ShelterBox
Jen Kormendy
Ginny Lowood introduced Jen Kormendy who was intrigued by the ShelterBox programme when learning about it at a Rotary presentation. She followed up by joining up to serve as a member of the response team to assist in disaster areas. After going through the assessment and training process she has traveled in various parts of the world helping families who have suffered in all types of calamities.
ShelterBox is an international disaster relief organization that delivers aid to families that have suffered with the devastation of their homes for different reasons. It received its start as a Millenium Rotary project in Cornwall England. Since its inception it has provided assistance in over 300 disaster areas. Unfortunately over 88 million people on average lose their homes annually but only one in five receive much-needed help. Shelter is more than a roof over one's head; it provides security while creating a base for recovery. Usually ShelterBox is the first organization to arrive after the disaster strikes. The green shelter boxes that contain a tent, tools, utensils, blankets, solar lights and a water filter make their way to the site by jeeps, helicopters, donkeys, bicycles and all manner of transportation.
The ShelterBox programme is evolving by undergoing constant mentoring and assessment. The evolution has resulted in the introduction of the shelter kit which is made up of a tarp and tools that can help in the immediate recovery process. Every community is different and every disaster unique. Hence the workers are constantly adapting to make use of the supplies that are prepositioned around the globe. The programme works with other charitable and relief partners but its main partner is Rotary International which it finds to be the most effective agency to work with.
Jen spoke about her work and involvement which began in 2008 with a demanding training session in England that tested her psychologically as well as physically. Handling stress and adjusting to changing circumstances is very much part of the job. She finds great satisfaction in being on the front line response team where she continues to serve in areas around the world. Liz Ellis, the International Committee chairperson, thanked Jen for her dedication and her presentation while looking forward to learning more about her ShelterBox experiences.