EVERY YEAR, hurricanes roar across the United States, leaving in their wake devastation that alters the lives of thousands of people. Hurricanes alter landscapes and communities, displace families, and leave destruction in their wake. For those affected, the road to recovery is long, but it’s often reversed by generous neighbors and people who are willing to lend a hand, no matter the distance. Brandon Imhoff is one of those people. For over eight years, he has answered the call to help, sending numerous tractor-trailer loads of supplies to disaster-stricken areas. With his latest efforts focused on hurricane relief, Imhoff’s heart has become more deeply devoted to the people he serves.
Imhoff actively participated in disaster relief efforts for many years before the recent hurricanes that plagued North Carolina and Northeast Tennessee.
“I’ve been doing disaster relief for other communities for about eight years,” he said. “The hurricane relief marks the 15th tractor-trailer I’ve sent from Manchester to disaster areas over the years. Four of those trucks were to Western North Carolina for hurricane relief.”
He said helping others has always been something he enjoys. What inspires him more than the logistics of delivering supplies is being a dependable resource for others in moments when hope feels distant. The emotional toll of hurricane relief is weightier than Imhoff could have ever anticipated. While helping others is rewarding, the Hurricane Helene mission hit closer to home.
“I had several friends on the ground working there, sending calls, photos, and videos. I also met some amazing people who lived through the disaster and heard their stories firsthand.”
The emotional weight of hearing personal accounts made this effort mentally taxing, so much so that Imhoff had to step back for a few days to reset.
Imhoff ’s relief efforts have been nothing short of remarkable.
“The impact has been astronomical,” he said, recounting how three tractor-trailer loads and one 24-foot cargo trailer of supplies reached hurricane victims in desperate need.
Having spent years building connections with other relief groups, Imhoff knows exactly what he and the volunteers need to prioritize in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. He knows what the most critical needs are and adjusts what they send based on that.
Between coordinating food, drinks, clothing, and medical supplies, Imhoff and his volunteers make sure to deliver resources quickly and efficiently.
“I organize donations in Manchester, then get them into the hands of people who need them most.”
Logistics are always a challenge, especially when a natural disaster disrupts infrastructure. Imhoff explained that the biggest challenge this time was securing a location for the tractor-trailer. Unlike the tornado relief efforts of the past — where roads remained mostly intact — hurricane damage left entire roadways destroyed.
“It took me a couple of days to secure a location that a tractor-trailer could get into without any detours that possibly could not support a tractor-trailer on the detoured roads.”
Roads were often impassable, requiring quick thinking and precise coordination. But Imhoff’s experience helped him navigate the challenges. He made sure the site was more accessible and contained enough space for the truck and unloading equipment.
While some moments are too painful to recount, Imhoff tries to reflect on the inspiring strength he witnessed in the face of disaster.
“One thing that always stays with me is how strong, kind, caring people are in times of need.”
He believes this example of unity in the middle of adversity is one of humanity’s most beautiful qualities.
“We have a great nation and communities that come together in times of need to help others. I love being a part of that and seeing how much people care and are willing to help other people and communities they have never met or been to. It’s really amazing to see in action.”
Imhoff’s efforts are not tied to any organization or committee. He is simply a man with a heart for helping. Over the years, he has curated a network of volunteers who support his work. He said that when a disaster strikes, he immediately receives hundreds of calls and texts from people in the community ready to step up and help. Through all of his work, Imhoff has learned that collaboration and teamwork are at the core of effective disaster relief.
“It’s incredible how much people are willing to do for others, especially when times are tough,” he said. “It’s a reminder that, despite the challenges we face as a society, people truly care for one another.”
The response from his neighbors is always overwhelming, with individuals coming together to donate goods, volunteer their time, and support the cause.
The response from the community was beyond what Imhoff expected. Sending three tractor-trailer loads and a 24-foot cargo trailer was the largest shipment he had ever sent to one area.
“People like to help others in need. It’s just human nature, for the most part, to help others,” he explained.
He believes that disaster relief provides a lifeline to those in need and helps build connections between community members.
“With volunteers here locally helping me, people get to meet others from the community they did not know. There have been some really good friendships made locally from relief efforts that they otherwise may have never crossed paths and met. It could very well be our community that needs the same help one day.”
Despite the negative headlines that often dominate the news, Imhoff believes there is more good in the world than we realize.
“We all have our differences in life. We live our lives in different ways. Most of the time, people disagree on things and may even criticize others for those differences. But it’s wonderful to see all that put aside for a greater need.”
Imhoff gives back to the community in various ways. In addition to disaster relief, he has sponsored local sports teams, helped provide access to school lunches for kids, and even purchased bulletproof vests for police dogs. His future goals remain centered on giving back to the community that has always supported him.
“If I can do it, anyone can. I just hope to inspire others through my kindness and willingness to help. Be the person who makes a difference in someone’s life. We all need help in our lives in some form or fashion.” GN
