When Winter Story Greyson dumped record snowfall on Providence, RI, I called Providence Emergency Management Agency to see if there was something I could do. In my conversations with them, I quickly discovered there were several senior citizens in the community who weren’t able to dig themselves out.
Our strike teams visited seven homes throughout the day shoveling driveways, sidewalks, and front walks to ensure residents homes were accessible. The people we helped were mostly elderly, and the operation stayed within the city of Providence.
A lot of work goes into making sure Team Rubicon can mobilize members and resources to an area where our services will benefit the community. I focused on organizing responding members, fielding questions, organizing work orders as they came in, and coordinating with outside groups. Serving as the IC allowed me to see the whole picture of the operation and taught me to rely on people on the team and the specialties they bring to the table. I learned a lot through the hands-on aspect of planning for this operation and took on new responsibilities in the process.
I am proud of the teamwork that went into setting up this operation so quickly. From the amazing coordination with the City of Providence and PEMA to the TR leaders that helped me bring this operation to life.
Volunteering and service have been important aspects of my life. Team Rubicon gives me an opportunity to serve, and to be a leader in my community.
