NECHAMA Jewish Response to Disaster aids WNC communities with hope and rebuilding – WXLV

As the final night of Hanukkah illuminates homes across Western North Carolina, another light has been shining brightly in the region for months. NECHAMA Jewish Response to Disaster, a volunteer-driven organization, has been spreading hope and aid to communities affected by disasters. Their work, deeply rooted in Jewish values, transcends religious boundaries, offering a helping hand to all in need.

How a Jewish volunteer organization is helping WNC communities rebuild after disasters

Nestled in the heart of Western North Carolina, where the mountains paint a breathtaking backdrop, a volunteer from NECHAMA Jewish Response to Disaster is hard at work. Their mission? To repair a home damaged by recent disasters, bringing hope and stability back to the community.

With each hammer swing and nail set, the volunteer is not just repairing a house, but also mending the fabric of the community. NECHAMA, driven by the spirit of Tikkun Olam, the Jewish concept of ‘repairing the world,’ embodies the power of giving back and making a difference.

The beauty of the surrounding mountains serves as a reminder of the resilience of nature, mirroring the resilience of the human spirit. As the volunteer works, they are part of a larger story—a story of hope, community, and the unyielding determination to rebuild and restore, one home at a time.

The Spirit of Hanukkah in Action

NECHAMA, a Jewish-founded disaster response organization, embodies the spirit of Hanukkah in its commitment to bringing light and hope to communities in need. Just as the menorah’s flames dispel darkness, NECHAMA’s volunteers illuminate the path to recovery and renewal. In the aftermath of natural disasters, they arrive with a steadfast resolve, ready to rebuild homes, clean up debris, and restore hope. Their work is a testament to the enduring power of the Jewish values that drive them, values that have sustained the Jewish people through centuries of challenges.

Among these values is tzedakah, often translated as ‘charity’ but more accurately understood as ‘righteousness’ or ‘justice’. NECHAMA’s volunteers do not simply give out of a sense of pity; they give because they recognize it as a moral obligation. They see the inherent worth in every individual and strive to uphold that worth by ensuring everyone has a safe and secure place to call home. This sense of justice fuels their efforts, from clearing away flood-damaged materials to installing new drywall.

Tikkun olam, or ‘repairing the world’, is another key value that underpins NECHAMA’s work. This concept is rooted in the belief that we are all responsible for making the world a better place. NECHAMA takes this responsibility seriously, rolling up their sleeves to literally repair the world, one home and one community at a time. Their work doesn’t stop at physical repairs; they also aim to restore dignity and foster resilience.

In the spirit of Hanukkah, NECHAMA’s efforts go beyond the immediate relief phase. They stay engaged with communities over the long term, ensuring that the light of hope continues to shine even after the initial crisis has passed. Through their actions, they kindle a sense of optimism and possibility, much like the enduring flame of the menorah. By embodying the values of tzedakah and tikkun olam, NECHAMA serves as a beacon of Jewish ethics in action, inspiring others to join in the vital work of bringing light and hope to those in need.

A Safe Space for All Volunteers

In the aftermath of Hurricane Andrew in 1992, a small group of Jewish volunteers came together to create NECHAMA, a disaster response organization that would serve as a safe space for Jewish volunteers to contribute to relief efforts while maintaining their cultural and religious needs. The name, NECHAMA, is a Hebrew word that translates to ‘comfort,’ reflecting the organization’s mission to bring solace to those affected by disasters.

However, the vision of NECHAMA always extended beyond its Jewish roots. From the outset, the organization was committed to inclusive response efforts, welcoming volunteers from diverse backgrounds who shared their goal of providing comfort and assistance to those in need. This intentional inclusivity has been a hallmark of NECHAMA’s approach, fostering an environment where people of all faiths, cultures, and backgrounds can work together towards a common humanitarian goal.

Max Manasevit, a long-time volunteer and former staff member, highlighted the organization’s intentionality by stating, ‘NECHAMA is not a Jewish organization that does disaster response, but rather a disaster response organization that happens to have a Jewish affiliation.‘ This perspective has allowed NECHAMA to evolve and grow, embracing a broad range of volunteers who bring their unique experiences and skills to the table.

Over the years, NECHAMA has responded to numerous disasters, from hurricanes and floods to wildfires and tornadoes. Their efforts have been a beacon of hope for communities in need, demonstrating the power of unity and cooperation. Through this inclusive approach, NECHAMA has not only provided comfort to survivors but also offered a transformative experience for volunteers, fostering a sense of community and shared purpose that transcends individual backgrounds and beliefs. Some of the key aspects of NECHAMA’s inclusive nature include:

• Cultural sensitivity and awareness in all operations
• Diverse volunteer recruitment and outreach
• Inclusive training and education programs
• Collaboration with various faith-based and secular organizations

Partners in Rebuilding

NECHAMA, a non-profit organization specializing in disaster response and recovery, understands that addressing a community’s needs post-disaster requires a collaborative effort. That’s why they partner with a diverse range of entities including local organizations, faith-based groups, and government agencies. These partnerships are instrumental in identifying and assessing the most pressing needs within a community. Local organizations bring their grassroots knowledge, faith-based groups offer a network of volunteers and resources, and government agencies provide logistical support and funding.

Once the needs are identified, NECHAMA springs into action with their signature hands-on approach. The type of work they do is not for the faint-hearted but vital in the aftermath of a disaster. Their volunteers engage in what is known as ‘mucking and gutting‘ homes. This involves:

• Removing water-soaked materials to prevent mold growth.
• Tearing out damaged drywall and insulation.
• Salvaging personal belongings.

This process ensures that homes are ready for rebuilding and inhabitants can return to a safe environment.

In addition to mucking and gutting, NECHAMA also specializes in debris removal. Clearing the remnants of destruction is not just about aesthetics; it’s about safety and restoring a sense of normalcy. Their volunteers work tirelessly to:

• Clear fallen trees and branches.
• Remove damaged structures and materials.
• Ensure that public spaces and private properties are safe and accessible.

NECHAMA’s work doesn’t stop at physical labor. They also provide emotional support and resources to affected communities. By working closely with local organizations, faith-based groups, and government agencies, NECHAMA ensures that those impacted by disasters have access to:

• Counseling services.
• Financial assistance.
• Legal aid.
• Spiritual support.

This holistic approach to disaster recovery is what sets NECHAMA apart, making them an invaluable partner in times of crisis.

The Road to Normalcy

NECHAMA, a volunteer-driven organization dedicated to disaster response and recovery, has ambitious plans for the future in Western North Carolina (WNC). Their Rebuild Program is at the heart of these plans, aiming to help homeowners restore their homes and lives after devastating events. Max Manasevit, the Operations Manager for NECHAMA, shares, Our goal is to ensure that no one is left to recover alone. We’re here to provide the support and resources homeowners need to return to a sense of normalcy.

The Rebuild Program is a multi-phase initiative designed to address the unique needs of each affected community. Here’s a breakdown of how it works:

• Assessment:

  NECHAMA volunteers conduct thorough assessments of damaged homes to understand the extent of repairs needed.

• Planning:

  Based on the assessment, a detailed recovery plan is developed, outlining the steps and resources required for rebuilding.

• Execution:

  Volunteers, alongside professional contractors, work tirelessly to execute the plan, ensuring that homes are repaired to a safe and livable condition.

• Follow-Up:

  Even after the rebuild is complete, NECHAMA continues to check in with homeowners to ensure their long-term recovery and provide any additional support needed.

NECHAMA’s work in WNC is more than just physical reconstruction; it’s about helping homeowners see hope amidst the chaos. Rami Schwartzer, the WNC Program Director, explains, When we arrive, many homeowners are overwhelmed and unsure of where to start. Our presence gives them a sense of hope, a light at the end of the tunnel. We’re not just rebuilding homes; we’re rebuilding lives.

In the coming years, NECHAMA plans to expand its reach in WNC, engaging more volunteers and partnering with local organizations to strengthen communities against future disasters. By focusing on long-term recovery and preparedness, NECHAMA is committed to creating a more resilient WNC. As Max Manasevit puts it, We’re not just here to clean up after a disaster; we’re here to build a stronger, more prepared community for the future.

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