Congratulations to these three finalists in the Disaster Response Award category of the 38th Annual Mary Catherine Strobel Volunteer Awards! Join us May 9 to see which finalist is chosen as the recipient, and will receive $1,000 to donate to the charity of their choice!
Johnny Rodman
Light in The Storm Disaster Relief
Through his faith-based nonprofit, Light in The Storm Disaster Relief, Johnny Rodman provides more than disaster relief to families across the Southeast U.S. — he provides heart and connection. When disaster strikes, he is first on the scene, dedicating time and resources to help those in need by any means necessary, including tarping homes, cutting down trees, reconstructing roofs, and more. In the past year alone, Johnny has served 86 families through Light in The Storm, and beyond physical efforts, he’s gone the extra mile to give these families supplies, clothes, toys, and above all, a sense of normalcy.
“He is always first on the scene in any disaster response and the last to leave. Once the initial wave of volunteers have moved on, you will find him still working with families and homes long after others have left.” — Andrew Jamieson, Johnny’s nominator
Matthew Leddy
Hands On Nashville
Matthew Leddy’s dedication, thoughtfulness and leadership in the wake of tragedy have impacted countless lives and neighborhoods. When a tornado struck Middle Tennessee in December 2023, he more than rose to the occasion, immediately volunteering through Hands On Nashville to help with the toughest tasks, such as cleaning, clearing debris, demolition, and more. He consistently went the extra mile, prioritized safety, and lent a hand to volunteers and survivors — long after the news cameras had left.
“What sets Matt apart is his incredible dedication, positivity, and willingness to go the extra mile. He would always bring extra tools and supplies just in case it was needed for the day; he always stayed longer to help finish the day’s work, clean and pack up.” — Paulina Robles, Matthew’s nominator
Emmit Martin
Hands On Nashville
Inspirational, effective, and dedicated to the dirty work, Emmit Martin has worked tirelessly to assist with recovery after the December 2023 tornadoes. He volunteered with Hands On Nashville almost every day for the two weeks following the disaster and continually served and supported this response for months, delivering food, organizing highest-need efforts, removing debris, and more. Emmit stepped up as a leader, creating a safe and efficient environment, supplying his own resources and equipment, and above all, working to offer survivors a sense of normalcy.
“What sets Emmit apart is both his willingness to devote personal resources (vehicles, trailers, tools) to the cause, as well as his sustained commitment to do as such weeks and months after the initial volunteer wave had dwindled.” — Paulina Robles, Emmit’s nominator
The Disaster Response Award recognizes individuals or groups who made a significant contribution to disaster relief, preparation, or mitigation and prevention in 2023. Want to see all of this year’s finalists? Visit handsonnashville.wordpress.com.