Posted on Sunday, September 4, 2011 by
Michael •
The devastation from Hurricane Irene in many Vermont towns is hard to fully comprehend. The photos coming out of central and southern regions of the state paint a startling picture (e.g., here’s one set).
And the response from Vermonters is just as extraordinary. Witness these sample Front Porch Forum postings…
We’ve lost half a house but we’ve gained a community. I’ve never experienced being carried through a devastating event by large numbers of friends, neighbors, and complete strangers before. Thank you Moretown and out-of-town volunteers for your heart-breaking generosity.
And from Cambridge FPF…
In 36 hours you donated about 3 tons of food and supplies as well as $3,000 in support of Hurricane Irene flooding victims. The goods were sorted and repacked by an enthusiastic group and loaded into a dump truck and covered trailer. At 6:00 AM Saturday Jack and Adam will head out for a distribution center in Bennington, probably detouring through New York State to avoid road closings.
And we’re seeing hundreds more Irene-related postings on FPF in dozens of towns… from those seeking help, as well as those ready to give. Vermont is an incredible place.
Posted in: Civic Engagement, Community Building, e-Vermont, Front Porch Forum, Knight Foundation, Local Online, Neighborhood, Neighborhood Watch, social capital, Social Media, Social Networking, Stories, Vermont