Disaster Response Workteams (ERT)

Throughout the year, FVUMC sponsors workteams to support our neighbors throughout the state.

Disaster Response Teams

Our Disaster Response Teams travel to areas that are recovering from disaster situations such as hurricanes. Adults are welcome to join - no special skills, experience, or knowledge required! These trips are another way our church offers our neighbors a ministry of care and compassion. Projects range from drywall replacement, staircase construction, painting, grounds cleanup, and more. While the trips are often for a week, volunteers can join for as many days as they are able.

Early Response Teams

Under very specific guidelines, Early Response Teams assist survivors without causing further harm or being a burden to the affected community. ERTs fill a specific need in the early days after a disaster to help to prevent further damage while providing a caring Christian presence.

Teams are assigned to help with needs in the early days after a disaster including cleaning out flood-damaged homes, removing debris, placing tarps on homes and other tasks as needed.

Specialized Early Response Team training courses from the United Methodist Committee on Relief (UMCOR) are held by our NC Conference. ERT Classes help participants understand how United Methodists are involved during a disaster, how to prepare for a disaster, and how to safely respond when a disaster strikes.

Details and Registration for Upcoming NC Conference Trainings are posted at nccumc.org/disaster/training/#ert.