05/01/2026
COPE’s efforts around recovery from the April 2024 tornado were recognized by our partners at OCF.
Two years ago, on April 26, 2024, multiple EF4 tornadoes tore through eastern Nebraska, damaging or destroying nearly 1,000 homes across communities including Elkhorn, Blair, and Washington County. For many families, recovery extended well beyond the first weeks and months after the storm.
That long road was supported by disaster case managers who showed up early, stayed engaged, and walked alongside survivors through some of the most difficult parts of rebuilding. They helped neighbors navigate insurance, avoid contractor fraud, and understand an often overwhelming recovery process.
Today, we want to thank the disaster case managers and partners whose steady, behind‑the‑scenes work supported families after the Arbor Day tornadoes:
- Outreach Program of Elkhorn (COPE) – Nancy Lary
-East Central Long‑Term Recovery Group – Jan Zurcher (not pictured)
-First Lutheran Church of Blair – Erika Cada (not pictured)
-Heartland Hope Mission – Kaylin Behrens, Michelle Rodgers
-Society of Saint Vincent de Paul of Omaha – Jill Lynch‑Sosa, Diego Padilla, Lily Reyes
-Meristem Consulting – Sarah Sjolie
Your work supported hundreds of neighbors as they rebuilt their homes and worked through long‑term recovery. Thank you for staying with the work and for showing what community support looks like long after the storm has passed.
