About Us

Who We Are

The St. Johns County Voluntary Organizations Active In Disaster and Long-Term Recovery Organization (VOAD/LTRO) is a coalition of non-profit organizations, faith-based groups, government agencies and community partners dedicated to providing a coordinated disaster response and recovery efforts. Our mission is to foster a more efficient and effective disaster response through collaboration, communication, coordination and cooperation among our member organizations.

Our goals:

Lessen the impact of disasters on vulnerable populations
To ready community organizations for an influx of activity
To design a coordinated plan that reduces the waste of resources, time, and effort
Preparedness for disasters looks to save the maximum number of lives and property during a disaster, and it aims to return the affected populations to normalcy as quickly as possible.

St. Johns County realizes that Disaster Case Management is the most effective when implemented by local partners as part of a coordinated effort for community recovery. Local organizations work in cooperation with other service providers to develop a process for identifying barriers to accessing case management services and plans to overcome those barriers to access.
The difference between the VOAD and the LTRO is simply execution and a bigger table. The VOAD operates to prepare to move into action during a response and recovery period. Seated at the LTRO table are the members, special guests and regional partners. The VOAD is responsible for providing structure, resources and financial support at times of disaster. The plan is to know where the resources are, who can assist and what each LTRO can offer. The VOAD needs to continually find this funding and resources so when disaster does strike, the community is prepared.

Our History

Founded in 2015, St. Johns County VOAD/LTRO has been at the forefront of disaster response in our community. Over the years, we have grown to include 48 organizations, each bringing unique skills and resources to our collective efforts. Our network responded to Hurricanes Irma, Matthew, Nicole and Ian by providing critical support and making a positive impact on many lives.

We Are Better Together!

Get Involved

We invite individuals, organizations and businesses to join us in our mission. Whether through volunteering, donating, or becoming a member organization, your support can make a significant difference in our community’s resilience and recovery.