At Ease Since Day One

I first learned about Team Rubicon when sitting with my mother watching the news as Hurricane Harvey hit. I felt overwhelmingly helpless and knew I needed to get out there and do something to help. I‘d been volunteering throughout my life, but none of the organizations I worked with were doing the unique work that Team Rubicon was.

When I found TR, I was immediately drawn to the mission. So I signed up and deployed to Texas for Operation Hard Hustle. Knowing I’d be surrounded by mostly veterans crossed my mind; I wondered if they’d treat me differently or if they’d look down on me for never serving in the military. But none of that happened. I was welcomed with open arms just as all Greyshirts are. I’ve felt at ease from day one.

Since I returned from Texas, I’ve stayed involved with TR. Most recently, I joined Operation Old Breed to help out my San Diego neighbors affected by the Lilac Fire. It never ceases to amaze me how people from totally different backgrounds and beliefs can come together from all over the country purely to accomplish a mission that we are all passionate about – helping out when we can.

TR provides such an incredible opportunity to learn and grow your skill set. I did just that with muck-outs and learning the chop saw. More importantly, it allows you the chance to grow as a person. It is a space where we can come together to accomplish great things, all becoming better people along the way to just be who we are without judgement.  

Through TR, I’ve learned the true meaning of camaraderie and I wouldn’t change a moment of it. Plus, the reminder that there are great people out there in the world is never a bad thing.