Melissa Rodriguez and Sarah Moore LIVE UNITED by “help families with special needs navigate the tornado recovery process!” United Way’s Volunteer Connection is proud to recognize them as Community Volunteers of the Month for August.

Melissa Rodriguez, a native Californian and retired air force member, and Sarah Moore (who had just moved back to the area earlier this year) saw major damage in the area immediately after the Memorial Day storms and saw that the Shiloh Church, which was close to damaged areas, was active in recovery. “The first time I met Melissa she was giving out grills in the rain!” says Sarah. Familiar with grassroots efforts, the women joined with other volunteers in immediate storm relief such as assembling home kits. As it became apparent that many of the clients they were working with no longer had homes, their work shifted to assistance with the navigation of systems such as FEMA and non-profits, on behalf of those they have come to know.

Lifelong volunteers, they believe that in a “volunteer economy, with non-monetary incentives – you have to find the thing that gets you going!” Sarah is also involved with Junior League, while Melissa has been active in several types of social justice work. They have both put in countless hours in their current mission.

Pastor Jay McMillen of Shiloh Church says that the storm efforts have been “a true journey of grace and love, being extended to those who have faced the ultimate in trials and tribulations. We are all humbled to do what we can.”

United Way’s Volunteer Connection is proud to salute Melissa Rodriguez and Sarah Moore as Volunteers of the Month for September, 2019.