Since its founding in 2001, World Cares Center has responded to disasters around the globe.
COVID-19- 2020……
Within days of COVID-19 becoming a pandemic, World Cares Center developed and launched four new COVID-19 trainings in English and Spanish. We began distributing the N95 respirators we had to frontline responders including nurses, doctors, firefightersand volunteers and then purchased additional PPE to ensure we could continue to keep responders safe until government stockpiles were filled. We continue to distribute PPE, train and hold roundtables so that everyone can access resources
Hurricane Maria in Puerto Rico – 2017
Upon the request of the Puerto Rico Department of Health, WCC immediately deployed to provide guidance and senior management in setting up the public health response for volunteers coordination/reception centers (VRC) across the island.
A VRC is a hub where volunteers of all kinds are registered, trained, and matched with agencies in need as well as deployed in teams directly from the VRC to serve the community. During our initial deployment, WCC coordinated with partners including Universidad Metropolitana and IMPACTIVO.
WCC also provided training to volunteer groups deployed to the impacted territories. The training focused on safe and effective flood response, and all participating trainees were given personal protective equipment to remain safe in their efforts.
Hurricane Harvey – 2017
WCC was deployed to Texas as part of the NIEHS-affiliated New York/New Jersey Hazardous Waste Worker Training Program Harvey Response team. We delivered hazard identification and disaster response training to VOAD members and faith-based groups in the region.
Superstorm Sandy – 2012
WCC, well prepared due to its Hurricane Irene response, opened three volunteer reception centers in Brooklyn, Far Rockaway, and Staten Island, spontaneous volunteers who mucked and gutted over 500 homes, preparing them for a rebuild. WCC also trained over volunteers in flood safety and response.
Hurricane Irene – 2011
WCC led the coordination of volunteer groups, providing muck-and–gut services across New Jersey. Working with NJ211, New Jersey State Police, NJ VOAD, and dozens of volunteer groups, WCC managed over 1,200 requests for support. This response led to the development of World Cares Center’s Flood Response Training co-developed with the Southern Baptists Response Team.
New York City Earthquake
Though little damage occurred, this event was reminiscent of 9/11. Building managers had not prepared for an earthquake and mixed messages added to the fear. WCC quickly responded by launching earthquake safety training for facility managers.
Hurricane Katrina – 2005
In concert with the University of New Orleans and FEMA, WCC assisted in local volunteer management and the development of Welcome Home Centers.
The NYC Blackout – 2003
WCC transformed the September Space Community Resilience Center into a temporary shelter and call center for stranded individuals in the NYC area.
Aftermath of 9/11
The work behind World Cares Center emerged during this time when the September Space Community Resilience Center was set up to serve as a healing space for volunteers and emergency responders.
