Ways to Get Involved

Many persons have asked “how can I be physically involved in the clean up in Palo, Olin or Cedar Rapids?” A good and direct way in these early stages is to call 319.377.4856 (First Church in Marion) which is working with many UM local churches and groups coming on mission trips as the first response hub to organize and direct the projects. A four stage plan is in place for volunteer workers.
1) Move out “saveable” items.
2) Move out that which is damaged beyond repair.
3) Muck out the home/bleach and do mold kill
4) Begin deconstruction.

Deconstruction, the removal of drywall etc. is on hold to some extent because of city decisions regarding building permits and electricity. We will proceed with this work when given go ahead by local authorities. In a few weeks there will be opportunities for persons who have skills and abilities that do not include those things listed above.

As you volunteer for a day or longer period of time, please be ready to provide the name of your church, pastor’s phone and when you are able to come. More than a day’s notice is MOST helpful if you desire to be put to the most useful and effective work with the teams in place. Further, we are hesitant (because sadly of what we know about the world today) to take any “lone” volunteers, so groups, even of two or three are best.

We are organized early and ready AND need some empathy on the part of the eager helper to accomplish the most for the kingdom. Everyone in Cedar Rapids appreciated the love and prayers of God’s people.

-Rev. Mike Morgan