As summer comes to a close, we are reflecting on the incredible rebuilding work that has taken place in Florida and Tennessee in response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton. As we approach two years of responding in these regions, our focus remains unchanged: serving those affected by disaster and mobilizing volunteers to aid in their recovery. Volunteers remain the hands and feet of IOCC’s domestic work. Each swing of a hammer, plank of flooring laid, and brush of paint brings a homeowner one step closer to coming home.
As we approach the two-year anniversary of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, the need for volunteers remains high. We are pleased to share that generous support from individual donors and grants is allowing us to extend our response efforts through March 2027. This additional time means more opportunities for you to offer your time, serve alongside fellow volunteers, and help survivors take the next steps on their long road to recovery.
Looking ahead to 2027, new opportunities to serve are also emerging in the Los Angeles region, where we will continue supporting communities affected by the devastating 2025 wildfires. From the Southeast to California, there will be opportunities to get into the field and continue making a difference in communities on the road to recovery.
Thank you for putting your faith into action as part of IOCC’s domestic work—and for your continued prayers, support, and willingness to serve those in need.
In Christ,
Deacon Paul Zaharas
US Country Representative
On the Ground
Tennessee & Florida
Since the onset of Hurricanes Helene and Milton, IOCC Action Team volunteers have been able to clean up, repair, and rebuild over 110 homes. As we mark the two-year anniversary of the storms, Action Team volunteers remain essential in the recovery process. No skills are required to join an IOCC Action Team, just a willingness to learn! IOCC has skilled Action Team leaders on site to teach you everything you need to know to complete the tasks at hand.
Volunteer opportunities in Tennessee and Florida are available through March 2027. If you are interested in joining an Action Team in 2026 or 2027, please sign up at iocc.org/volunteer26. Spots are available for individuals and groups depending on location. To learn more about volunteering with IOCC’s Action Teams, please visit iocc.org/actionteam. Contact Krista Hamann at volunteercoordinator@iocc.org or 667.331.9812 with any questions.
California
In January of 2025, 14 wildfires impacted southern California, causing widespread devastation in the region. IOCC initially responded to the fires in Los Angeles County by providing emotional and spiritual care at Red Cross Shelters and Disaster Resource Centers, as well as logistical support to local parishes. More than a year after the fires, the need for recovery support remains, and IOCC is continuing its commitment to serving affected communities through the rebuilding process.
Starting in January 2027, IOCC will be partnering with a local organization to support rebuilding efforts in Altadena, California, in response to the wildfires. Action Team volunteers will play a vital role in building new homes for survivors. Opportunities are available for volunteer teams January–March 2027. To organize a group, contact Krista Hamann at volunteercoordinator@iocc.org or 667.331.9812 with any questions.
IOCC’s Annual Field Volunteer Conference
This November, IOCC’s annual Field Volunteer Conference will take place in Asheville, North Carolina. The theme for the conference will be “Preparedness: Mind, Body, & Soul.” The conference will include presenters, workshops, and trainings for Frontline providers and Action Team leadership to better serve those affected by disasters. The conference will include two optional Action Team rebuild days, serving Hurricane Helene survivors in the region.
To learn more about the Frontline and Action Team programs, please visit iocc.org/take-action/volunteer-opportunities.
Calling All IOCC Volunteers!
We want to invite you to a special one-hour virtual gathering for our Parish Representatives and dedicated volunteers on Tuesday, September 1. Outreach coordinators Sophia Kayafas and Theodora Veronis will lead parish representatives and volunteers from across the country in an hour-long virtual workshop to share ideas, experiences, and connect with others who are passionate about IOCC’s mission.
This call will be an opportunity to look ahead to IOCC Sunday on November 22, and upcoming Fall events. Attendees will also be able to learn from one another and receive support as plans are made for the months ahead.
To RSVP, email us at outreach@iocc.org or visit iocc.org/parishrepworkshop.
Awareness Events
Interested in planning your own event to raise awareness about IOCC? Get one on the calendar today! We’d love to help you organize, so please contact IOCC’s Outreach team at 410.243.9820 or outreach@iocc.org.
Check for updates at iocc.org/events. And thank you for partnering with us!
- September 12 – Cleveland, OH: 5K to Support IOCC
- September 17 – Wichita, KS: Reception to Benefit IOCC
- September 20 – Pittsburgh, PA: Dinner with Wine Pairings to Benefit IOCC
- September 25 – Cherry Hill, NJ: Golf Tournament to Benefit IOCC
- October 3 – Chicago, IL: Annual Walk to Support IOCC
- October 4 – St. Louis, MO: 24th Annual IOCC Banquet
- October 17 – Akron, OH: 5K Race for IOCC
- October 22 – Pittsburgh, PA: Oktoberfest Happy Hour to Benefit IOCC
- October 25 – Indianapolis, IN: Annual Dinner to Support IOCC
- October 25 – Philadelphia, PA: 15th Annual Banquet to Benefit IOCC
- November 1 – San Francisco, CA: Annual IOCC Food & Wine Tour
- November 14 – Charlotte, NC: Christmas Market
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