Michigan Electrician/Habitat Etc, Needs Tips to Get Donated Tools, Take to NO,LA

[sparkie]

Hello,

I have spent a week trying to get some organization to accept my help. I have decided that I will be a self-dispatched volunteer to New Orleans. I feel "propelled & driven" to go to the heart of it-New Orleans. I made a long list of my experiences, strengths, etc. Maybe too long but when I get on an idea I grind on it!

Short List

*Licensed electrician, commercial w/ residential experience
*Former MP SGT/Prison Guard, US Army
*Working knowledge of most construction trades
*Nurses Aide training
*Driver-2.5 ton military trucks, buses, etc
*Much volunteer experience
and More..

I have a 2 wheel drive F150 but ideally, I would like to get a 4 wheel drive, super cab p/u truck loaned to me (local dealership or one of the auto makers in Detroit), a laoner trailer (& gas card). Then fill w/ donated tools, materials & emergency needs. Then drive myself to NO from Michigan. I bet I could specialize in generators.

In a nutshell: I have many traditional male skills & most female skills. Kindof like 2 people in one. Also, I believe my experiences/skills are an unusual conbination that enables me to do nearly anything. Any suggestions on how to best help? Which organization to get connected w/ there when they will take me. I plan to be self-sufficient until I am "adopted".

But, I am stumped on how to get the first donations. I'd like to have a better plan then just cold calling businesses and say "Hi, I am Jane Schmuck. Will you give me 5 generators?"

How to get sponsored/endorsed?

Please share w/ me any ideas/thoughts you may have. I searched the internet but found little info.

Thank You,
Sparkie in southern Michigan

[meanjoybug5]

Sparkle---Are you an AA member? The AA groups in and around Baton Rouge would be able to give you help and direction. Also, with your military experience have you tried the local VFW or Local National Guards? Most are deployed currently, but they may be able to give you a hand in getting things rolling. Also, contact the local PTA and Local Union for Electricians, they may be organizing relief efforts that you could join. Also, if all else fails, simply get with a couple local churches, donations of gas and other supplies plus man/woman power could be available. Others want to help also, and organized bands of volunteers are much needed. They still need lots of help in areas other than New Orleans. Hope this is helpful.

[sparkie]

Meanjoybug5...........


Thanks for all the great ideas! I, w/ some great help from Rhode Island and going forward w/ an organization that I am creating. Also, the local Red Cross called me today to go south for several weeks. I can do both.

Thanks Again! :cool:
Sparkie

[vervilledeb1]

Sparkie,

I want to wish you a safe trip from all of us here at LiveWire! Remember to stay in touch. ;) I will still be working on the other contacts nothing is impossible.

Stay Safe!
Debby

[sparkie]

Thanks Debby------

I'll keep in touch, one way or another. Did not hear anything from Red Cross today (Sunday). I imagine I'll find out for sure tomorrow.

Bye, Sparkie

[meanjoybug5]

Sparkie,

Well---We may meet up on the trail hun. My step-son and I are heading to NOLA. To work cable TV and be Nico's Eyes and Ears on the ground. If you need contacts and info in the area just let me know. If you go to Alabama let me know, I live only 2 hours from Huntsville. Until later.

Joybug

[sparkie]

Hi Meanjoybug & son,

I'll be lookin' for you in the gulf area. Calling red cross as I write this to see if
i leave tomorrow. I do not leave tomorrow :mad: , but soon. Oh, hurry & wait Sounds like the Army.

Bye, Sparkie

[sparkie]

Ya, Patience...I Know

Yah, I tired myself out trying to get a volunteer assignment from anyone weeks ago! That's why I started STO-MAC, Skilledd Trades of Michigan Aiding Citizens. One of your fellow GREAT Mods, verville1 is assisting me. :D

I plan to do both, Red Cross WHENEVER & STO-MAC later. STO-MAC plans to stop in NO,LA first to drop off generators, tools, etc. Then, whereever can help best. ALso wanna spend alittle time w/ Veterans for Peace, link: http://www.vfproadtrips.org/katrina/

Thanks for writing. I'll keep you posted on both activities.

Oh, T. Storm Rita ? is heading towards TX. W/ Gulf of Mexico hurricanes, EAST of the eye gets it worse than west. NO, LA is east!! Be careful.
Bye, SParkie

[WannaKnow]

Is STO-MAC an active project still?