Hello, my name is Jason Barnhill—a dedicated disaster response volunteer. Over the past several years, I've proudly deployed to 12 relief operations across the country with Team Rubicon, one of the leading humanitarian aid organizations in the U.S. I've helped communities recover from hurricanes, floods, wildfires, and other devastating events.

In June, I was laid off from my full-time job, but my commitment to helping others remains strong. I recently deployed to California for wildfire mitigation, and soon I’ll be expanding my impact with All Hands and Hearts, another respected disaster relief organization.

While both organizations provide essentials during deployment—like lodging (often in churches or schools), meals, shower access via local gyms, basic medical and safety support, Wi-Fi or hotspot communication, and all necessary tools—there’s one major difference: Team Rubicon covers transportation expenses. All Hands and Hearts does not. This means I’m personally responsible for costs like airport mileage, flights, and baggage fees.

That’s why I’ve launched this fundraiser—to help cover modest travel expenses so I can continue responding to disasters while actively searching for my next full-time role. Filling out job applications day after day can feel exhausting, but being in the field helping those in need gives me purpose and a sense of fulfillment.

Some people spend their PTO traveling to Europe—I’ve used mine to muck out flood-damaged homes, remove fallen trees, and clear debris from fire zones. Every deployment brings relief, hope, and dignity to families who've lost so much—and your support helps make that possible.

You can learn more about my background and volunteer work on my LinkedIn profile.

Linkedin profile

Thank you for reading—and for any contribution you can make. It truly makes a difference.

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P.S. That photo captures me prepping for my first deployment—Hurricane Dorian in the Abaco Islands. It was a two-week field op in brutal conditions: 85 degrees with 85% humidity, every single day. I had to overhaul a lot of gear afterward to stay mission-ready. But honestly? That operation still ranks as one of the best experiences I’ve had.