After the Storm Caseworkers Now at UUMC

Remember the tornadoes and high winds that came through our area back in August 2023? When you drive east on I-96, you can still see the broken trees—especially near Williamston. Recovery from natural disasters takes time, especially when people lack access to assistance and resources.

After the Storm Michigan provides long-term recovery support to those affected by disasters. You can learn more on their website: https://afterthestormmi.org.

At the end of April 2025, four caseworkers (pictured in the photo) began working with local residents across the Greater Lansing Area who are still recovering from the 2023 storm. These caseworkers have partnered with our UUMC Missions Team and are now sharing space in the Missions Room on the lower level of the church. This space now serves as a local office for the caseworkers while continuing to function as a meeting room for the Missions Team and a storage area for donations sent to the Midwest Distribution Center for national disaster recovery efforts.

We welcome Paul, Erin, Ataia, and Brittany, and pray for the life-saving work they are doing right here in our community. When you see them at UUMC, please greet them and offer a warm welcome.

The After the Storm caseworkers will be based at UUMC for the next 12 to 18 months as they support local residents in rebuilding their lives. The resource coordinator has assured us that they will keep us informed if and when there are specific ways we, as a congregation, can help with needed resources.

(Pictured L-R: Paul Lacroix – Construction Analyst; Erin Mann – Resource Coordinator; Brittany Pazdan – Disaster Case Manager; Ataia Templeton –Disaster Case Manager)