Trainings & Deployments From: LCMS Disaster Response & Training

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people, depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people, depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people, depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

This LCMS SED Disaster Response event is being listed in response to Hurricane Helene Relief efforts, which are taking place in Avery County and those surrounding (Watauga, Mitchell, Yancey, etc.).

The purpose of this volunteer opportunity is for participants to serve their neighbors with the love of Christ. This includes caring for the physical and spiritual needs of those impacted by the hurricane, spending time encouraging those affected with the many mercies of Jesus Christ.

Teams will be hosted primarily at Camp Linn Haven -an LCMS RSO- staying in the Retreat Center, where amenities include:

Downstairs

A full-size, residential-style kitchen with an open concept space.2 Refrigerators/ Freezers and 1 Standing Freezer1 Conventional Oven1 Coffee MakerCrock Pot(s)All the pots/ pans/ dishes/ cooking supplies and silverware you will need.1 MicrowaveDining AreaOpens into the kitchen and can seat a wide range of people, depending on how teams arrange the room.A spacious Living Room with ample seating available2 Half-BathroomsWiFi

Upstairs

4 Bedrooms with each room meeting the following criteria:Each room can sleep 8 heads - 4 Bunkbeds in all rooms.Each room has a full-size bathroom with showers, double sink vanities, and two toilets.Washer/ Dryer unit

The Camp also sits in a nice, safe location with grocery stores, gas stations, and restaurants all within a reasonable driving distance.

Use of the Retreat Center costs $200/night.

If the Retreat Center is unavailable, the acting host will inform teams of alternative housing if applicable.

Teams should be prepared to cover all housing and meal costs as a part of their planning.

Participants are encouraged to arrive the day before their work week begins and depart after the work week is completed. If teams need to adjust arrival and departure times, please contact the acting host to discuss those details. In this case, the host is Heather Bassett, and her information is listed below.

What to Bring:

Clothing appropriate for the season and climate.

We consistently experience rainy and windy weather here in the high country. It is important to pack clothes and shoes that will keep you warm and dry.Bedding (twin-size bunks)Towels and toiletries (including any prescription medications or supplements you need)Sturdy work gloves/ boots/ gear that can get dirty.Protective eyewearLong pants, good work shirts, and lots of socks (you can never be too careful with socks), etc.Funds for housing, meals, travel, and any incidental expenses or extracurricular activities.

Additional packing information may be provided by team leaders if needed.

Description of Work:

Projects are highly susceptible to change depending on a number of unknown factors; therefore, teams are asked to maintain flexible and patient mindsets regarding planning. Worksites vary based on team capabilities and the ongoing needs of the community.

While teams with differing backgrounds are always welcome, much of the work needed in Western NC is construction-based projects. Any individuals with trade experience are highly encouraged to consider volunteering.

Previous Work Projects have involved debris removal, insulation replacement, plumbing, drywall work, ceiling repairs, rebuilding walls, porches, and so much more.

Important Notes

LERT background checks are required for this Deployment because we work in people's homes. The LCMS LERT system will take you to the Sterling Volunteers website to get your background check (no cost to all LERT volunteers) when you sign up for this LERT Deployment.

Make sure your tetanus shots are up to date! Consult your physician for any other recommendations they may have for working in a dirty environment.

LCMS Disaster Response covers the hosting costs. Volunteers should bring funds for incidental expenses.

This is a working LERT Deployment. Expect eight (8) hour work days and to be tired at the end of the day!

LCMS Disaster Response and the Southeastern District will conduct a three-day Advanced/Storm Clearing Chainsaw training on April 23–25, 2026. Training will be held at  Camp Linn Haven, 1308 Linville Falls Hwy, Newland, NC. Senior LERT Chainsaw Trainers will equip LERT Chainsaw Operators with information to safely address common situations that may be found in a storm tree debris clearing situation; techniques are also applicable to more “normal” tree cutting situations, and can be applied to other complex situations.

 

This hands-on class seeks to enhance the knowledge, skills, and abilities of LERT Chainsaw Operators so they can more efficiently, effectively, and safely address storm-damaged tree clearing operations on responses. It also meets the requirements for LERT Chainsaw Trainer training. This class is open to any LERT Chainsaw Operator; participants do not have to be LERT Chainsaw Trainer candidates or interested in becoming one to participate.

 

NOTICE: Participation in this class does not automatically mean the participant is or will be aLERT Chainsaw Trainer. Those interested in being a Trainer must complete the Trainer Application process, which includes approval of your DDRC and a current LERT Chainsaw Trainer.

General Information 

·      Housing: We will be staying at Camp Linn Haven, in a group cabin.

·      What to bring:

o   Bedding, towel. Participants should bring a pillow, twin sheets/blanket, or sleeping bag for bunk beds. Please let us know if these items are needed.

o   Weather-appropriate clothing (temperatures can range from 40’s to upper-70’s, slight chance of rain; check the weather outlook before you come).

o   Chainsaw PPE – chaps, helmet, eye protection, gloves, steel-toed boots. Limited PPE may be available; please advise us if needed. Participants must wear PPE for the class.

o   Chainsaw equipment – chainsaw, tools, wedges, and other desired equipment. Chainsaws will be available for use if transporting a chainsaw is a problem, but we prefer operators use their own saws. Chainsaw fuel and bar oil will be provided.

·      Meals: Meals (breakfast, lunch, dinner, snacks, drinks) will be provided. Please let us know if you have any dietary restrictions.

·      Location: The camp is located in western North Carolina. Airport information:

o   Asheville (AVL): approximately 72 miles

o   Transportation to/from the Asheville airport can be arranged; any other transportation arrangements are the responsibility of the participant.

·      Health Conditions: This is a hands-on class that will require participants to handle chainsaws and trees in the woods.

·      Prerequisite: Participants must have previously completed the LERT basic Chainsaw Operator training to participate in this class, be comfortable operating a chainsaw, and be knowledgeable in felling, limbing and bucking trees.

·      Class Size: This is a hands-on class, so class size is limited to 10 participants.

·      Trainers: The class will be led by senior LERT Chainsaw Trainers, each with years of chainsaw storm-clearing experience.

·      Registration Deadline: April 8, 2026.