PREPARED. UNITED. RESILIENT.
Why VOAD Matters:
Collective Impact on Communities
Disasters come without warning and can turn lives upside down in an instant. From hurricanes and wildfires to floods and earthquakes, these events leave families displaced, communities devastated, and infrastructures in ruin. The emotional toll, loss of life, and destruction of homes and livelihoods can be overwhelming.
VOAD exists to fill the gap between what government agencies can provide and what communities truly need to recover. Our mission is to coordinate efforts and resources in a way that multiplies their impact. By pooling the expertise, manpower, and assets of our member organizations, we ensure that assistance is organized, comprehensive, and targeted where it’s needed most.
Take Action Today: Be Part of the Solution
VOLUNTEER
Volunteers are the backbone of our response efforts. Join our team of dedicated individuals to provide disaster response and preparedness support.
BE PREPARED
Being prepared for a natural disaster is vital to protecting your family and community. Learn the different ways you can build resilience before disaster strikes.
PARTNER WITH US
Corporations, foundations, and local businesses can play a critical role offering valuable expertise, resources, and services to help those affected by emergencies.
A Unified Network for Disaster Preparedness and Recovery
Shelby County VOAD is a coalition of committed organizations working together to support our community before, during, and after disasters. Our mission is to equip Shelby County with the knowledge, resources, and tools needed to navigate the entire disaster cycle—preparation, mitigation, response, and recovery.
When disaster strikes, Shelby County VOAD serves as the point of coordination, bringing member organizations together to ensure survivors receive the assistance they need promptly and efficiently. By uniting our efforts, we maximize resources and provide a seamless approach to disaster relief, always prioritizing the well-being of our community.
How We Help: From Immediate Response to Long-Term Recovery
VOAD provides critical services across every phase of disaster management. Our approach is rooted in collaboration, ensuring that each partner organization can leverage its strengths and resources for maximum impact. Here’s how we support communities during and after disaster events:
Disaster Preparedness
We believe that the best way to reduce the impact of disasters is by preparing communities before they happen.
Recovery & Rebuilding
VOAD and our member organizations are committed to staying for the long haul. We support families and communities through every step of recovery. we help survivors rebuild stronger and safer than before.
Immediate Response & Relief
Our coalition distributes emergency supplies like food, water, shelter, and medical care. We coordinate rescue efforts, provide temporary housing, and offer emotional support to help survivors navigate the aftermath.
Volunteer Mobilization
Volunteers are the heart of disaster response. Through VOAD’s network, thousands of volunteers are mobilized to provide hands-on support.
OUR COLLABORATIVE NETWORK
Our strength lies in our partnerships. Shelby County VOAD works with a wide variety of organizations, including:
Faith-Based Organizations
Nonprofit Partners
State and Local VOADs
Private Sector & Government
Understanding Long-Term Recovery and Its Importance
When disasters strike, the immediate response focuses on saving lives, providing shelter, and addressing urgent needs. However, the work is far from over once the crisis subsides. Long-term recovery is a critical phase in helping individuals, families, and communities rebuild their lives and regain stability. VOAD (Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster) plays an essential role in ensuring this phase is thorough, compassionate, and effective.
VOAD IMPACT AT A GLANCE:
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70+ National Member Organizations
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Hundreds of State & Local Affiliates
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Thousands of Volunteers Deployed Every Year
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Millions of Dollars in Aid Distributed
Did You Know?
- Natural disasters cost the U.S. over $100 billion annually.
- Effective preparedness can reduce recovery time by 50%.
Take Action Today: Be Part of the Solution
Your support is vital to our mission. Whether you’re able to volunteer your time, make a donation, or join us as a partner organization, you play a critical role in helping communities recover and rebuild after disaster. Every contribution matters, and every effort brings us closer to a future where no community has to face crisis alone. Join us today to make a meaningful difference—your support helps us respond faster, rebuild stronger, and create a foundation of resilience that sustains hope for generations to come.