In Carter County, Tennessee, the Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) has revealed a key appointment, naming Ralph Jeffers as their new volunteer coordinator.

The announcement was shared via social media on Tuesday, highlighting Jeffers’ extensive background in volunteer engagement from his previous role as a youth minister.

In an interview with News Channel 11 on Thursday, Jeffers expressed his familiarity with volunteer coordination, especially in rebuilding efforts.

“My experience spans church, vocational endeavors, student and college ministry,” Jeffers explained. “A significant aspect has involved organizing community service initiatives and leading both short-term and long-term service projects with organizations like Appalachia Service Project and Habitat for Humanity.”

Additionally, Jeffers has collaborated with non-profits to aid regions devastated by hurricanes.

He conveyed his enthusiasm about contributing to Carter County’s recovery from the flooding damage inflicted by Hurricane Helene.

“To be able to work alongside what’s really a resilient people here in Carter County and continue rebuilding homes, and really restoring hope, because I think that’s what it’s about a lot of the time. It is doing repairs and rebuilding, but just trying to restore that hope as well. I’m really excited about it, and I’ve already learned a lot about it.”

Both local and out-of-area volunteers have brought a special energy and aided in the recovery process in Carter County, according to Jeffers.

“It’s a year in, and a lot has been done,” Jeffers said. “But there’s still so much to do. I think probably a five to seven-year recovery process still. And so there’s so much work to be done, but we’re continuing to, and that’s part of this position is to continue to mobilize, organize and connect volunteers with a lot of the partner agencies.”

Jeffers reminded people that while it has been more than a year since Helene, there are still plenty of affected people in need. He encouraged others to volunteer to help the community heal.