Members of the MOAA Uniformed Services Nurse Advocates Virtual Chapter (MUSNAVC) don’t all share a common geographic location. The chapter’s more than 500 nurse-members are located in all 50 states. But when hurricanes Helene and Milton hit the U.S. earlier this fall, proximity didn’t stop chapter members from checking in on their fellow members who were impacted.

“After the events, I researched what districts were affected or reporting damage and then matched that information with our membership roster, which shows which districts members are in,” said MUSNAVC President Lt. Col. Joe Gollasch, USA (Ret), who lives in an area of Florida impacted by the hurricanes.

He then gave that list to Col. Pat Chappell, USAF (Ret), chapter vice president of programs and a Colorado resident, who divided the list among the chapter’s We Care Program volunteers. They got to work calling those impacted, making over 200 contacts -- first through calls, and then, if unsuccessful, through text messages or emails.

“The goals are to let our members know there is someone out there who cares. The human contact is so important — a person taking the time to reach out voice to voice. And, if they’re needing something, linking them with resources,” Chappell said.

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Those resources include The MOAA Foundation’s Crisis Relief Program, Red Cross and FEMA assistance, and other applicable information.

Fortunately, the chapter had no fatalities, and those contacted reported having only minor damage to their homes and properties.

“Our chapter members have been blessed,” said Chappell.

Both she and Gollasch said the members called were very appreciative.

“A few reports came back that people were in tears just knowing that someone cared enough and was concerned to call,” Gollasch said.

He added that several members were so grateful that they wanted to pay it forward and volunteer to call others impacted.

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The We Care Program was started in 2020 by former MUSNAVC President Col. Jeri Graham, USA (Ret). Then called the “Buddy” program, its goal was to check in on members during the COVID-19 pandemic. In 2021, the program shifted to those impacted by natural disasters, and in 2023, it was renamed the We Cares Program.

Gollasch said he is “so proud” of this effort.

“The program is so unique, and I was so pleased to see how many members wanted to get involved and make these calls because they truly did care and have concern,” he said. “Uniformed service nurses never stop caring or serving,” he said.