Volunteer Ministers Launch Disaster Preparedness Initiative in Tulsa with Community Leaders and Cultural Celebration

The WUS Volunteer Ministers hosted a Volunteer Minister (VM) Event focused on Disaster Preparedness at the Rose District Plaza in Tulsa, Oklahoma, on Saturday, Aug. 1st. The event brought together community leaders, nonprofit organizations, disaster relief partners and local residents for an evening dedicated to emergency preparedness, community cooperation and cultural celebration.

The event featured entertainment by PAKILISTLI, Academia de Danza y Cultura Folklorica, whose young adults and children performed traditional folkloric dances that delighted attendees. The name Pakilistli comes from the indigenous Nahuatl language and translates as joy, happiness or pleasure. Founder Silvia Gallegos explained that her mission is to educate dance students about the culture and history behind traditional dances and attire, helping them connect with their heritage. "Dance the past, unite the future, tradition lives in Pakilistli," said Gallegos.

A series of guest speakers highlighted the importance of disaster preparedness, community service and collaboration among organizations serving Tulsa and surrounding communities. Mirbek Baken of the Raindrop Turkish House spoke about the organization's disaster-relief efforts, including feeding communities during emergencies and promoting intercultural understanding by bringing people of different backgrounds together through community events and partnerships. Felisa Hilbert, representing the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints and a recognized community leader in Tulsa, discussed the work of her nonprofit organizations and the assistance they provide to individuals and families throughout the region. Ramon Urbina and board members of Angeles en Tulsa shared information about their nonprofit organization's humanitarian work. They described recent efforts to assist victims affected by the Venezuelan earthquakes and highlighted their partnership with the Volunteer Ministers during relief activities.

Lakresha Ferguson, Emergency Disaster Services Coordinator for the Oklahoma and Arkansas Divisional Headquarters of the Salvation Army discussed the organization's disaster services programs and expressed appreciation for the assistance Volunteer Ministers provided following the recent Enid, OK tornado. Wayde Normandin, Volunteer and Disaster Resource Manager of the Tulsa Metropolitan Salvation Army outlined the services offered to residents in Tulsa and neighboring communities and emphasized the importance of disaster preparedness education. He also spoke about classes available to help community members become better prepared for emergencies.

Following the presentations, attendees were invited to participate in an official ribbon-cutting ceremony marking the opening of the Volunteer Minister initiative in Tulsa. Guests then toured the Volunteer Ministers tents, viewing educational displays and exhibits on disaster response and about the training program in practical solutions to virtually any life's many problems—from resolving study difficulties to helping addicts withdraw from drugs and from relieving the emotional and spiritual factors in stress and trauma to salvaging troubled relationships.

The event showcased the power of cooperation among faith-based organizations, nonprofits and community groups working together to improve disaster readiness and strengthen support networks for residents throughout Oklahoma. The Volunteer Ministers program, established more than three decades ago by Scientology Founder L. Ron Hubbard, is rooted in the belief that individuals can make a meaningful difference in their communities. The group has become known for its humanitarian efforts, assisting in disaster zones and collaborating with public service organizations worldwide. Their work is featured in the new feature-length film Operation: Do Something About It on the Scientology Network.