Volunteer with NECHAMA

Show up when it matters, leave a lasting impact

Volunteer with NECHAMA to help communities recover after life-altering disasters. Join us as an individual, or bring a group, delegation, or organization — your work ensures families return home, and connects you to something bigger than yourself.

Group of volunteers in blue shirts working on the roof of a building under a cloudy sky.

Where help is needed now

NECHAMA responds to disasters across the United States through sustained, on-the-ground recovery — from mucking and gutting flooded, damaged homes to rebuilding what was lost.

New Bern, NC

New Bern

Currently running
Augusta, GA

Augusta

May 10th
NECHAMA responds to disasters across the United States through sustained, on-the-ground recovery — from clearing flooded, damaged homes to rebuilding what was lost.
What volunteers do

Practical hands-on work, guided by experienced leaders

NECHAMA volunteers work on the front lines of recovery, contributing by:

Mucking and gutting damaged homes
Clearing brush and removing debris
Hanging drywall, painting, installing flooring, and assisting with construction projects
How we support volunteers

A safe, organized, staff-led volunteer experience

Volunteers receive:

Hands-on training

All the necessary tools and safety equipment

Clear guidance and supervision from experienced team leaders

A collaborative environment where everyone contributes

Please note:

NECHAMA ensures volunteers can do meaningful work safely, whether it's their first deployment or one of many.

The impact of volunteering

Serve when it counts, and carry it with you forever

NECHAMA volunteers help families take the first steps toward returning home. As they do, they dispel harmful misconceptions about the Jewish community, strengthen interfaith relationships, and live their values by serving all people in need.

Volunteers leave NECHAMA worksites transformed. Serving in disaster-affected communities, often where Jewish presence is rare, leaves a lasting impression — deepening volunteers’ sense of responsibility for others and connection to their values. It’s an experience that stays with them long after they return home.

Sarah Jenkins
Hurricane Fiona
2022
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Sarah Jenkins
Hurricane Fiona
2022
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Rabbi Michael Wolk
Western North Carolina Deployment
2024
Faith in action. Rabbi Michael Wolk led a Temple Israel of Charlotte delegation to volunteer with NECHAMA in October 2024. Supporting their neighbors in crisis provided a profound lesson in Tikkun Olam and a firsthand look at the long road to recovery that still lies ahead.
Lloyd and Lisa
Western North Carolina deployment
2025
Lloyd and Lisa retired to rebuild. A software engineer and a teacher, now gutting walls together in North Carolina. After two deployments to Western North Carolina, they discovered something unexpected: real purpose. Meaningful work. Community. This is what life's supposed to feel like.
Ann-Marie and Sally
Western North Carolina deployment
2025
A neighborhood book club became a weekly commitment to rebuild Asheville. Ann-Marie, a social worker, and Sally, a second-grade teacher, discovered NECHAMA after Hurricane Helene and haven't stopped showing up. Six months in, they're still mucking, gutting, and proving compassion has no denomination. Their message: "If you think we don't need you anymore, we do."
Caleb Seidler
Western North Carolina deployment
2025
When Hurricane Helene hit, Caleb Seidler knew writing a check wasn’t enough. The Charlotte JCC teen coordinator showed up with friends first, then came back with a busload of teens from BBYO, Temple Beth El, and Temple Israel. With zero construction experience and all heart, Caleb and his crews proved that when everyday people show up, extraordinary things happen.
Joseph Kaufthal
Western North Carolina deployment
2025
Joseph signed up for a service trip. He returned home changed. After volunteering with NECHAMA, he brought back memories of hard, rewarding work, and a new understanding of the power of showing up as a Jew in the world. He even started a disaster relief club at his school in New York City.

FAQ

Who can volunteer?

Individuals, groups, congregations, schools, and organizations are all welcome. Volunteers of all backgrounds can serve alongside NECHAMA teams.

Do I need construction experience?

No. Volunteers receive training and work under experienced team leaders.

How long is a volunteer deployment?

Many volunteers serve for a day, several days, or up to a week. Local volunteers may elect to return for multiple shifts over several weeks to months.

Is the work physically demanding?

Yes. This is hands-on recovery work. While volunteers work at their own pace and take breaks when needed, they should be prepared for physical activity and working in challenging environments.
Unsure if the work is right for you? Please contact us with your questions.

Where do deployments take place?

NECHAMA serves communities across the United States affected by hurricanes, floods, tornadoes, and other natural disasters.

Bring your group

Bring your community, congregation, school, or organization to volunteer together

Join as an individual

Join a NECHAMA team as an individual volunteer

Person wearing a blue staff shirt stands looking at houses partially submerged in floodwater.