A Heart for Sheltering, A Kindergarten Teacher Gives Back

Following the aftermath of the March 3, 2020 tornado — like most Tennessee residents — Dawn Willis sought ways in which she could give back to the community and help those directly affected. The American Red Cross was in need for shelter managers, a perfect volunteer route for a kindergarten teacher to take on.

In the days immediately following the tornado, Willis went to work by volunteering for the American Red Cross at the Highlands Heights Church of Christ shelter in Lebanon. Her duties included everything from maintaining the shelter operations to ensuring the privacy of shelter residents. As a first-time shelter manager, Willis quickly came to realize the inexplicable amount of manpower needed for disaster relief.

“You have people who have lost everything coming in looking for clothes, food and a hug,” she said. “I jumped in, got busy, and knew I wanted everyone to come into a warm and compassionate shelter.” Willis puts forth a tremendous amount of effort to ensure that any resident who enters the shelter is well cared for. “I take pride in helping my community. This hit very close to home. Some of the people affected are people I have known for many years.” said Willis.

When school lets out for summer break, Willis plans to continue volunteering with the Red Cross. “This has been a humbling experience for me, hearing stories of survivors and helping those in shock, spending time with the kids, and catching up with some of my former students,” said Willis. “I love seeing my community come together and sharing the love. That’s what its all about.”