We watched the sky apprehensively, hoping that the low gray clouds would not bring rain, at least until later in the day. The clock ticked and cars began to pull in. Volunteers and walkers, young and not so young assembled near big Bird, our field Volunteer Coordinating Center prior to beginning their walk in Grant Park (Atlanta, Georgia). The rain held off and the walk to help others began.
Childhood obesity is a problem with far reaching consequences. The Disaster Group, Inc. was privileged to work a fund raising project with Arms of Love, Inc. and Unity In Disasters, Inc., two Atlanta based not-for-profit organizations to help address the issue. Funds raised through this event will go toward educational and remedial programs to reduce this serious childhood health issue. Sandra Gresham, CEO, Arms of Love – Grocery relief Co-Op and Joe Gilliom, President, Unity in Disasters, Inc. worked together to move the idea forward from an idea to reality. We are informed that this will become an annual event with the goal of making a real and lasting impact with families.
While walkers made their circuit of Grant Park, Joe briefed Andy Jones, The Disaster Group, Inc. President and CEO, on the still unresolved problems in Mississippi (hurricane Isaac) and New York/New Jersey (hurricane Sandy) recovery work. These areas are still devastated and wil require long term commitments of volunteers and materiel to complete even modest recovery.
Andrew Jones reaffirmed our interest in assisting wherever possible. "The Disaster Group, Inc. has an ongoing commitment to supporting disaster relief in all of its forms and was pleased to have been invited to participate."
LINKS to these not-for-profit organizations
Arms of Love, Inc. grocery relief co-op
Young people helped to organize and participated as well
Andrew Jones, The Disaster Group, Inc. President/CEO conducts participants on Volunteer Coordinating Center tour
Joe Gilliom briefs Andrew Jones
Sandra Gresham and Joe Gilliom
