The Devastation of Hurricane Helene and How We Can Support One Another

As Hurricane Helene swept across the region, the damage it left in its wake has been heartbreaking. From flooded homes to wrecked infrastructure to loss of life, the impacts are felt far and wide, affecting not just the communities we serve but also many of our own IAVM members.

At IAVM, we stand together during these times of crisis. The strength of our network has always been in our ability to support each other through challenges, and this moment is no different. Whether you’re dealing with property damage, displacement, or emotional stress, we want you to know that you are not alone, and we will do whatever we can to help.

A Call to Action: Let’s Help Each Other

How IAVM Members Can Help

For those fortunate enough to be in a position to assist, we encourage you to get involved. There are many ways to lend a hand:

• Reach Out to Affected Members: If you know a fellow member who may be impacted, a quick message or call can make all the difference. Let’s check in on each other.
• Contribute to Relief Efforts: The American Red Cross has more than 1,000 disaster responders working around the clock to get help to those in need. You can help by making a financial donation by visiting org,calling 1-800-RED CROSS (800-733-2767) or texting the word HELENE to 90999. Financial donations for Hurricane Helene enable the Red Cross to prepare for, respond to and help people recover from this disaster. If you would like to volunteer with the Red Cross, visit redcross.org/volunteer to learn more about volunteer opportunities. Helene has also led to the cancellation of blood drives across the Southeast, causing more than 2,500 blood donations to go uncollected. Those outside the affected areas are encouraged to schedule a blood donation appointment now by visiting RedCrossBlood.org or using the Blood Donor App to help restock the shelves.
• Share Resources: If you have access to facilities, accommodations, or other helpful resources, consider offering them to displaced members. Our network can be a powerful force in providing shelter and aid.

Stay Connected

During disasters like this, communication is key. IAVM is dedicated to keeping our members informed and connected.  If you are an IAVM member affected by Hurricane Helene, please do not hesitate to reach out. Update us and keep your fellow IAVM members apprised on how we can help via VenueNet or at via email at amy.fitzpatrick@iavm.org. Please let us know how of how you and your venues may also be assisting your communities, so that we may share those stories with all of our members.

We’ve faced challenges before, and through mutual support, we’ve emerged stronger. Let’s support one another in every way we can.

Stay safe, stay connected, and remember: IAVM is here for you.

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UPDATE (10/3/2024 at 10:30 AM CT) –

An IAVM member who has been in contact with individuals in western NC via amateur radio emergency service (ARES) has learned that there is a donation call for items and services through Anchor Baptist Church and Ministries in Pisgah Forest, NC.  They are a staging area for donations and have posted the items and services needed on their website at https://www.anchorbaptist.org/disaster-relief. 

As more donation needs and service needs are sent to us, we will update them here.