Disaster Relief
Published:
October 14, 2018
Last updated:
March 30, 2026

Meet Volunteers Joe, Erick and Al

Disaster Relief
Published:
14 Oct 2018
Last updated:
30 Mar 2026
Key Takeaways
  • As recovery efforts continue in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria hit over a year ago, NECHAMA continues to receive dedicated and skilled volunteers.
  • All three wanted to help out and use their skills in a meaningful way, so they decided to come back to the island and volunteer their time.

As recovery efforts continue in Puerto Rico after Hurricane Maria hit over a year ago, NECHAMA continues to receive dedicated and skilled volunteers. Over the last few days, it’s been a pleasure to have brothers Joe and Erick, and their close friend Al join our recovery efforts. Between the three of them, they bring over 50 years of experience in skilled trades like masonry, plumbing and commercial construction.
Joe and Erick spent their childhood growing up in Puerto Rico before their family decided to move to New York. Erick and Al met in New York and have worked together, and have been neighbors for many years. All three wanted to help out and use their skills in a meaningful way, so they decided to come back to the island and volunteer their time.

During their first days with NECHAMA they worked at Jacqueline’s home in Guaynabo. Joe, Erick and Al rebuilt walls, worked on major masonry repairs and mended plumbing issues that affected Jacqueline and her family. NECHAMA’s accomplishments are a reflection of the amazing volunteers that join our community. These guys are here for two weeks and will continue using their skills to help those affected by Hurricane Maria. #NECHAMAcommunity #bekind#HurricaneMaria #seleventa #PuertoRico #disasterrelief #nechama#worktogether #volunteer ? @wanderer1886

Posts authored collectively by the NECHAMA team. NECHAMA: Jewish Response to Disaster is a leading national organization in disaster preparedness, response, and recovery, guided by the Jewish value of Tikkun Olam.

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