Please check out www.projecthopeandcompassion.org for more information on continuing volunteer efforts. It's a great place with great folks!

The common bond that every single one of the volunteers share, atheists, Buddhists, Christians, Humanists, Muslims, Jews, etc., is their basic humanity and empathy for others.

Whatever other ethical standards, symbols or concepts are available, it is really our common understanding that where others are in need it provides for the greater good of the human family to help in whatever way we can.

Ultimately it is the individual who chooses to do the right thing.

On the second anniversary of this horrible natural event we would like to again sincerely thank all of the atheists, agnostics, humanists and others who provided human care, compassion, donations and labor in the aftermath of hurricane Katrina.

We have come a very long way and have many more miles to travel...but all of you volunteers have made our burden lighter, and we will persevere.

In this one life, all that matters is what we do and where there is breath there is always hope.

Steve Schlicht and family
http://humanism.meetup.com/164/

God bless all of you who continue to volunteer your time and energy to the rebuilding of Louisiana.

wow. now thats compassion at its best

Isn't this what life is about...if you have you share, if you can, you do? God Bless these folks and others who have helped.

If you loose your life you shall find it. You give the greater glory to God. Its God's joy that you have, keep on giving for great is your reward in heaven!

Just a note, Jehovah's Witnesses have been in Louisiana and Mississippi since the storm with a well organized response. They have built or repaired several thousand homes, and provided care and provisions for the victims. There is an arrangement to care for disasters in a well coordinated way, wherever the need. You don't hear about it much, they don't 'toot' their own horn, just take care of what is needed....all volunteers.

My daughter went there recently for volunteer work. They worked hard restoring a church then overnight someone broke in, stole their tools and the copper water pipes (without turning off the water). The next day they returned to a flooded church. This area would be further along in their cleanup and restoration if it weren't for all the crime! They're stealing construction equipment and tools volunteers are using to cleanup. This mess is not all caused by our governments lack of response.

I know my fiance would love to help out. The article mentioned they need carpentry supervisors and that's just what he is/does; however, I get the impression that volunteers need to be retired well-to-do people like the fairchilds. My fiance and I have a toddler and we live paycheck to paycheck. How can one of us afford to quit our job and head down there to help out? Where would he live? How could he afford to eat, sleep, get around down there? I think an article should be written that provides a "how to" for those who aren't rich but would like the opportunity to volunteer their time and talents to the cause.

Photographic Evidence - Notice the bald headed guy sanding the ceiling. Anonymous? Hardly. That's ME

I'm glad to read about the volunteers who have helped all of the people on the Gulf Coast. My wife and I were recipients of much needed assistance after Katrina. We weren't able to fully thank those volunteers who helped with gutting our old house.

I'm just happy to know that there are people from every walk of life and every point on the map who are willing to help those in need. It's refreshing to read something that doesn't place blame on the Gulf Coast residents for living on the coast.

It would be nice if the news would cover the work Jehovah's Witnesses have done - way more than most people down here.

You should also interview Rick Bowan at Camp Hope in Violet, LA. He's been there for more than a year and is so dedicated to that area.

As I read your article you mentionned a few religious groups but didn't mentionned Jehovah's Witnesses who where the first ones to take a stand in helping the relief efford, by being present in the few days that followed Katrina and are still there helping without letup.Just an observation,that is worth looking into.

Good people are still the majority of the population in any society. We just do not make noise

People that give of themselves in time of need of others, are truly blessed by the supreme power. We as people must return back to the teaching of Jesus Christ. I think he's trying to us tell something, that it's time to wake up and and follow him. I commend those that help their brethen in their time of need. We need to help each other in order for us to survive in this world.

Without the presence of faith based organizations, New Orleans would not have made it through the aftermath of the storm. I have lived in the area for fifteen years and worked with thousands of volunteers for months after katrina. 92 houses is a lot of work. I know that "de-mucking" a house is nothing to be excited about. I worked with a group on the northshore and we focused our work all over this area as well as New Orleans and surrounding areas including St Bernard parish for over a year and a half. Everyday, thoughts of what I have seen still cross my mind. This was a nightmare and without the help of volunteers, nothing would have been possible. God is great!!! Thank you to everyone for their help and their prayers...

This is a travisty! Do you realize that there are 300 million people in this country. If only half gave $100 each to rebuild New Orleans. They would have raised 1.5 Trillion dollars. Where's the money! Show me the money! Not including what Companies gave and Government's, local and foreign.

Bless you - I spent a week with Hope Crisis Response Network in Gulfport, MS this summer - experience changed my life.

To every volunteer to come since Katrina, thank you!!!

Thanks to God that Phil & Donna are good example of God's word. I'll follow your example very soon.

I just returned from the Gulf Coast and New Orleans, where I grew up. Two years on, miles of N.O. are untouched. It looks like the Third World. The city can't repair streets, lights, road signs, or mow the sides of the streets. Abandoned pools are full of mosquito larvae. Whole suburbs look like ruins being reclaimed by jungle. On the coast things have been cleaned up, but there is virtually nothing there for the whole 30 mile stretch. Some are trying to return, some have given up, and many poor and disabled are struggling, physically and mentally. I deeply commend the volunteers, and don't know whether to weep, scream or simply work to help remove the governmant officials who have let our people suffer and die when the money and manpower is there...just being used to destroy someone else's country rather than take care of our own.

I live & work in the Knoxville, TN area. It makes me so proud that fellow "Vols" have taken the time to do for others. God Bless you both.

With Love,

Norma
Powell, TN

Makes me proud to be from Tennessee. They don't call us the Volunteer State for nothing. What wonderful people. Great story.

If Al Gore is correct, and the sea level rises 27 feet, why rebuild anything on the coast? Don't blame Bush for slow rebuilding, it's AL Gore who is scaring people.

And they aren't the only ones. I grew up in this area and still have family there. It is meaningful to the people of the Coast that volunteers actually choose to come live in the same conditions as they are. If it weren't for the faith-based volunteers the majority of folks would still be living in deplorable conditions. Thanks to all of them.

Everyone in the USA tried to help and more money was donated than the US budget Deficit and then the US Government sent 40 Billion. And we are all searching for any signs of any of that money. Seems (We Suspect) the politicians shoved it into a black hole called a personal off shore bank account or some such action as the money is gone. Because of this we, as Americans will never (ever) give to these causes again. No accountability = no more money.

Thank you for your service to our Nation. There are milions of US citizens who volunteer to help other Americans. Glad to see a story about some of them. I was there for nine months helping out and have seen the devastation. There are tangible things that can be done. Sure beats TV... and you know you have done something good. Americans helping Americans... nothing better.

This article proves ther are wonderful,big hearted people in this world. That is what I like to read and turn my thoughts to. Thank you!!

My son is very blessed to be able to join his youth group from Bryan Texas (St. Anthonys Youth Group) and travel to New Orleans the last 2 summers to help restore the aftermass of Katrina. The teens and youth leaders work hard in helping retore the church and community, we thank Fr Joe at St.Maurice for his love and kindness. We look forward to returning next summer to assist. Im very blessed to have such a wonderful youth group for my teens.

Volunteers are "GOLDEN". I have had the fortune to work with my volunteers and have thank heavens for each and every one of them. I too have volunteered and do so every chance I get, I work in a not for profit organization and know first hand what effects a volunteers has. Please treat all VOLUNTEERS with loving and open hands. To the individuals who decides to time to volunteers, "YOU ROCK"

God Bless the volunteers!! I spoke with a friend from NOLA telling me that parts of NOLA are DEAD. No life, no light, no fight!

I asked him about the levies??? He responded : sorta repaired but NOT fixed or ready for a category 3/4/5 hurricane!!!!

I asked him if everyone had come back? He said NO. Gone but not forgotten.

Why is that city not protected from another hurricane???? He said POLITICIANS!! The government!!!

Well, it is a shame. The "city that care forgot" is actually forgotten.

Isn't it a shame? What a beautiful City and terrific people. Shame on POLITICS! Shame on our government!!

Donna and Phil, MERE WORDS ARE NOT ENOUGHT TO SAY BLESS YOU AND THANK YOU FOR YOUR SELF-LESS EFFORTS TO HELP RESTORE AND REBUILD OUR BELOVED MS GULF COAST! Having lived on the coast for 8 years and survived 2 previous hurricanes in Pascagoula MS before Katrina, I know first hand what volunteering can do for not only the ones helped but those helping others! And as fellow Methodists, you have shown and proved the love of God to others that transcends time, distance, work and money. Your efforts cannot be applauded more greatly here on Earth than in Heaven. Send us your email address and we'll keep in touch. Tom and Judy Waller, Columbus MS

MSNBC, what a great story to run on your home page...Americans volunteering & sharing their abundance with people in the USA. We need more stories like this one!

I agree with M Payne. Millions have gone into the area and where has the money gone. Thanks and bless the volunteers that have gone into the area to work. I feel sorry for those who have lost everything. But if you live in an area that is below sea level, you should expect that Katrina was always a possibility. I don't want any of my tax money going into rebuilding anything that is belwo sea level and I have shared my opinion with our government leaders.

These people are a blessing. Anyone that would give their time and talents to help are number 1 in my book. Many of us, because of physical reasons or financial reasons can't go and help, but we can help with donations and most of all with prayer. God bless each one of you for giving of yourselves. God will bless you in ways that you may never know.

Our A/G church sent a group to the Pascagoula, MS area in January after the storm and again this past March and it was truly a blessing to us as well to put hands to work helping those in need

It is such a blessing to see such wonderful people spend a whole year of their life working for others. It makes the two trips I made there seem like nothing. I helped rewire a church on first trip. And helped rewire a personal residence on second trip. I feel so blessed to have had a small part in the recovery effort. God bless all volunteers . Frank Foerman Lawrenceville, Ga.

As Jennifer T. said above, there's lots of us that aren't retired, have to have a paycheck come in every week, don't have months of vacation time saved up, who would be overjoyed to be able to come in on weekends, from Friday evening to Sunday evening, to do whatever needs doing, even if it's just pushing a broom. I understand completely that a lot of reconstruction efforts need people there 12 hours a day for weeks on end, but surely some good could be accomplished with weekend volunteer labor. I have searched and searched trying to find any of the relief organizations that could use someone like this, but have never received any response. If someone could coordinate this, there's a huge untapped pool of volunteers who would be willing to donate our weekends to do whatever we can.

GOD BLESS AMERICA,AND HE HAS, FIRST RESPONDERS, CAME,BRINGING WATER,FOOD,GAS, HOPE TO THOSE WHO NEEDED IT.COMMON PEOPLE LOADED PICK UP,S WITH WHAT THEY COULD AN THEY CAME,SERVICES WERE RESTORED IN DAYS, NOT WEEKS[A/C ,HOT WATER], THINGS YOU USE AND NEVER ASK HOW IT GETS THERE. FEMA GOT CRANKED UP MOVING 36,000 UNITS TO MS.WE ARE ON THE ROAD TO RECOVERY,THE MISSISIPPI GULF COAST WILL BE BEAUTIFUL AGAIN ???? J. DAVIS GAUTIER MS.39553

A great big Thank You to each and everyone that has volunteered their time, effort, and yes...money to the recovery effort.

I live on the Mississippi coast and have had the privilege of seeing (and in some cases working with) these wonderful people that have come here to help us.

We have so many elderly and handicapped people that do not have the finances available to rebuild their homes. Many of them do not have family in the area. These wonderful volunteers are the ones that have given these people the ability to rebuild.

The people of this region will never forget your kindness and generosity. We know that we as a community could not have come this far without you.

Thank you seems so inadequate. It is all I have to offer at this time.

This storm taught me many things. Tough lessons indeed but lessons learned none the less. There was a point in time that I would see a report about floods, tornadoes, and such on TV and would think to myself…those poor people. I’d change the channel and suddenly they were out of sight, out of mind.

Now when I see such reports, I find out just how I can help out. Whether it be money or needed supplies I try my best to contribute. That is partially because I know what it feels like to find yourself suddenly homeless due to a situation that you had no control over. But it is also because of the amazing example the people of our magnificent country set for the world as a result of this storm.

I just wish you all knew how much it has meant to us.

This is what America is about!!
Despite what you may here from the media, faith in God is a driving force in the USA, even today.
Bless all of you who sacrifice their time, money and efort, and remember:
" Do unto others as you would have them do unto you."
We will be there for you!

My husband, son and daughter have had the opportunity to serve twice in the Biloxi area, thru the Nationwide Mennonite Church. It has been a wonderful time, and they have made it very affordable for us Canadians to be able to help our friends down south of the border. We paid our travel, took some vacation time, and they housed and fed us while there. Us, and many others! It is about the people, so devasted by this hurricane. When my family returns they just talk about the wonderful people they were able to serve while down there, and how uplifting it is to be able to do a small part. My 18 year old son so moved after meeting a particular family with three young boys whom lived very differently from us, because of the devastation of the storm. In the evening the group were are able to go and sing at nursing homes and to those they have helped during the week. We have been so blessed by the friendships, and the hope, the love of Christ, that we can share in a practical way. We hope to be able to go another year, and we want to thank all of those who have helped/served us as volunteers, through the time we were helping out!

The Nunn Family. Salmon Arm B.C. Canada.

Thanks to all the volunteers who responded to hurricane season 2005. I went to Florida as a Red Cross Worker and I have volunteered in NOLA (my favorite vacation destination) two visits since Katrina. I'm in awe of those of you who are still there volunteering.

Regarding comments on Bush and Gore: If we don't do something about global warning RIGHT NOW; change things in our daily lives TODAY, make some sacrifices in terms of using gasoline and electricity, shop locally, stop factory pollution - more catastrophies are certain to occur and this planet will be irrepairable for future generations. I could go on for volumes but perhaps you'd be willing to do some research on your own. Here's a good place to start: http://www.voiceofthewetlands.com/

these comments above all worry more about religion than the people that are breaking their backs to help out I am a religious person but it is not the name of the group doing the work it is real live loving people from all walks of life .

Someone asked how the adverage person plug in. Many churches, all donominations, have been helping. Most churches pay the expenses of getting down to the coast& back home. Then the base church feeds & probides sleeping for the volunteers. A person just has to be willing. Many groups are down only on the weekend and others take their vacation time.
You don't have to be rich but you will be richly rewarded for your time.

It was be interesting to read a report on what Jehovah's Witnesses are accomplishing in the Gulf Coast region. They have repaired *thousands* of homes, and I find little press coverage about it. Everyone who is dedicating their time as an individual or a group deserves the highest commendation. I just find it interesting that the news reports very seldom on the activities of Jehovah's Witnesses. Volunteers are being sought in all of the 10,000 congregations nationwide. It's amazing coordination that is occurring.

As a volunteer who has spent a total of four weeks in Waveland helping rebuild lives on the Gulf Coast, the one thing I hope everyone understands is that there is still a great need. I had no construction experience beyond painting before going down to serve. If you don't know how to do something, someone will show you. If you are not able to help because you are not physically able to build, most voluteer organizations need helpers to take care of the cooking and the cleaning for the volunteer who go out in the field - something I did on three of my trips. Also, keep in mind that the locals don't just need people to rebuild their physical lives, they need people to rebuild their emotional lives as well. The willingness of people to travel, sometimes thousands of miles, to help assures those living on the gulf coast that they have not been forgotten and that people care. I can say whole-heartedly that all you have to do is go there and you WILL contribute in some way. The people in the Waveland/Bay St. Louis area are some of the nicest people I have ever met and so are my fellow volunteers from around the country. Waveland is my second home now. If you have even slightly considered going down to volunteer, I urge you to act. Best vacations I have ever taken!

Phil and Donna Fairchld are truly missionaries in every sense of the word. Prior to relocating to MS to help Katrina victims, they organized a prison minstry in Tennessee. The goal was to provide food, friendship, hope, and the word of God to the hundreds of prisoners in Brushy Mountain Prison. God bless the Fairchilds!

I'm reminded of what Roger Babson said: "A truly spiritual man's creed is not live and let live, but live and help live."

I love the article, I would hope that more people read this and what to do something right in their own neighborhood. I think its great that people are helping there, but what about the people they are helping, what are they doing? I think that the people complaining about nobody doin notin should get out and help and not want it all for nothing.

Two wonderful human beings. Words alone cannot describe my admiration for them.

I think it is great that these people were able to serve for that period of time or that anyone can serve any length of time. The past two summers our church youth group has been a part of restoration projects. First in Gulfport, MS and this year in New Orleans. It was a blessed experience each time in different ways. It does help put things in perspective when you see what someone else has suffered and know that you have helped provide them with some hope for the future.

THANK YOU, THANK YOU, THANK YOU! I don't think people realize the impact two years later that this storm still has on our every day lives. Without people like you there would be no hope. All of you volunteers are truly special people and be assured that we are forever grateful for your helping save our beloved city.

How blessed we are to be Americans.This country of ours is the best thing going. The very best are her people. From the on set of our country, until now, with even more destruction caused by rain,no rain winds, and hurracains,the list goes on and on. It's the people who come out to help. Not our goverment. Without the love and caring of one person to another, well, we'd be like other third world countries. From the giving of a few cans of food for food pantries here at home,To finding shelt for homeless. Our peoples have always been willing to lend a helping hand. Our Goverment knows this also. They relly on this, It makes them look good when things get taken care of, as if they had this done. Lately I answered a survey about tv programs and what I thought about the new ones. Not much good to say about these so called programs. I was wondering just how meany people who bother with much tv any more, would rather see live programs on the saving of homes and the putting back together of folks lives. Every once in awhile you might catch such a program on tv. Instead of cop's, coldcase files,morges,murder, and other hate full subjects. What a wonderfull change it would be for us and our children to watch something with an up-beat.Something that showed hope instead having us running out to by bars for our doors, and windows. I know several people that got to go down the fist year after Katrina hit. They still can tell of all the good that was passed around from one person to another. God still loves his people, and he does give us the chance to return a little of his love for us by helping others. There is alot of good to hear about in this land of ours,Thank You for printing this News letter we need alot more like this.

What a wonderful, wonderful story. My daughter was with her Methodist youth group for mission trip in 2006 at Biloxi, one short week deeply touched her, I can only imagine what has happened with the Fairchilds during all this time they gave. Time to take a break, recharge and thanks for doing what you do!

What a wonderful, wonderful story. My daughter was with her Methodist youth group for mission trip in 2006 at Biloxi, one short week deeply touched her, I can only imagine what has happened with the Fairchilds during all this time they gave. Time to take a break, recharge and thanks for doing what you do!

First of all, my heartfelt thanks goes to all those who assisted, volunteered or otherwise came to the rescue of those affected by Katrina.
However, having been to both New Orleans and then down to Mexico after Katrina, I have to say that Mexico has done a much better job of rebuilding and getting on with things than we have here in the States. The drive and determination of a country who had to get things built back up for their pure survival was incredible. And they did it without the aid of money, volunteers or heavy equipment. We could all take a lesson from a humble people who did what they had to do to make sure their families had a meal on the table and a roof over their heads.

Volunteers like these are wonderful. They have truly "stepped into the breach." For isn't it true that our country's National Guard would be able to do much more for disaster relief if we had not sent so many guardsmen to accomplish our president's goal of bringing democracy to Iraq? I have to say, in my heart, I think the National Guard could accomplish many more tangible goals if they, like the wonderful people in this story, were working at the Gulf Coast in our own United States

As a resident of the Mississippi Gulf Coast, I also want to thank the oh so many people that donated items to our children @ Christmas. Many items were sent to the one school remaining in our town- and distributed amongst the students. If we had money to purchase gifts- it mainly had to be on the internet- as so many stores absolutely GONE. And mail was, and still is a joke. My daughter only wanted Mall Madness game-and actually got it from some caring American out there. Thank you. (too bad volunteers cannot rebuild schools- as we still have not seen a school even START to be rebuilt 2 years later--kids still going from trailer to trailer in a field) Again, Thank you America

I am a little ashamed of the several Jehovah's Witnesses that wrote in asking for their "due recognition" as there are many Faith's and groups as well as individuals that have put their entire lives on hold asking nothing in return and have sent numerous volunteers...I always thought we should give because it is God's work and his swill and the right thing to do not because there is a tally sheet somewhere. DD

This is a wonderful story but it brings other emotions to my heart as well. Joy and hope come first due to the phenomenal efforts of the volunteers from around the nation and the world who have helped in La. & Mo. (across the gulf coast affected by hurricanes).
Then despair sets in when I think of the many other communities that do not get the attention recieved in Waveland. The real reasons are still not clear to anyone. However, the US Govt has provided more manpower and resources to rebuild IRAQ than to La. or Mo. and that is the alarming fact. The money that was donated by millions of Americans seems to be stuck within the bureaucratic channels due to either the disconnect between Louisiana state law and Federal govt protocols or the bickering between the various communities about who gets what share of the monies.
Depending on which source you talk to both sides are to blame and neither side seems to want to discard the differences and move forward.
The true victims in the entire situation are the homeowners and residents who did not have adequate insurance due to cultural norms or ignorance. Even those who had paid for insurance, many did not have the 'right' insurance to cover their losses.
We need an accurate, clear plan on how to provide support to La. & Mo. if we do not live in those states. This plan should detail where the money we donated has been lodged and how can we get it to the communities that still have no water, lights, roads, homes, and other types of infrastructure. We have hundreds of churches and personnel who want to do something but the how is the major hurdle.
I urge each of you to have your community 'adopt' a community in Louisiana or Missouri. If we all do our part to help our adopted community then we can rebuild all the communities through our efforts and no community will be forgotten.
If you live in La. or Mo. and your community has not been helped yet, please contact me so that I can attempt to link you with a 'sister' commmunity that can help you. I cannot promise anything other than I will do whatever I can to help you try to move forward.

Howard Haley
18 Oak Shade Rd.
Gaithersburg, MD 20878

Hats off to the Fairchild's. It's surprising how many people who volunteer do so time after time. It's no unusual to have groups returning 5 or 6 times. Relations and friendships are made. Departing many times is very emotional. If you haven't been part of the recovery effort- GO- you'll take away more than you could ever give!

This just goes to show that we dont need the care of the "mommy/daddy" government to help and aid the people of our nation; as the efforts and mobilization of private charity are far more effective, and driven with a passion that government workers will never have.

A group of ten from, Zion and Bethleham Lutheran churches, went to Biloxi the week of June 9. We worked with Habitat for Humanity. Bart Tucker is the coordinator in Biloxi. It was a working vacation for all of us. The fellowship amoung the volunteers was Wonderfull. It is a vacation we will remember for the rest of our lives. I will be organizing another trip to go back in 2008. It ws wonderfull to use our talents to serve the lord. As you looked around you could see the faces of god everywhere. There is a huge need for volunteers along the whole Gulf Coast. It will take many years to repair the destruction done by Katrina. You can see that we can't depend on our government or the insurance companies for assistance.
I would say that most of the houses damaged or detroyed will not be habitable without the volunteer organizations.

Interesting that this article would be published now, just as the incompetent, lying Michael Chertoff is being considered for the now vacent position of the incompetent, lying under oath, criminal, Alberto Gonzales.

The federal government BLEW every aspect of the Katrina recovery effort. This administration has no sense of decency at all.

I have lived in Louisiana all my life. I went through Betsy, Andrew, Katrina and Rita. All I can is thank you from all of us. We are truly blessed in this nation with so many caring citizens.

Kudos to MSNBC for continuing coverage of the aftermath of Hurricane Katrina and the ongoing recovery efforts. In June, Lakeside UMC completed its 2nd trip to Biloxi and Gulfport Mississippi. Twenty-seven high-school aged youth and nine adult volunteers traveled over 2,400 miles to assist in the recovery. We plan to return again next year. There remains so much more to do in healing the hearts and homes of Katrina’s victims. Our "Follow the Son" mission has resulted in repairs to 9 homes and we are in awe of all groups and faiths that continue to make the commitment to help those in need. Well done!

Rejoice in what people have done. While Katrina was a disaster, it brought out the best in some, and allowed many to serve. This ariticle and Katrina should not be used as a bandstand to say "Me Too", or blame people, or a forum for global warming. Celebrate the time and effort of all who helped, with Fairchilds being a point of light, among many. God Bless whomever gave the volunteer there Humanity.

I whent to Waveland with the Mobile Hospital and NC SMAT II Team. I was amazed at the devistation, but more amazed at what the church group beside our camp was doing. Every day I saw this church group grow. I have never seen such a well organized relief effort. If the Government were only half as efficient as this church group beside us was, then I belive things would have gone a lot smoother in the recovery effort.

This is one story of many amazing stories that have come as a rsult of a tragedy. For them to be so giving knowing that the only reward was a an abundance of good feelings and knowing that you are doing what god has called you to do. For those who keep writing in about the Jehovah Witness's contribution, remember it's what God knows that counts, it's not important that we know.

Thanks to all the volunteers who came together to help rebuild our communities,if only our U.S.government cared as much as you the people of this great nation did. Two years have past since Katrina and my home of St.Bernard Parish is still looking like a bombed out war zone,sure there is bits and peices of homes and bussiness slowly sticking their heads from the ruins but until you drive the streets of St.Bernard do you get the magnatude of the enormus task at hand.

Thank you, all of you. I worked for one of those faith-based non-profit organizations that pooled volunteers from all over the U.S. who worked hard at gutting homes, among other things. You know, there are some non-profits in other parts of the country who have criticized our efforts-despite the fact that many hurricane-affected non-profit leaders and their staff were also evacuees who lost everything-their homes, family members and friends, their office buildings, etc.-yet continued tirelessly to help fellow evacuees? It is so refreshing to hear that people are actually grateful for the efforts of volunteers and non-profit organizations.

Anyone can help out the Gulf Coast. Someone mentioned only well-to-do and retired types can help...I'm neither, but I found a way. I have personally spent 3 weeks of the last year helping rebuild houses in NOLA through Operation NOAH Rebuild. Just this one orginization has hundreds of volunteers each week. I have given up all my vacation time to go down there and work for free. Actually, we pay NOAH a small daily fee for a place to sleep/shower and food...it's the cheapest vacation around! And the most worthwhile!

God Bless you MSNBC for sharing a positive story. We the American people need to see and hear more about the good things that go on in this country. God Bless "all" of the volunteers who gave of themselves selflessly. My two children and my three grandchildren were displaced by Katrina for 5 months.
Although they were not helped directly by the people who volunteered they knew others who were and were blessed by that. Yes, New Orleans still has areas that still need help. The 9th Ward and Lakeview areas and I know there are others to name a few. There are
many unsung heros that prefer to remain that way and
I know GOD knows who they are and will bless them for
what they have done and are doing. Volunteers are the
best of the best!

Great story. I hope NBC will also include stories like this on the National TV news to spotlight the accomplishments of volunteers and to highlight the
continuing need for volunteers. I went down to Chalmette from VA for a week in May to help Operation Blessing rebuild a recreation center. It is a community resource that provides a decent place for local kids to play.

All that money donated! Billions! Disappeared! The most corrupt city in the nation! Then, my tax dollars, 140 million, went to rebuild a football stadium for millionaire sports players to play in!! All in a city that is sinking more every year! What did/does the Federal government do for the Florida hurricane victims? Nothing! Bush jr and Jeb flew in, shook some hands, handed out bottled water and ice, then flew back out. Why are my tax dollars going to rebuild a corrupt area like Louisiana? Could it be yet again another example of reverse racism? We trip over ourselves to help the poor, poor blacks. New Orleans is now the murder capital of the U.S.

I was part of a group of 23 people from Seattle's Wood Construction Center that traveled down to the St. Bernard Parish to help rebuild homes. Our trip was funded by an outstanding donor who paid for our roundtrip plane ticket, our food, transportation, and lodging at Camp Hope for one week. Our volunteer efforts in the St. Bernard Parish may not have been possible without her. I was honored to be apart of a fantastic team, but I was mostly humbled by the residents of the St. Bernard Parish who are doing their best to survive with what little they were left with. There is definetly more rebuilding to do and I hope that we, at the Wood Construction Center, will have another opportunity to volunteer soon.

The true meaning of service! Tennessee Volunteers! Hats off to the Fairchilds.

CB,

Thanks for providing the black cloud that this silver lining needed. If that's "all the crime" this area has for a while, I'm ok with that. My experience has been that the residents have been extremely appreciative, and you can't let one bad experience taint the whole amazing process.

I had never been to the South and had the opportunity to go with my church (Rose Drive Friends)to Wiggins and Waveland Ms. after the Katrina disaster. I couldn't believe the devastation. There was nothing left on the coast but foundations, with a few small boats and bathtubs in trees. I have been there 4 times and plan to go again. What I found the most amazing was the faith and strength of the people there. They were an inspiration to me and I received much more than I gave. God bless these wonderful people.There is something for everyone one to do. I learned to mud, sand and paint houses. What a neat thing to learn after retirement.

For volunteer opportunities you can always get involved in United Methodist Volunteers in Mission (UMVIM) or help build flood kits through UMCOR (United Methodist Committee on Relief). You do not need to be well-off. Generally UMVIM trips are 1 week long and involve the volunteer paying their travel costs, unless your church is willing assist. Our church pays 60% of travel costs for volunteers. Generally there are churches or other groups in affected areas that may offer to house and feed you for free during the time you are volunteering. For more information go to:
http://www.umvim.org/home.htm
http://www.gbgm-umc.org/bwvim/Page.asp?ID=1

We have to be proud of everyone that gives of their time, money and talent to help others...My question,like others, what happened to all the money???Everyone, rich or poor gave money...Children gave..and all this is very good...but millions were sent, and millions wasted or went into someones pocket...Americans are the best, and by nature we want to help, but when we see the waste then next time people will not give.....it,s a shame when people work so hard and someone is there to steal...

I was there in April 2006 for two week at The Free Church on the Annunciation's triage center. What a group of volunteers from around the country working there. Churches would come by an offer items that we needed, (just happen to have a few cases of bleach or water)and then drive on. A truck pulling a wells fargo trailer came up from Texas and dropped off about 2000 personal care packages, unloaded and then went back, agin what a group.
Thanks to you all.

I am thrilled to see so many people giving their time to help those in need on the Gulf Coast. I will be heading over on Thursday to help, I only wish all the Presidential hopefuls that are there visiting during the 2nd year anniversary, could roll up a sleve and help pitch in too

Thanks for this heart warming story, there is still some hope for this old world...huh?

Great article. There is still so much that needs to be done for the Katrina survivors and to the devastated areas. Thank God for these volunteers, because the government has certainly failed in its duty.

As a volunteer in Texas after Katrina I continue to see encouraging news about the local people's efforts to rebuild. I'm sure alot has changed since the street lights come back on. The hard part is to except that some low-lying areas are too high risk to bother to rebuild.

We in South Mississiippi would be lost without the out pouring of support and love from the volunteers across this nation. I would like to personally thank the Central Arkansas Baptist Relief Group that came to Laurel,MS two days after Katrina to help us dig out. We are over 120 miles inland and sustained 130 mile winds and 70 plus tornadoes that day. 12 lives were lost that day in Laurel and Jones county. No, we did not make the news, but the wonderful volunteers seemed to find us in our need!!!
God Bless all who have come to help re-build our beautiful Gulf Coast region and New Orleans.

I'm especially proud to have been a "Mother Hen" chaperone on volunteer teams to Bayou la Batre, AL in March of 2006 and 2007. Our teams from southwestern PA were combinations of local church adults & Rotary Youth Exchange students - a total of 28 international teens from around the globe who were spending a high school year in the USA. There was no task too dirty, too hard or too humbling for these young people to tackle, many of them meeting a simple hammer for the first time in their lives and learning to handle power tools with aplomb! They reconstructed, deconstructed and gathered trailer loads of trash and debris for landfills, while interacting with the families whose homes needed the repairs. They learned more about Rotary's motto "Service Above Self" in those weeks than they might have in many years AND that it's NOT governments but ordinary people who make the greatest difference when they serve others in need. These teens took new concepts of serving their fellow man home to their own countries and the world will be a better place for it!

These people are truly little gifts from above! I pray for New Orleans & their people every night!

If the Jehovah's Witnesses were the first ones there for relief efforts they were right behind the Southern Baptist Feeding units. We had to chainsaw our way in and were feeding two days after the storm

As a three-time volunteer and college student who has organized over 100 volunteers, I am glad to see this work continuting. Here at Georgia Tech, we have vowed to make sure that we maintain support and a volunteer base and continue to increase volunteer participants. On a more personal note, because I have family that was affected by the hurricance, I truly appreciate every person who has gone above and beyond to provide whatever service they could to the region. My grandfather and grandmother and all my family is truly grateful.

I have been two times to the Waveland area to help. I am a working mom and took vacation time to go with my daughter and friends to help Eight Days of Hope. We could only stay part of the time (not the whole 8 days), but what we did and the people we met canged our lives. This summer we went to a third world country for a mission trip and we agreed it looks a lot like the Gulf Coast. We want to return as soon as we can to continue the effort. May God get the glory!

Our church sent volunteers to New Orleans right after Katrina. The stories the folks told described the unimaginable. Last year, I was able to see scenes that will be etched in my heart forever. They were scenes of a nation intent on helping these folks regain their lives, self respect and independence while around them stood- and I mean STOOD- federal, state and local governmental agencies paralized by their own self generated regulations rather than directly helping the very citizens who through their taxes had paid to establish agencies to respond to citizen needs.

It really did not matter what religions were represented but most importantly that PEOPLE were volunteering to help their neighbors across the country. Helping people to know that other people not only cared but came to restore life as the residents had it.

As a national American Red Cross volunteer who came and stayed in a shelter in Waveland I was at first outraged because the plight of only New Orleans seemed to be getting the news coverage. My hat is off to Brian Williams and his crew for first "yelling" to the nation that Mississippi was forever impacted by Katrina. On the one year anniversary, I returned to the area and saw so much had been cleaned up but homes were not being as readily constructed as were the casinos! Now,everyone about the Gulf Coast has the problems of finding home insurance, as most companies quit insuring along the Gulf. I am among those persons who has relocated to the Gulf Coast region and try to help as a volunteer. I look forward to traveling along routes 10 and 98 tomorrow on the second "anniversary" with hopes of seeing a lot more homes rebuilt.

This is Bush's plan to make faith based organizations solve all the ails of a country .
God forbid should the government have to help solve America's problems.
These people do great works but the government should be doing and paying for this.
God forbid no entitlements .

I have been down to MS three times now and turned 70 years of age during my last trip which just happened to be to Waveland. Stayed in facility provided by Lagniappe Pres. Church. Habitat Greenville SC built a "Home in a Box" in Waveland and without a doubt that week was better than Christmas on "the mill hill". I was amazed at the testimony of the MS people as to the determination to rebuild. I thank God for giving me the strength to make such a small contribution. I would go back tomorrow given an organized opportunity. By the way I shall never forget Chris and Jeremiah of Habitat Waveland. Those guys are a walking testimony of Faith.

It's wonderful to hear of people doing the things they are doing to help the victims of Katrina. Our little church is getting ready to send a second team to Slidell, LA. We went last year to help rebuild homes, and another group is returning in September to do whatever is needed in cooperation with our sister Methodist church there. Praise God for all the volunteers!

First, "THANK YOU!".

Next, how can we and others help you to continue your work and helping in the affected areas. I have heard of another couple from NCarolina working in New Orleans full-time also. Is there a web-site or other way to connect potential volunteers with your needs and your work.

What a refreshing & uplifting story. The Fairchild's desire & determination to help others should be THE TOPIC of conversation in every household. If we did the things we're capable of, we'd truly amaze ourselves. Kudos to the Fairchild's for their amazing generosity, kindness & willingness to give so much of themselves.

I volunteered at the Camp Gulfside site for a week and experienced first hand the blessing of having Phil and Donna guide us and care for the volunteers. They made our volunteer efforts not only possible, but successful. I thank God for giving us leaders like Donna and Phil. They helped us see our part in the larger effort and fed us both physically and spiritually.

IT MAKES MY HEART WARM TO SEE GODS NAME USED FOR SOMETHING POSITIVE AFTER THE LAST FEW YEARS
GOD BLESS ALL OF YOU
JEFF SILVERSTEIN
NYC

I glad to see the volunteer's are finally getting recognized for their efforts. Many people think that giving to the United Way was the way to help the people who suffered from this disaster. These people need to ask the United Way what they have done? In a interview with the head of the United Way in New Orleans, a week after Katrina, he was asked how they were going to distribute help and releif. His answer was, first we have to rebuild our offices, then with the remaining funds, we can start helping people in need. In other words the only people taken care of by the United Way was people who work for the United Way. Instead of paying for the United Way to operate, donate your services, or spend your donations in your own neighborhood. Help the children in your own neighborhood. These are the ways I've done it. I gave a neighbor the money to go to his Senior Prom, becuase his parents couldn't afford it. I gave a neighbor girl money for a talent show in our area, becuase her family couldn't afford it. I give to the children in my area. I know were the money is going, and there is no administration fee's deducting from my donation. I tell all of them, when their rich and famous they can pay me back. But I think the best lesson I've tought them, is help your neighbor. I think if everybody in America took this aproach to donating, we would all benifit, by teaching our children to help your neighbor. It may be blow to the United Way, and people who make 6 digit incomes off our donations, would have to get real jobs.

The Disaster Response Committee of the Western North Carolina Conference of the UMC applauds all the volunteers who have gone to the Katrina and Rita-stricten areas. Over 8,000 from our conference have joined the 10's of thousands from throughout the country to bring relief and recovery. The power of the faith can be seen in action.

I was scared to death that as someone who spent my days sitting behind a desk that I couldn't handle the physical demands that would be required as a Southern Baptist Feeding Unit volunteer. I used my vacation time to go down for what was supposed to be a one week stint in a little town on the TX/LA border. We spent a day there and were asked if we could help out in New Orleans - I said sure - I came to work -lets do it! Got over to Kenner and began working with the Arkansas Baptist Feeding Unit #1 volunteers. Never in my entire life have I physically worked that hard and had that much fun! I saw the face of God everywhere I turned - in my fellow cooks, the Red Cross ERV drivers, the local residents we met from time to time. I saw what I know in my heart were MIRACLES every day! My week turned into three and I went back again over Christmas holiday for another week and again to work with the Rebuilding volunteers working in the Gentilly neighborhood. I am proud of the Southern Baptist volunteers because that's who I served beside but I also praise the efforts of the countless other groups we saw each day working till they dropped from exhaustion and who are still working in the Gulf regions trying to help restore some semblance of "normal" to a devastated community. Our God is an awesome God and He hears the fervent prayers of righteous men. Please note - the scripture doesn't qualify that truth with Baptist, Methodist, Jehovahs Witness or anything else! All He looks for is a righteous servant!! God's blessing to all the compassionate people in this world!

going to La...Sept 11-19 2005 was a very good feel to help strangers in need..I was able to stay at the Chaple on LSU campus..The family of church folks there were wonderful God loving giving everyday people. They were un tired by the constant flow of stranger some were Doctors an many nurses who walked out of er's from there city's across America to come and give time an care for no pay .. compassion was the reason..simply amazing and a great show of souls from the USA..God Bless u all ..very humbled to help .

I hope Phil and Donna take time to read many of these notes to realize how inspiring they are to many of us, especially those who have worked with Phil as he labored at Oak Ridge trying to make America a better place. I am sure God is well pleased with his faithful servants Phil and Donna.

Phil you need to know that a few hours after the story hit the internet it was all over Washingtion and was even passed around at the CHP Team meeting today.

God Bless you both

Almost every denomination and/or religious organization has a volunteer network that can be tapped into by anyone. The Desire to serve is the key component. And don't forget - it's not just the Gulf Coast and NOLA that need volunteers - there are thousands of flooded towns throughout the Midwest, Appalachia, and folks burned out of their homes in the West who also need help. United Animal Nation and Best Friends Sanctuary also offer volunteers a chance to help the animals affected by these crises.

It's funny how God can use such a catastrophe to bring people together in such an amazing way. Who cares which group got there first or whatever, it's to God's glory not our own isn't it. And it shouldn't be to get kudos - it is about helping others whether in Louisiana or anywhere else. Anyone that reaches out to help another deserves thanks.

I am appalled that some folks would use this forum to promote other causes.

This is a simple story about two good Christiam Americans who have given of themselves to help others.

For this I commend you.

Were it not for the Faith-based groups and true Christians(teens to seniors-youth who raised funds or did item or food drives) nothing would have gotten done to speak of! Shame on America! Thailand and the Islands REBUILT FASTER THAN WE ARE. There is truly no excuse for the Mess that still exists and the 100's of 1000's of Homeless and still-Refugees. may GOD richly Bless all those who have helped, in any small way (including saying faithful prayers!)!
(and shame on our president who could have made such a major impact, but chose not to...)

Everyone who has helped in Katrina devastated portions of the Gulf Coast is amazing. While I mean that with all sincerity it is a bit annoying that the religious organizations are being touted as those who helped most. A week after Katrina hit when I was there, other then the Southern Baptists (who were amazing) and the small group of menonites and The Salvation Army (both also amazing) there were no other outsiude religious organizations immediately present.

nice, god bless you and thanks

Every day in America and across the world there are those who are less fortunate and in need. God moves the hearts of the faithful to do what we can and I think that giving of one's time and energy demonstrates the heart of God. Time is something that seems to be in short supply in today's fast paced world, so praise God for all those who take the time to care. This should be an example for all people of faith to reach out to those in need. The world can seem dismal at times when one watches the nightly news, but folks like these give me hope that God's hand is still upon us. Keep up the good work.

It's great what volunteers are doing. It's amazing to me, though, that our government still hasn't rebuilt this area and really helped the people whose homes and lives were destroyed here -- especially while,
at the same time, it's continued to spend billions in Iraq!

(1)I worked in New Orleans in Feb. 2006 for a week with a group (ages 16 - 76) from Green Mountain United Methodist Church in Denver, CO. We paid our own way down, brought tools and gear and our own food, and slept on the floor of the First UMC of Kenner with 100 other volunteers. We came back exhausted but inspired and buoyed by the people we served. A second GMUMC group went down this year. We plan to return next year but in the meantime are planning a week of rebuilding from the tornadoes in Kansas. Thanks to all for your wonderful messages and to the other volunteers for your tireless work. (2) I worked in Biloxi, New Orleans and Slidell for a week in Feb. 2007 with 29 other Kaiser Permanente employees from around the country. KP paid our trip costs and we used vacation time. In 2008 KP is sending groups for one week in NOLA and one in Biloxi.

I would like to start by thanking our gracious Father in Heaven for the opportunity I have had to work side by side with Phil & Donna Fairchild for the last year! We could not have accomplished what we did if it had not been for this gracious couple. Phil with his sparkling blue eyes and Donna with her beautiful, loving smile kept me going some days when I felt like giving up! THANK YOU!!!

I would like to thank ALL the volunteers who have made this mission possible. By your kindness, compassion, and generosity, you have made this all possible. You have personally touched me and kepted the fire burning in my heart. THANK YOU!!!

Phil...Donna...if you get bored, you know where to find us.

Eric Church
Camp Gulfside
Waveland, MS

I was blessed to spend a week in Waveland with the the FAIRCHILDS on a trip from the Maryville Tenn. United Methodists youth group. i was the cook for a week so the workers could go out to the construction sites and help rebuild houses and lives. Iwiil never forget this wonderful experience of sharing Gods love.

Katrina was big, but God is bigger! I have been blessed to be able to make several trips to Waveland and have take back so much more than I gave. Thanks to all of the volunteers who have helped to make a difference.

My child and I lived in Bay St. Louis before and after Katrina. I hear everyone, including the news, always talking about New Orleans. So I would like to take time to thank all of you from the bottom of my heart who have helped us and are continuing to help those on the coastal areas of Mississippi and Alabama.

New Orleans is very grateful to all those that have volunteered. It is not an easy place to help sometimes, but I think that the little miracles that have happened since Katrina have made all the effort worthwhile.

And it isn't just volunteers that we need(though you are loved and appreciated). If you just want to come down here and visit, tourism dollars are always appreciated. We love our tourists(as long they aren't throwing up on Bourbon Street). We have more restaurants here now than we did before Katrina. There is plenty to see and plenty to enjoy about this city.

I moved back here from Washington DC after living away for 5 years. I like living here so much more than I did living in DC. I wasn't here for Katrina, though almost every friend I have did at the time. I saw them struggle. Some of them ended up as far away as California and Massachusetts. Their lives uprooted and unsure. But all but two came back. Because nothing is like living here. I have several other friends moving back down here as well. Lawyers from New York, a financial wiz from DC, Consultants, etc. And we all love this place so much that we had to return.

I guess it is hard to explain to people who haven't gotten to know this place at the local level. Haven't gotten to know the life under all the partying and crime. I think how lucky I am to be back down here every day. Nothing felt like home after I moved away. This place feels like home and I am proud to be here to make this place better than ever.

So a big "Welcome! And thank you for coming down!" to all those who want to come down here to help and one as well for those who just want to come and visit us.