I have been told I have a ‘servants heart’. If I do, I thank God for the gift and the opportunity to exercise that gift.”
~ Ron Earley
KANSAS CITY — Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) leaders and volunteers gathered on Jan. 23 to honor those who exhibited great selflessness and determination in the aftermath of a disaster. Around 150 people attended, representing 42 state convention teams and the North American Mission Board (NAMB) staff.
SBDR leaders from across North America gathered to assess the previous year, discuss ways to enhance their effectiveness and recognize exemplary service.
Recipients were chosen after their respective state directors nominated them for the award.
The SBDR steering committee, which is made up of state disaster relief directors from across the United States, then voted to determine the award winners.
Six disaster relief volunteers received Distinguished Service Awards for their exceptional service in SBDR, including Ron Earley, who serves through the SBC of Virginia.
Ron has been a part of SBCV Disaster Relief since his first deployment following Hurricane Katrina. He has served in all disaster relief ministry areas as Yellow Hat and Blue Hat (or Unit Leader) and has also been trained and served on Incident Command Teams many times. He also has served as a trainer for many years and recently wrapped up a three-year assignment on the National Feeding Committee.
Thank you!
SBC of Virginia Disaster Relief ministry would not exist without the volunteers that sacrifice time and money to Go and Serve. From team leaders to weekly warehouse workers in Lynchburg, Virginia, to all of the hundreds of Gold Hats, we thank God for each one of you and your commitment to our Lord Jesus. While we do not desire for disasters to strike, we do look forward to serving with you when the inevitable does happen. Thank you for all you do! ■
When you’ve seen a disaster on the news in the last 50 years, what you may not have seen is the Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (SBDR) volunteers who were already on the scene through their local church — and they remained long after news cameras left town. DR volunteers bring Help, Healing, and Hope to those who have lost so much.
Resource: Please consider becoming a part of this vital ministry. For more information, visit: sbcv.org/dr
