BCC Heroes of the Flood
Greg Jenkins
Greg Jenkins is a full time Broome Community College student. But lately he’s also been putting in 13-15 hour days as the Flood Relief Coordinator for Conklin Presbyterian Church.
“I’m just doing the best I can, but it’s not easy,” said the 49-year old. “Thankfully, the professors have been great about working with me and understanding about what I’m trying to accomplish.”
Jenkins is at BCC working towards an associate’s degree in human services, and hopes to eventually earn a bachelor’s in not-for-profit management. He entered the helping profession after a bout with a serious illness in 2006 that caused his business to flounder. That was right around the time of the area’s first historic flood. During that crisis he stepped up to volunteer at the church; his efforts resulted in one of the area’s most impressive volunteer responses and a change in his career path.
“I found it interesting that I was able to use all the knowledge I had acquired as a single father, plant manager and sales purchaser,” he explained. He was then hired by the Broome County Council of Churches. He ultimately left that position in order to attend BCC to build his credentials in the field.
As flood relief coordinator, he ensures food and supplies are distributed, individuals are able to access the resources they need, and deals directly with FEMA. He also coordinates volunteers for projects across the region. Conklin Presbyterian has been serving about 500 meals per day and handing out supplies to hundreds of flood survivors.
“With the help of other volunteers, we’re able to make something good happen at a really bad time,” he said.