How a ragtag group of volunteers started a global disaster relief organization after Haiti's devastating 2010 earthquake
(0:04) Kelly Ann Ruda, a former travel agent and teacher, unexpectedly becomes a valued member of Team Rubicon, a veteran-led nonprofit organization that supports communities affected by disasters. Despite lacking typical disaster relief skills, Kelly accepts the difficult task of carrying debris and using a chainsaw during the dispatch, and finds the team rewarding in contributing to his Rubicon mission. I feel it.
(4:37) Originally founded by military veterans in response to the 2010 earthquake that devastated Haiti, Team Rubicon grew from a small group led by Brother. Jim Boynton (South Carolina) joins a global organization of diverse volunteers providing disaster relief around the world.
(9:33) Brother. Jim describes how key volunteers and medical professionals bandaged wounds and treated victims in the first hours and days after the earthquake, responding to the overwhelming need.
(13:43) I've seen and treated too much pain, brother. Jim talks about the need for volunteers to break the ice and find camaraderie with each other. He expressed his gratitude to the veterans who lent their skills to his efforts.
(17:25) After the earthquake, rumors about the group's efforts spread. Brother. Jim talks about the origin of the name “Team Rubicon” and how efforts to respond to natural disasters around the world rapidly expanded in the years following the earthquake.
(24:33) Gary Gamble, a 62-year-old Marine Corps veteran, talks about his experience since joining Team Rubicon following the 2021 flooding in the city of Detroit.
(29:09) Kelly talks about the unity felt among the members of Team Rubicon. Team Rubicon's gray shirts visibly demonstrate their camaraderie and common mission. Although the work is demanding, she says it is definitely a rewarding experience to help people who are suffering get their lives back on track. She talks about what makes it worth it.
Report by Daniel Meloy. Narrated by Gabriela Patti. Screenplay by Casey McCauley.Producer: Ron Pangborn
Family love is eternal. The gift of lasting love is to plan your final resting place in advance. Planning a burial site in advance provides peace of mind for loved ones. This will ensure that your wishes are met and that no financial burden or unnecessary stress is left on those left behind. Give yourself and those you love the gift of inner peace. Contact a Family Services Advisor at Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services today. Visit cfcsdetroit.org or call (734) 285-2155.
Listen to “Detroit Stories” on Apple Podcasts, YouTube, and Spotify. Podcasts are also posted biweekly on his DetroitCatholic.com.
