When Dr. Eddie Moody became the executive director of the National Association of Free Will Baptists, he introduced the slogan “Better Together.” Since then, it’s become more than a phrase; it’s become a mindset. Many of us use it to encourage fellow believers to be more involved in ministry, and it has been a rallying cry for unity across our denomination.
Free Will Baptists can serve together in countless areas, but one of the most impactful is the Master’s Men Disaster Response Team (DRT) ministry. In a world where natural disasters seem to strike with increasing frequency — tornadoes, hurricanes, earthquakes, floods — DRT volunteers step into the aftermath with tools, compassion, and a willingness to serve.
Where It All Began
Master’s Men began developing Disaster Response Teams in 2004. Our first relief project took place in Gulfport, Mississippi, following the devastation of Hurricane Katrina. More than 50 volunteers showed up on day one, and that number grew over the following two weeks. Since then, we’ve served in nearly every Southeastern state, as far west as Oklahoma, and as far north as Ohio.
Today, we have eight fully equipped teams with trailers and tools, ready to respond quickly when disaster hits. We’ve also partnered with state organizations — like helping South Carolina get started with their own trailer — to expand our reach. But beyond logistics and equipment, the heart of this ministry is found in the stories of those who serve.
From the Field
“When we started our Master’s Men chapter, we had no idea what was ahead. Then, massive flooding hit Eastern Kentucky. Over the next few months, we responded to job after job — meeting people from other states, hearing their stories, and praying with them. That first experience changed me. I was all in from then on. Everyone who volunteers feels the same. To receive a blessing, you need to be a blessing — and Master’s Men is exactly that: a blessing to those in need.” — John Reynolds, Kentucky State Master’s Men Director
“Our team was born out of the devastating July 2022 flood in southeastern Kentucky. Men from our church went to muck out homes, and what started as a small effort quickly grew. We returned to one neighborhood more than 40 times to help rebuild four homes. Volunteers came from Ohio, Kentucky, Georgia, Alabama, South Carolina, Tennessee, and Florida. It was a beautiful picture of the Body of Christ in action — people from all walks of life coming together to help those who couldn’t help themselves. I’d encourage every able-bodied volunteer to find a local or regional DRT leader and get involved. You won’t regret it.”— Mark Price, Ohio Valley Master’s Men DRT
“For me, it’s a privilege to serve through DRT. Whether we’re cleaning up after a flood or clearing downed trees, we often arrive when people feel hopeless. One woman in East Tennessee told me she didn’t know what to do until we showed up; our presence gave her hope again. We work closely with local Free Will Baptist churches, which allows us to serve strategically and build relationships that often lead to ongoing ministry. And, thanks to generous donations, we’re also able to offer supplies and gift cards when needed. For many, that extra help makes all the difference.” — Samuel McVay, DRT Volunteer
“I’ve been doing disaster relief for over ten years. One of the most moving parts of this work is when people ask, ’What do you charge?’ and we get to say, ’Nothing.’ One man in North Carolina was shocked by our answer and still tried to give me money. I later learned he wasn’t a believer, but his neighbor had been sharing Christ with him. I believe that experience made an impression — seeing Christ’s love in action. It’s moments like that, when people smile for the first time in days, that keep me going.” — Allan Austin, DRT Volunteer
A Mind to Work
As you can see, DRT not only meets urgent physical needs, but it also deeply affects those who serve. Right now, we have active DRT teams in Oklahoma, Kentucky, Virginia, Florida, Ohio, and Tennessee, with more states in the process of organizing. If you’re interested in starting a Disaster Response Team in your area, I would love to connect with you.
In the book of Nehemiah, we read about a man burdened for his broken city. He didn’t wait for someone else. He made a plan and got to work. And in Nehemiah 4:6, we find the reason for their success: “So built we the wall...for the people had a mind to work.”
That’s what DRT ministry is all about. God’s people, coming together with willing hearts and ready hands — because we truly are better together…in action.
About the Writer: Ken Akers has served as the director of Master’s Men since 2002. In 2015, the ministry became part of Free Will Baptist North American Ministries, where Ken also serves as Chief Financial Officer and oversees the Church Extension Loan Fund. To learn more about Disaster Response Teams (DRTs), visit fwbmastersmen.org/.
