Churches of Scientology Disaster Response Host Volunteer Appreciation Ceremony

Online, August 29, 2011 (Newswire.com) - Even a funnel cloud has a silver lining. So it was proven in Alabama, when April's tornadoes-some of the worst in US history-brought out the best in humanity.

After sixty-two tornadoes devastated Alabama on April 27, many organizations dedicated their time and resources to cleaning up the debris, repairing the damage and assisting survivors. Coming together under the umbrella of the Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (VOAD), volunteer agencies were able to coordinate their efforts and send help where it was needed most.

Four months later, these organizations were brought together for a different reason, one that was perhaps as unexpected as April's twisters. This time, the call was for a dinner and appreciation ceremony.

Governor Robert Bentley issued a Commendation which read in part, "...more than 326,000 volunteer hours were documented during the disaster response phase." First Lady of Alabama Diana Bentley was an honored guest at the event and graciously thanked the volunteers for their hard work during the days after the tornadoes and their continuing service to the citizens of Alabama in long term recovery operations.

Some of the organizations which were present for the ceremony were the Adventist Disaster Response, Catholic Charities, Hands on Birmingham, ICNA Relief, Lutheran Disaster Response, Mennonite Disaster Response and more.

The special event was organized by the Alabama Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster along with the Governor's Office of Faith Based and Community Initiatives, and was hosted by the Churches of Scientology Disaster Response.

Joava Good, team leader for the Churches of Scientology Disaster Response, remarked that "it was an honor to serve the citizens of Alabama. The wonderful people in the Pratt City, Birmingham and Tuscaloosa areas are strong, resilient and loving people. It was an honor working with them and all of the volunteer organizations."

For more information on the VOAD, visit www.nvoad.org. For more information on the Governor's response to the tornadoes, visit www.governor.alabama.gov.