Don and Rachel Horst of Newton, Kansas have been showing up for people in their worst moments for nearly five decades. First responding to the Big Thompson Canyon flood in Colorado in 1976, the Horsts have since served in some of the most far-reaching corners of MDS response work, from California and Puerto Rico to American Samoa and Saipan.But what makes Don and Rachel stand out is not just the miles traveled or the years logged, it is the way they show up. They listen they sit with survivors they offer compassion to people who have lost everything. In this episode, they share some of the most moving stories from a lifetime of service, including Don's own profound journey as a retired pilot and trucker who found deep meaning in giving back through MDS.We are saddened to share that Don Horst has passed away since this interview was recorded in 2023. We are grateful to have captured his voice and his story, and we are honored to share his memory with reverence.

“MDS changes lives.” On February 10, 2023 in Lancaster, PA Gloria Nussbaum met with Sabourin of Winnipeg, Manitoba. Denis talks about his faith journey, how he came to know MDS, and how his first trip led to him organizing over 17 MDS service trips!

On November 18, 2024, Gloria Nussbaum sits down with Tom Smucker of Sterling, Ohio, former Executive Director of Mennonite Disaster Service, to reflect on a lifetime of responding to disaster.

Tom shares how he first became involved with MDS in 1992 following Hurricane Andrew, drawing from his background in construction and farming. He recounts the early days of MDS, its history and separation from MCC, and what it feels like to witness a disaster for the first time. From the overwhelming sight and even the smells of destruction, to the challenges of arriving early in a response, Tom offers honest insight shaped by decades of leadership.

The conversation also explores how MDS, and disaster response as a whole, has grown and changed over the years, and the importance of collaboration with other organizations doing meaningful work.

Join us as we listen, learn, and give thanks for Tom Smucker’s faithful years of service with MDS.

Meet Steve and Connie Caucci from Duette, Florida. Listen to them recall hurricane Ian, their experience in the storm, and how they came in contact with MDS.“I never thought that I was going to be one of those in need” said Connie Caucci, reflecting on their hurricane encounter. Be sure to like and share this episode, and listen now on Spotify, Apple Podcasts, or YouTube to hear their full story.

Gloria Nussbaum interviews Jerry Grosh, Interim Director of Operations with MDS. Jerry shares how he was introduced to MDS, his first experience serving in Alabama after Hurricane Katrina, how disaster response locations are chosen, adversity faced on projects, and the nature of facing disasters as a faith based organization.

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Thank you for listening!