessing to serve!”
READ MORE stories of homeowners who have been helped by LCC LERT teams on the LCC HURRICANE RESPONSE page.
LCC LERT teams, which have come and gone during the multi-week deployment, are led by Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jamie Miller, LCC Disaster Response Equipment Manager, and have been working from a home base at Mt. Pisgah Lutheran in Hendersonville, under the leadership of Pastor Jonathan Christensen.
Amid the cutting, hauling, and clearing, the LCC LERT team has used Spiritual First Aid™ to encourage residents who have been struggling emotionally in the weeks since the storm. Some stories and highlights:
LCC LERT volunteers worked at a site in Asheville with a steep-sloped yard that couldn’t accommodate machinery and heavy equipment. “Everything needed to be cut and hand-carried, or left in place,” O’Day said. “The homeowner sent an email later that said, ‘You all are amazing! Our life had been turned upside down, but you have helped by doing what you do. Thank you so much. God bless all of you!”
A second site in Asheville had 15 leaning tees that had to be felled, as well as one tree that had been broken in half. This week, some new LCC LERT volunteers were on the job and they had a climber that was able to remove the tree safely. “The homeowner was extremely grateful to have these dangerous trees gone and her property safe for her family,” O’Day said. “ All the volunteers worked hard and shared the love of Christ with those they served.” READ MORE stories of homeowners who have been helped by LCC LERT teams on the LCC HURRICANE RESPONSE page.  Led by Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Jamie Miller, LCC Disaster Response Equipment Manager, Lutheran Church Charities LERT volunteers are halfway through the second week of working around Asheville, N.C., and Hendersonville, N.C., areas that were devastated by hurricane winds and flooding nearly a month ago. Working out of Mt. Pisgah Lutheran Church in Hendersonville with Pastor Jonathan Christensen, crews have assessed 86 sites with requests for assistance coming in daily. In the first week, 27 LERT volunteers joined together to cut damaged and leaning trees, remove safety hazards, and clear debris for residents in the region. As the second week began Monday, 21 volunteers were continuing to serve. Altogether, teams have completed work at 29 sites, several of them multi-day efforts. LCC LERT teams will continue to serve in the area until at least November 9 and would value your prayers and support. Coming up on November 6, LCC President/CEO Rev. Chris Singer and Rev. Dr. Jeffrey Skopak of Emmanuel Lutheran Asheville will join with multiple LCMS congregations and residents in the region for an evening of community togetherness and spiritual support to help the recovery process. “We’ll explore the importance of connection and healing, share awareness of post-disaster challenges, and introduce tools like psychological and Spiritual First Aid™ to identify next steps in the recovery journey,” Singer said. “Together, we can rebuild not just our homes but our spirits.” GOD-MOMENTS FROM THE NORTH CAROLINA DEPLOYMENT During the first 10 days of the deployment to North Carolina, Lutheran Church Charities LERT volunteers have used Spiritual First Aid™ to encourage residents who have been struggling emotionally in the weeks since the storm. Team members have supplied tangible goods to meet physical needs, such as quilts, space heaters, and gift cards, which have been provided by Lutheran Church--Missouri Synod congregations in the Northern Illinois District. Some highlights:
LCC LERT team members worked on the property of a Mr. W. His family of eight could not live in their home because a large tree was leaning on it and threatening to fall through it. He also had a lot of downed and broken trees on his property. With multiple health issues, he could not afford to clear the debris. As he told us, “I may not have much, but I do have a family — and we just want to be able to come back home and be together again safely.” He was very thankful for all the work that was done so he and his loved ones could return home.
 Lutheran Church Charities returned to Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Church in Ruidoso, New Mexico, last weekend and this week for a six-day deployment that included training in early disaster response and chainsaw work, plus administering Spiritual First Aid™. Ruidoso has continued to recover from the South Fork Fire and flash flooding that devastated the mountain town in June, destroying 1,400 homes and businesses. LCC teams from three states began arriving on Friday at the invitation of Pastor Jason Rust of Shepherd of the Hills. Counselors from Gloria Dei Lutheran in Houston, Texas, and Lord of Glory Lutheran Greyslake, Illinois, joined the Persis K-9 Comfort Dog team of King of Kings Lutheran Glenpool, Oklahoma, and LCC Disaster Response personnel from Illinois. Pastor Rust requested LCC’s help after reaching out to two pastors in Texas for assistance. In turn, the Texas pastors recommended LCC, which began the new partnership with Shepherd of the Hills. Also unique on the New Mexico deployment was that church members went directly from classroom training into the field for practical ministry work — with the ultimate aim of pointing their hurting neighbors and friends to the hope found only in Jesus.  21 TRAINED, CERTIFIED BEFORE SERVING IN THE COMMUNITY A day-by-day account of LCC Disaster Response ministry work: Friday, October 11 The deployment started with Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Marty Johnson, LCMS and LCC Chainsaw Instructor, meeting with members of Shepherd of the Hills to assess damage in the region caused by the wildfire. The LCC Disaster Response team also got to check out an equipment trailer the church purchased with grant money supplied by the Disaster Response division of the Lutheran Church-Missouri Synod. The trailer is outfitted with a workbench and shelves to hold saws, personal protective equipment (PPE), gasoline, bar oil, and other tools for church members who are certified in Lutheran Early Response Team (LERT) training. Many thanks to the Synod. With these supplies, volunteers will be preparedto serve their disaster affected community and share the hope of Christ. Saturday, October 12 Marty Johnson, LCMS and LCC Chainsaw Instructor, taught nine members of Shepherd of the Hills how to operate a chainsaw, drag safely, and fell, buck, and limb trees. “It was a very good day and all felt they learned a lot in both the classroom and working in the field,” O’Day said. “All the saws and PPE were used from their new team trailer. On Monday, this new LERT team will start helping homeowners clear burnt trees from their properties with LCC guidance. They are excited to be the hands and feet of Christ to their neighbors.” Sunday, October 13 Deaconess Kathy O’Day, LCC Director of Disaster Response, and Marty Johnson, LCMS and LCC Chainsaw Instructor, taught basic Lutheran Early Response Training (LERT) to a group of 21 students from three churches: Shepherd of the Hills Lutheran Ruidoso, New Mexico; Mission Lutheran Las Cruses, New Mexico; and St. John’s Lutheran, Orange, California. All 21 were certified and now form the newest LERT team in the LCMS Rocky Mountain District. “It is good to see how the Disaster Response ministry is continuing to grow with volunteers willing to share the mercy, compassion, presence, and proclamation of Jesus Christ in service to those suffering and in need,” O’Day said. Monday, October 14 The new Shepherd of the Hills LERT chainsaw crew worked at the homes of two congregation members to remove numerous burnt and damaged trees. Homeowners are responsible to clear their property of these trees before they can rebuild or sell their home, according to town bylaws. Insurance does not cover these costs. “Both homeowners were so appreciative of having this removal work done by their own church family,” O’Day said. “It was a privilege to watch these volunteers enthusiastically begin to develop their team and minister to those they will be serving. READ MORE about the LCC Care Team part of the deployment.  Lutheran Church Charities Disaster Response was invited by the Mayor of Woodridge, Illinois, Gina Cunningham, and Mr. Dan Hecht, case manager, to serve alongside Woodridge Neighbors Helping Neighbors to offer assistance to families finally able to move back into their condominiums that were damaged in the Woodridge-Naperville tornado in June 2021. On Saturday, Lutheran Early Response Teams (LERT) volunteers completed handyman projects for residents and helped move household items. The Trinity Lutheran LERT team from Lisle, Illinois, serviced breakfast and a hot lunch to residents and volunteers. Mayor Cunningham and Mr. Hecht expressed their deep appreciation for our continued willingness to assist the residents of their community in their ongoing tornado recovery. Many residents thanked the team for the meals and help they received in their homes. Although the size of the projects varied, the servant hearts and hands were well received by all. The following LERT volunteers served with joy: Trinity, Lisle
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