Disaster Relief and the Local Church: Mobilizing Hope in Crisis with Dino Rizzo

When disaster strikes, communities are left reeling. Hurricanes, tornadoes, floods, and fires don’t just damage property—they disrupt lives, families, and hope. In those moments of chaos, Pastor Dino Rizzo believes the local church has a unique opportunity to shine as the hands and feet of Jesus.

Dino Rizzo, co-founder of the Association of Related Churches (ARC) and Executive Pastor at Church of the Highlands, has seen firsthand how disaster relief can become one of the church’s most powerful ministries. His experience in Louisiana, where hurricanes are a constant reality, taught him that the church can’t sit on the sidelines when people are hurting.

The Church as First Responders of Hope

“When tornadoes hit Alabama in 2011, our church had to mobilize,” says Dino Rizzo. “It didn’t matter if you had five people or 500. You just show up and help.” 

For many churches, disaster relief begins simply: clearing fallen trees, cleaning out homes, or handing out meals. Over time, consistency builds capacity. What starts with a borrowed chainsaw and a pickup truck can grow into a fully equipped response team with trailers, supplies, and trained volunteers.

Partnerships that Multiply Impact

One of the keys Dino Rizzo emphasizes is partnership. Churches don’t have to reinvent the wheel—many organizations already specialize in disaster response. Ministries like Convoy of Hope or Sleep in Heavenly Peace can provide infrastructure and expertise, while the church provides willing volunteers.

“Partners know where the needs are,” Rizzo explains. “They have the systems, and what they need is people. We bring the people, the sweat equity, and the heart to serve.”

This combination allows the local church to make a tangible difference without being overwhelmed.

Mobilizing Everyday People

Disaster relief also creates unique opportunities for church members to discover new purpose. Rizzo tells the story of a banker who joined cleanup efforts after storms. “During the week I’m a banker,” the man said. “But on weekends, I cut down trees. I feel like I was born for this.”

Moments like these remind believers that outreach isn’t just for pastors—it’s for everyone. God uses ordinary skills in extraordinary ways when people are willing to serve.

The Gospel in Action

Disaster relief is more than physical help—it’s a demonstration of the gospel. Dino Rizzo calls it “the new apologetic.” When the church shows up in times of crisis, no debate is needed. Love expressed through action speaks directly to the heart.

For churches wondering how to begin, the path is simple: notice the need, show up, and partner with others. Whether it’s five people with rakes or 500 with trucks, every effort matters.

As Dino Rizzo reminds leaders, disaster relief doesn’t just rebuild homes—it restores hope. And in a broken world, that hope points directly to Jesus.

About Dino Rizzo

Dino Rizzo, a 35-year ministry veteran, co-founded Healing Place Church with his wife, DeLynn, where he served as senior pastor for two decades. Through his passion for inspiring believers to serve their communities, Dino Rizzo founded Servolution and authored “Serve Your City.” Rizzo serves as the President of ARC (Association of Related Churches), which has planted more than 1100 churches worldwide, and is on the Senior Leadership Team at Church of the Highlands.