Staten Island - February 2013 - 1

As we prepare for the next trip, there is much anticipation. Having made two trips already, it does seem by now we should know what to expect, but nothing is certain. The daily routine has been established, and is typical with most disaster relief efforts. Our group leader has taken alot of the preparatory and tool supply upon himself, which makes life much simpler for more people to volunteer. Even though alot of work is 'inside' we do need some help from mother nature and have been pretty fortunate thus far. Here's to three more successful days of volunteer work on Staten Island.

Kissam Ave and Fox Beach Rd

Hey All,

This is the initial entry for a blog to chronicle our volunteer relief efforts for Hurricaine Sandy with the disaster relief organization, the the Sing One Song Project  www.singonesong.org . Most, if not all of this concentrated effort will take place in Staten Island, New York. I was first introduced to the idea of volunteering in Dec 2012, through an announcement at my church. Before I knew it, I was wisked away to sunny and warm (really) Staten Island New York, 'mucking out' and 'tearing down' for three days in mid December. A typical day of volunteering in a disaster relief effort, so far for me has been as follows: up and ready to go by 7:30 AM. 8:00 AM: Depart for the group's assigned house- (GPS has proven to be instrumental). Each house usually has more than one group working on it at a time. Every house is assessed prior to arrival and direction is given for the work to be completed that day. It is usually VERY simple: tear stuff up and throw it out. It doesnt vary too far away from that instruction. This is known as the 'muck out' phase. Staten Island will be in this phase for many months, although some houses have already been completely restored and the owners have returned to live. Depending on the size and need of the house- a group will usually take on one assigned house per day.

The New Dorp Neighborhood on Staten Island

But there isn't much difficulty in finding places that need help, if we finish early. The work day lasts until about 4:00-4:30 PM, which sounds a little early but lunch is quick, down and dirty...literally. Lodging, also is usually less than glamourous. So far, it has been the floor of the church we are based, although an air mattress does do wonders. I have been introduced to some really great people with alot of experience doing this type of work. Also, the church has had several groups scheduled there since November, 2012. It's quite amazing and inspiring to see the amount of people and the distance traveled to help others!

More to come!

For more information please visit the websites:

www.singonesong.org