RVers ride to the rescue for those in need

RV volunteers wanted.

Requirements: strong back, strong spirit.

“We’re looking for people who can physically do the work,” says volunteer Don Buller, “and who have emphatic hearts.”

Buller, and his wife, Marilyn, both in their mid-60s, are project directors for a new RV Program attached to the Mennonite Disaster Service.

For more than 50 years the Mennonite Disaster Service has quietly responded to the needs of people affected by disasters in North America.

Since Hurricanes Katrina and Rita ripped through the Gulf Coast area last year, thousands of MDS volunteers, many of them RVers, have been up to their elbows in red clay rebuilding homes and rebuilding lives.

Because the devastation is so widespread and so extensive, MDS has committed to helping in the region for at least the next five years.

“One thing we’re concerned about is the ability to respond rapidly to disasters and be able to set up in short order,” says Buller from his home in Fresno, Cal.

The Bullers have worked in more than 75 locations across the country, lending help at disaster sites or assisting with construction with churches or nonprofit organizations.

Frequently the Bullers would travel to those locations towing their 32-foot Automate fifth wheel trailer with a 3/4-ton Chevy.

“Over the past 14 years we’ve been involved with a couple of volunteer groups that have an RV component,” says Buller, “and we thought a similar program would be good for the Mennonite Disaster Service.”

The RV Program will begin as a pilot effort in October and November, and then a second phase will run in January and February. The initial location will be somewhere along the Gulf Coast

RV volunteers can be couples or individuals who have access to a self-contained recreational vehicle. They do not have to be members of the Mennonite faith; but need to have a compassionate spirit.

“We are looking for people who have an empathy with individuals in traumatic situations,” says Buller. “As much as we are into rebuilding houses; we are also rebuilding hope in people.”

Listening is a big part of the work.

“We don’t care if a person sits down on the job and visits with the homeowner,” says Buller. “In fact, we encourage it. It is all part of the healing process.”

Volunteers will need to commit to work for a minimum of four weeks.

In exchange, they will receive RV parking at no expense, with full hookups including a minimum of 30-amp electrical service, a water hookup and a means of black and gray water disposal.

“One unique feature of this program is the four-day work week, six-hour days,” explains Buller. “Retired people many times don’t have the stamina to work a 40 hour week, nor do they desire to do that all the time.”

Buller says construction skill level doesn’t matter.

“We’re not particularly concerned if they have construction skills or not,” says Buller. “If they’re a willing worker, we’ll show them how to do it.”

People are encouraged to bring work clothes, rain gear and steel-toed work boots.

“I have a little saying,” reflects Buller, “‘If you want to leave imprints in the sands of time – wear work boots.’”

Information

“ To learn more about the Mennonite Disaster Service RV Program call project directors Don and Marilyn Buller at (717) 823-0692 or e-mail mdsrv@mds.mennonite.net.

For background on MDS go online to www.mds.mennonite.net; call (717) 859-2210, FAX (717) 859-4910; write to 1018 Main St., Akron, PA., 17501; or e-mail: mdsus@mds.mennonite.net.

“ Habitat for Humanity International is looking for RV volunteers, contact the Habitat for Humanity RV Care-A-Vanners Information Desk at (800) HABITAT (800-422-4828), ext. 2446. Or write to RV Care-A-Vanner Coordinator, HFHI, 121 Habitat St., Americus, GA., 31709-3498. Or go to www.habitat.org/rv.

“ To find out about a variety of other volunteer opportunities go Escapees RV Club at www.escapees.com and RV Volunteers on Wheels at www.rvhometown.com.

Wheel question

There must be hundreds of local RVers who have volunteered on the road. We would like to share your most rewarding experiences so that other RVers can get ideas on where they may go to help others. Call (509) 459-5435 or e-mail juliannec@spokesman.com with your story.