Eastern Shore Rotary Clubs held a midyear conference in Fairhope last week to train and educate local Rotary members and guests on disaster response and relief on the Gulf Coast.

The event aimed to give a high-level overview of a number of topics related to disaster relief, including how Rotary clubs and non-governmental organizations can best respond to disaster in local communities, what framework and resources exist and how volunteers can provide assistance in times of need, even with modest training.

Local rotary clubs in Baldwin County have had a significant hand in aiding both Baldwin County and the coastal region in events of disaster, including providing food and other resources for those in need. Fairhope mayor Sherry Sullivan made an appearance Friday morning to thank the local rotary clubs for what they do for the community in times of trouble.

"It doesn't matter if it's a disaster or it's just something that the city is doing, [Rotary] is always there to lend a hand," Sullivan said. "I think that's one of things they're known for across the country. But particularly here in Fairhope, there's just so many great folks who are part of Rotary and part of this organization, and they have a spirit of giving, and they have those servant hearts."

During the conference, special guest Andy Tubertini gave an overview of local disaster relief efforts and discussed what Rotary organizations can and should do in times of disasters. A discussion was also held featuring several local experts, including Jennifer Myrick from Fairhope United Methodist Church, Deann Servos of Prodisee Pantry, Miranda McKinnon of Baldwin County's Volunteer Organizations Active in Distress (VOAD) and Sheri Swartz from the City of Fairhope. They discussed the coordination between local organizations and answered questions from guests.

Tony Dickey, director of chaplaincy at Disaster & Victim Services, told guests about his experiences on the field and urged them to be properly prepared for emotional support and their own wellbeing well dealing with situations that can take a toll mentally and emotionally. Dickey has worked with authorities through tragedies such as the 2012 Sandy Hook shooting and most recently the attack in New Orleans on New Year's.

"I would encourage you, as a Rotary club, to get pure support training into your club because you guys are going to encounter emotional situations that will add up," Dickey said. "It's basically like stacking pancakes. It's gonna keep stacking up until all of a sudden, you're gonna get that emotional wall, and when you hit it, you need help. The term 'suck it up buttercup' has created so much PTSD in past years. That's why we have so many situations for first responders. That's why the suicide rate amongst first responders is number one in the nation, so I encourage you guys as a chaplain, please be a chaplain. We need them."