DO GOOD VOICES: Showing Up When Disaster Strikes with Sarah Hipps

What does it really mean to show up for your community when disaster strikes? On this episode of Do Good Voices, host Meredith Pericles, founder and executive director of the Do Good Foundation, talks with Sarah Hipps, founder of Show Up Relief Alliance, about disaster preparedness, grassroots relief, and the people who can easily fall through the cracks after a hurricane.

Born out of the response to Hurricanes Helene and Milton, Show Up Relief Alliance provides hands-on assistance to St. Petersburg residents before and after disasters. Sarah shares how a simple social media call for volunteers grew into a coordinated effort involving more than 35 people and assistance to more than 55 homes following Helene. The organization helped residents with everything from removing furniture, drywall and debris to delivering food, water, clothing and other essential supplies.

Sarah and Meredith also discuss the importance of reaching residents who may not have the ability or resources to advocate for themselves, particularly elderly, disabled and isolated residents. They explore the role of neighborhood connections, nonprofit partnerships and community-based organizations in filling gaps that larger disaster-response systems may not always be able to reach.

With hurricane season in full swing, Sarah offers practical advice for preparing before a storm, including keeping a go bag and go binder, making sure your vehicle is ready for an emergency evacuation, stocking necessary medications and supplies, and planning for children and pets. She also encourages residents to get to know their neighbors and identify anyone who may need additional assistance before and after a storm.

The conversation also covers what to do—and what not to do—after a storm. Sarah stresses personal safety around downed power lines and floodwater and explains the importance of proper protective equipment when helping to clean out a flooded home. She discusses Show Up Relief Alliance's "muck out" efforts and why getting damaged drywall and materials removed quickly can be critical to preventing further damage.

In the episode's Do Good Three, Sarah reflects on how the experience of Helene changed her perspective on community and the importance of neighbors showing up for one another. Her message is simple: “Doing good means showing up.”

Learn More & Get Involved

Show Up Relief Alliance — disaster preparedness, grassroots relief and volunteer opportunities in St. Petersburg: Show Up Relief Alliance

Volunteer with Show Up Relief Alliance: Volunteer with Show Up Relief Alliance

Do Good Foundation: Do Good Foundation

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