Resources

Deployment

Every disaster is different and we will provide volunteers with the most appropriate, up-to-date information as each disaster develops. However, if you are planning on coming out on deployment, please take a look at the frequently asked questions below. If you still have questions, please contact Amy Cytron at acytron@nechama.org or by calling 763-732-0610.

For more on deployments, please click here.

What do I need to bring on a deployment?
  • Personal toiletries (soap, shampoo, toothbrush etc.)
  • Towels
  • Shower shoes
  • Sheets and blanket or a sleeping bag
  • Pillow
  • Work clothes – Long pants (any clothing that can get dirty and muddy)
  • Work boots or sturdy shoes
  • Reading materials
  • Flashlight
  • Sunscreen
  • Bug spray
  • Sunglasses

How long does a deployment last?

Depending on the type of disaster we are responding to, we look for volunteers who can work 1 day, several days or a week.

How do I get to the deployment area?

Volunteers need to provide their own transportation to a designated area. NECHAMA typically provides transportation to and from the actual work site.

Who will give me instructions?

The Operations Manager, Volunteer Coordinator, or senior NECHAMA volunteer will provide you with all necessary information at the staging point and/or throughout the field work.

What if I can’t lift a lot of weight?

NECHAMA’s work is physical, but it isn’t all lifting freezers and heavy items. Volunteers need to be able to work, but we work together as a team. Can’t lift something? Grab another volunteer to help or move on to another task. The team leader will be able to help point you to things that you can accomplish.

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Disaster Preparedness

Here at NECHAMA, we respond to disasters. But responding to disasters is a lot easier when people are prepared. We encourage everyone to get a kit, make a plan, and be informed. Information on disaster kits and plans can be found many places, but we recommend the following:

NECHAMA, and all our partners, do our best to help as many people as we can during the course of a disaster. However, most flood clean-up is done by the people affected, their friends and family. NECHAMA is happy to provide training on how to clean-up after a disaster to groups from synagogues, churches, or other civic organizations. If you are interested in having a NECHAMA team leader come teach your group about how to safely and effectively clean up your own home after a flood, please call our office at 763-732-0610 or email Amy Cytron at acytron@nechama.org.

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Training

As we continue to develop our training program, we will post our curriculum here, as well as the slides for the various presentations.

For more on training, please click here.

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