An EF4 tornado touched down in Mississippi in the spring of 2023. Much devastation occurred in several locations within the state. One area that experienced such devastation is Rolling Fork, MS. It was reported that 68% of area residents were renters at the time of the tornado.
The recovery process for these “rental residents” has been slow. Assistance for lost or damaged rental properties and tenants’ personal items is very limited or non-existent.
Rolling Fork Rising is a local nonprofit that has a vision: to provide new homes for former renters that can be purchased at a discounted price. RFR’s goal is to have the new homeowner’s monthly mortgage payment, taxes, and insurance cost approximately the same as they were paying for rent prior to the tornado—about $600 per month with a 20-year mortgage at 0% interest.
Sister-Corps will partner, for a second time, with Rolling Fork Rising to continue the construction of homes for former renters to buy in Rolling Fork. As a volunteer, you will help with construction and support tasks as assigned—no experience is required, just a willingness to work, learn, and serve.
Key Dates for Volunteers
- Feb 7, 2026 (Saturday) – Power Tool Safety Verification: Arrive before 11:00 AM if you have not completed PTSV and want to operate power tools. Sign-up notices will be emailed.
- Feb 8, 2026 (Sunday): Volunteer arrival between 1:00 PM and 3:00 PM.
- Feb 14, 2026 (Saturday): Pack up and depart before 11:00 AM.
Housing & Meals
Location:
First Baptist Church of Rolling Fork
73 North 2nd Street
Rolling Fork, MS 39159
Housing will be dorm-style with bunk beds (lower bunks for all volunteers), a shower trailer (6 showers), kitchen, dining, and meeting space.
Meals are provided Sunday night through Friday night. Our Meal Team works hard to accommodate a range of dietary needs whenever possible.
Please leave pets at home in their safe, familiar surroundings.
Cost & Requirements
- Project fee: $195 (covers lodging, meals, and required project T-shirt)
- Fees are non-refundable but may be transferable according to Sister-Corps policy
- A background check is required for all volunteers
- Additional trip details, packing guidance, and any schedule updates will be sent by email
Come prepared to serve alongside the Rolling Fork community and be part of long-term recovery and hope after the storm.
Next Steps – Checklist for Volunteers
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Respond to confirm participation
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Click the “Respond” button on this page to begin or confirm your registration process.
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Pay your registration fee
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Follow the payment link for registration fees.
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Your spot is not secured until the fee is paid.
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Fees are non-refundable but transferable to another attendee; if you cancel, they may be counted as a donation for tax purposes.
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Join the Facebook group
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Join our Facebook group 2026.2 MS Rolling Forks-2 Project for project updates, community discussions, and important announcements.
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This page is for registered volunteers, board members, and Sister-Corps administration.
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Complete your background check
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Watch for the background check email and complete it promptly.
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A cleared background check is required to work on all Sister-Corps project sites.
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