Recovering Oklahomans After Disaster (ROAD)

Recovering Oklahomans After Disaster, also known as ROAD, is a 501(c)3 nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting disaster survivors in Oklahoma. Established on September 14, 2018, by Chad Detwiler, Kevin Walker, and Hal Wright, the organization received its 501(c)3 designation shortly after its founding with pro-bono assistance from Crowe and Dunlevy, Attorneys and Counselors at Law[1].

Mission

ROAD's mission is to build community resiliency across Oklahoma by providing hope to disaster survivors in long-term recovery. The organization focuses on project and volunteer management, servicing home repair needs, awareness and advocacy, preparedness and mitigation services, particularly for vulnerable populations who lack the means to recover on their own[3].

Services

ROAD offers a range of home repair services, including roof tarping, muck-outs, debris cleanup, roofing, drywall, insulation, flooring, and siding, using volunteer labor and donated materials. They maintain the DIRRT database, where disaster case managers enter work orders, assessment requests, and bid reviews to facilitate the recovery process[3][4].

Membership and Partnerships

ROAD is a member of the Oklahoma Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (OKVOAD), working alongside other organizations to meet post-disaster needs. They have endorsements from entities like the OK United Methodist Disaster Response, Mennonite Disaster Services, OK Emergency Management, and the Center for Disaster Philanthropy[1].

Programs and Initiatives

In response to the challenges posed by COVID-19, ROAD developed a Vocational Training Apprenticeship Program, launched in November 2020, in partnership with Career Tech and Green Country WorkForce. This program helps in utilizing volunteer labor effectively during times when traditional volunteer teams may not be available[1].

Financial Transparency

ROAD is transparent in its operations, filing the necessary Form 990 to maintain accountability as a tax-exempt organization in the United States[4]. The organization's primary focus is on utilizing free labor resources to aid in disaster response and recovery, ensuring that every dollar donated maximizes the impact on the community[4].

Leadership

Chad E. Detwiler serves as the President and CEO of Recovering Oklahomans After Disaster[4]. The organization ensures that its leadership and programs are aligned with its mission to serve disaster survivors effectively.