How Volunteer Teams Are Powering Long-Term Recovery in Western NC

In this conversation, I had the privilege of sitting down with my friend Richard Brunson, Executive Director of Baptist On Mission—one of the most extraordinary forces of hope and hands-on service in North Carolina.Richard shares the heart behind their 17 ministries, including the disaster relief teams so many of us in Western North Carolina have come to know well, especially since Hurricane Helene. From mobile medical units reaching remote communities to volunteers rebuilding homes one nail at a time, their work reminds us what happens when compassion moves into action.What encouraged me most is how hope grows when people show up. This recovery will take time, but as Richard says so beautifully, “We glorify God by meeting human needs.” And that is exactly what Baptist On Mission has done—finishing more than 617 homes and offering thousands of families a path forward.If you care about Western North Carolina’s future, about rebuilding stronger communities, or about the power of volunteers to multiply impact, you’ll be inspired by this conversation.I’d love to hear your thoughts—what gives you hope right now in your community?🌿 Stay Connected & Join the Work in Western North CarolinaIf you’d like to follow more stories of recovery, community strength, and the people rebuilding Western North Carolina, here’s where you can find us:Instagram: ➡️ https://www.instagram.com/thesharondeckerTapestry Collaborative (Nonprofit): ➡️ https://www.tapestrycollaborative.comWNC Recovery Resources & How to Help: ➡️ https://wncrecovery.nc.govIf you’d like to receive invitations to upcoming events, updates on recovery efforts, and weekly reflections, sign up for our email newsletter.KeywordsBaptist On Mission, disaster relief, community support, volunteer engagement, recovery efforts, Western North Carolina, Helene recovery, humanitarian aid, church involvement, rebuilding homes, Richard Brunson, Sharon DeckerTakeawaysBaptist On Mission has 17 different ministries.Disaster relief is the most recognized ministry.Mobile dental and health units serve remote areas.Community support is crucial during recovery efforts.Volunteers provide both physical and emotional support.Long-term recovery requires sustained commitment.Grants from the state significantly aid rebuilding efforts.Hope is a critical component of disaster recovery.The church plays a vital role in community support.Engaging volunteers can multiply the impact of funds.Chapters00:00 Introduction and Background of Baptist On Mission06:49 Disaster Relief Efforts and Community Support16:55 Long-term Recovery and Volunteer Engagement23:53 Gratitude and Future Outlook