About Helping Hands
Our Story
Our Founders saw a need for greater collective aid to smaller communities still cut off due to flooding where FEMA couldn't immediately provide aid.
Jackson involved former Executive Director, Brian Kelly, and current Executive Director, Alex Clark, along with other aviation connections to collectively organize a base of operations in Dallas, Texas. Hundreds of flights were coordinated for deployment to Beaumont, Orange County and the rest of the greater Houston area.
The relief efforts of this unofficial mission was the founding of Operation Airdrop. To this day every, team member - from Board members to pilots to ground personnel - are volunteers who devote their time to helping people in need following large-scale natural disasters.
Our Mission
Our mission is to respond swiftly and effectively in times of crisis, ensuring that essential supplies reach those in need when traditional ground transportation is compromised.
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We believe that no community should be left without aid during their most challenging moments. By coordinating with volunteer pilots and a diverse fleet of aircraft, we aim to fill the gaps in emergency response efforts, delivering life-saving supplies—such as food, water, medical necessities, and personal hygiene items—to isolated areas. Our passionate team of volunteers works tirelessly to mobilize resources, collaborate with local charities, and ensure that help arrives as quickly as possible.
Get to Know Us
​Natural disasters unfold in several stages, and our mission adapts to meet the evolving needs at each stage.
1. Initial Chaos: In the immediate aftermath of a disaster, chaos reigns. In the first few days, the sheer volume of stories, images, and cries for help can be overwhelming. Sifting through this information to locate those most in need is a daunting challenge, but this is where the power of community and volunteer efforts begins.
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2. Community Mobilization: As the chaos settles, people start to gather at central locations like churches, community centers, and local shelters. It’s at this stage that Operation Airdrop can truly make an impact.
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3. Recovery and Rebuilding: As search and rescue operations come to a close and the roadways begin to recover, we transition to a somber phase. The long road to recovery begins.
Our Team
Our team is made up of dedicated people from different backgrounds, industries, and experiences whom all have a passion for service and aviation.
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors at Operation Airdrop comprises experienced leaders and visionaries who guide our mission and strategic direction. Each board member brings a unique perspective and skill set, united by a shared commitment to serving communities affected by natural disasters. They oversee our initiatives, ensure transparency and accountability, and help cultivate partnerships that enhance our ability to deliver critical aid where it's needed most.
Doug Jackson
Chairman
CK Lee
Board Member
Larry Robicheaux
Vice Chairman
Robert Johnson
Board Member
Operations Team
Russ Keith is our new Executive Director. He has experience managing 501c3 non-profits and is a former teacher and high school principal. He is a Commercial Pilot and CFI/CFII/MEI.
