Thanking the volunteers who helped with recovery
First, a big thank you to all of the amazing people who have come to share in Lyons’ Flood Memorial. And a special thank you for the creativity and planning for all of the associated events and the theme of Grit Grace and Gratitude. And there are some other words that come to mind… Strength, resilience and cooperation.
Our little town has dealt with a lot over that last 10 years… not only did we endure the flood, but we survived the recovery, we have also endured the threat of wildfire, a significant gasoline spill, and, of course, the still hovering pandemic… And we all know that significant disasters do not change the universe’s course of personal problems and loss, it just adds to them. But here we are, so fortunate, so together.
Immediately after the rush of swift water that devastated our little town we were flooded again, but with a wonderful and overwhelming rush of help…volunteers from all over the area, many places across the world…and of course the groundswell of energy and effort of our own residents. Skilled first responders like:
Team Rubicon – who knew what to do and how to reassure everyone that help was coming
Lifebridge Church – which provided tools and help organizing
The National Guard – who helped us feel safer
The Red Cross – Here so fast and so much help in so many ways
The Salvation Army – Who didn’t have at least a few meals?
Calvary Relief — Curt and Mary Jo Hency
The Samaritan’s Purse
Catholic Charities
Boulder County
FEMA
And, of course Lyons Volunteers (now a part of Lyons Emergency Assistance Fund, LEAF)
The Town leadership dove in and did not miss a beat pursuing solutions to the long list of needs, one of which was to find a way to coordinate and direct the influx of willing helpers. Edward Keane was charged with organizing local and out of town groups to make sure that the help was coordinated and focused. That gave birth to Lyons Volunteers, with so many local residents and people throughout the area.
And so many who came to help soon after armed with hands and hearts and willing to wield shovels and go home with sore muscles and smiling faces. Everyone who pick up a shovel, or carried people and materials in their vehicles, or who consoled their neighbors, and who did so many things for our little town…give yourselves an internal hug…and feel good that our town is still here and thriving. All should be recognized and heartily thanked!
……………Barney Dreistadt, Lyons Volunteers
NOTE: See also the “10 Year Remembrance Ceremony” ARTICLE for more information on heroic deeds done by volunteers, particularly First Responders.
