Getting Personal!

Getting Personal!

Many of us were glued to our news outlets on April 9th, 2015 when another series of tornadoes struck Illinois, this time just an hour from our homes. These storms came during our evening news, and closer to where many of us have our own personal connections to the communities.

Aerial photo of Fairdale, IL.

We were riveted by incoming storm warnings, and announcements of observed storm activity. Our pulses increased as funnel clouds were expected, and then observed. Our hearts sank as reports came back of damage, injuries, and sadly, deaths.

Welcome to Fairdale!

These storms, especially for those of us who either have lived through destruction in the past, or even simply came to help others, were particularly moving. The images of fallen homes, and destroyed lives, were haunting!

All too common view after the storm.

This brings us to why we are visiting Brookport this July. We have constant, and close reminders of the power of wind, and the destructive qualities of these storms. It is news stories such as these which help us better understand the depth of need for rebuilding and healing faced by our neighbors. It is the life stories which no longer cover the front pages which touch us in the relationships we build as we help these communities recover after the media, and our awareness, have long gone home.

Please come to help the people of Brookport, who are facing continued recovery with 14 homes currently under some stage of construction, and have plans to build at least another 30 homes on previously destroyed properties. There is also plenty of work needed on homes damaged by the storms. No matter your skill level, your heart and mind are still needed!