FRESNO, Calif.— On Saturday, June 28, the California Southern Baptist Disaster Relief (CSBDR) ministry held its annual CSBDR Volunteer Celebration Luncheon, honoring faithful volunteers, highlighting ministry milestones, and unveiling key innovations that will shape the future of Disaster Relief in California and beyond.
Originally scheduled for earlier in the year but postponed due to the devastating Los Angeles fires, the luncheon took place at Woodward Baptist Church in Fresno. Despite the delay and a change of venue, the event delivered what CSBDR Director Kendrick Neal called “a truly memorable afternoon, filled with heartfelt recognition and enthusiasm for all the amazing things coming up for CSBDR.”
A Look Back at 2024: Service, Deployment, and Growth
Attendees reflected on a remarkable year of ministry in 2024. CSBDR teams completed 17 deployments, including:
- 10 across California,
- 6 out-of-state, and
- 1 international
Volunteers logged over 4,500 hours of service and made 1,310 ministry contacts, offering practical help and the hope of Jesus Christ to communities in crisis.
One of the largest early deployments was the San Diego floods, a reminder of the urgent and ongoing need for trained, gospel-centered disaster response.
Additionally, the CSBDR team shared the ministry with 102 pastors and churches and trained over 200 new volunteers in California and Nevada. The luncheon also spotlighted the launch of a new website (csbdr.org), which can also be easily accessed through the CSBC homepage, a streamlined hub for training, deployment schedules, and donations.
Another major announcement was the creation of the California Southern Baptist Disaster Relief Fund, designed “by and for California Southern Baptists” to support long-term ministry. Neal described the fund as “a way to make individual contributions that last longer and stretch further.” Donations can be made at this link.
Honoring the Servants Behind the Ministry
The most moving moments of the luncheon came during the awards ceremony, where volunteers were honored for their outstanding service and Christlike leadership.
Joyce Harman and Joanne Bryan received the Golden State Award, the highest recognition for service that reflects the mission and heart of CSBDR. “This award was long overdue,” Neal shared. “Joyce and Joanne are two of our most faithful and versatile volunteers, capable of performing a wide range of functions. In 2024 alone, they deployed as chaplains to the Airport Fire in Orange County and served on a cleanup team during Hurricane Helene. Their deep experience allows them to serve on Incident Command Teams, lead chaplain teams, and provide one-on-one care to homeowners.”
Paul Keast and Dave Fulbright were presented with the Hallmark Award, which recognizes significant contributions marked by humility and servant leadership. “Dave has led our chainsaw training and teams for years,” said Neal. “In 2024, he led several teams across California and even braved leading a heavy equipment team alongside our former state director, Don Hargis. That’s not an easy assignment.” As for Keast, Neal added, “Paul never says no. He “Blue-Capped” flood recovery, personal property, and even led a cleanup team in Florida after Hurricane Helene. His answer is always, ‘Sure! I’ll figure it out.’”
The prestigious John Paget Legacy Award was presented to Don Hargis, commemorating his 24 years of service as CSBDR’s State Director. “Don’s leadership has left a mark on every corner of this ministry,” Neal said. “He helped shape Disaster Relief in California as we know it today.” In a lighthearted but heartfelt moment, a video of Hargis receiving the award was shared with attendees and is available for viewing online.
Also recognized was Dr. Naomi Paget, a trailblazer in chaplaincy who has served CSBDR for several decades. Dr. Paget was honored for her exceptional ministry, steadfast dedication, and Christlike integrity. “Her unwavering commitment to professionalism in chaplaincy and care for people impacted by disaster will have a lasting impact,” Neal said. “It was an honor to recognize her enduring contribution in serving with CSBDR and in training and encouraging our next generation of chaplains.”
Finally, a special tribute was paid to Sarah Anne Love, CSBDR’s administrative assistant, marking her one-year anniversary with the ministry. “Sarah Anne has completely transformed our communications, record keeping, and reimbursements. She is a source of great joy for our volunteers,” said Neal. “She has assimilated well into the CSBDR culture and it’s hard to imagine doing this much ministry without her.”
A Vision for 2025
The luncheon included a devotional led by Dr. Pete Ramirez, CSBC executive director, who shared his own experience of deploying with CSBDR. His message served as a powerful reminder of why Disaster Relief matters, not just as a ministry of response, but as an ongoing witness to the hope of Jesus.
With a growing social media presence, a more responsive website, and new financial tools for giving and training, CSBDR is preparing for the days ahead with renewed strength.
As Neal summarized, “We remain committed to sharing help, hope, and healing in the name of Jesus Christ, wherever and whenever we are called.”
