On International Volunteer Day, celebrated on December 5, 2024, the Pathfinders in Rio de Janeiro were honored with a special tribute from the Civil Defense and the Fire Department for their collaborative efforts with Rede Salvar.
The ceremony took place at the General Command Headquarters and was attended by various authorities, community leaders, and representatives from humanitarian organizations, including the Adventist Development and Relief Agency (ADRA).
Adriano Santos, director of the Pathfinder Ministry for the central region of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, explained the importance of Rede Salvar, a group of volunteers who work in emergency situations in support of the Fire Department and Civil Defense.
“When major disasters or emergencies occur in the state of Rio de Janeiro, this Network is activated to assist in operations. The [network] that is part of this movement was also honored for its essential contribution,” Santos highlighted.
During the event, the Secretary of State for Civil Defense and Commander of the Fire Department presented trophies and congratulated the volunteers, reaffirming the relevance of partnerships in facing social and environmental challenges.
Tribute highlights the volunteer work of the pioneers in environmental tragedies.
Photo: Personal archive
Tribute highlights the volunteer work of the pioneers in environmental tragedies.
Photo: Personal archive
Tribute highlights the volunteer work of the pioneers in environmental tragedies.
Photo: Personal archive
Tribute highlights the volunteer work of the pioneers in environmental tragedies.
Photo: Personal archive
Stories of Service and Courage
Cristiano Rocha, the leader of the Pathfinders in the mountainous region, reflected on the actions taken by his group and members of Adventist churches during the tragedy in Petrópolis in 2022. “During that critical time, we formed a dedicated team to assist in high-risk areas. We used vehicles to transport people and carry out evacuations, helped clean up destroyed homes, and even collaborated in the search for buried victims,” Rocha explained.
He shared an experience when the Pathfinder Club uniform opened up paths. “In the midst of the chaos, the firefighter captain recognized the uniform and authorized us to enter restricted areas. This allowed us to help directly, whether with practical actions or bringing comfort to the affected families,” he recalled.
The Pathfinders’ work included more than 20 moves, house cleaning, food distribution and help in the search for missing people. Despite the tragic scenario, stories of resilience and hope marked the work of the volunteers, who called themselves the “Jungle Group”.
The recognition received on International Volunteer Day reinforces the Pathfinders' commitment to society. The networking with Civil Defense, Fire Departments and organizations such as ADRA demonstrates that volunteering goes beyond individual gestures, being a collective force to face the most complex challenges.
“This partnership with the state government is essential to strengthen our purpose of helping others. May we continue to be a light in the midst of adversity,” Santos said.
The original article was published on the South American Division Portuguese website.
