Deborah Shurtz spoke to us about Austin Disaster Relief Network. Per their website, "Austin Disaster Relief Network (ADRN), a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization, is comprised of over 200 Greater Austin churches and thousands of trained volunteers bringing hope into crisis. ADRN’s network enables and empowers church members to organize, prepare, mobilize, and respond quickly in the event of disaster, great or small. Business partners, local agencies, and community support play a vital role in ADRN’s mission. It is through the generosity of their in-kind donations, monetary gifts, and volunteer assistance that ADRN can fund the rebuild/repair of survivor homes and provide immediate assistance to those in crisis." Deborah pointed out the number of disasters has increased in recent years and the number of days between disasters has decreased. Texas is one of the three most disaster-prone states in the U.S. Deborah told us about the losses that are suffered during a disaster, not just those that are visible, such as loss of life or property, but those that are invisible, such as the loss of memories, lifestyle, hope and stability. ADRN works to bring hope during disasters. They have training programs in place so that volunteers can deploy immediately when a disaster strikes, and partner with the City of Austin and other local groups to bring help to those who need it. ADRN also holds training events to help the community to prepare prior to a disaster, Red Cross training, and emotional response training to help victims process their feelings in a safe environment. ADRN provides gift cards and connections to repairs and financial services to disaster victims. Deborah showed us a couple of slides showing the help they provided to the community during Winter Storm Uri in 2021 and the 2022 tornadoes in the Round Rock area. ADRN relies on donations and volunteers to provide its services. They also have a thrift store where donations can be made. For more information, go to: www.adrn.org.