About Us
Welcome to the HELP NOW PROJECT, where we equip our community with essential emergency response training since 2015. Through workshops, seminars, and partnerships, we empower individuals with the knowledge and skills to handle any crisis, fostering safer families and communities.
2000+ Hours
Hands-on hours spent on scene during Hurricane Ian.
15+ Tons
Tons of food, water, and supplies delivered to those in need in the days following Hurricane Ian.
1,500+ Square Miles
Square miles of surface area covered for emergency communications channels during times of natural disaster or widespread power outages.
30+ Courses
Specialized courses offered which focus on safety, preparedness, community resiliency, and more. Courses delivered to businesses and individuals.
Our Teams
Behind every mission accomplished at HelpNow is a team of dedicated and passionate individuals. Join us, and be a part of a community driven by purpose, collaboration, and the urge to create positive change in the world.
01
Leadership Team
The Leadership Team is comprised of professionals seasoned in their field to be the mastermind group to grow the organization to reach goals. The overall safety of all team members is a priority over all goals.
02
Ambassadors
As an Ambassador, you play a vital role in increasing brand awareness, raising funds, and representing us to individuals and organizations. Together, we can advance our mission of empowering lives and creating positive change in our communities.
03
Strike Team Force
Strike Team Members are frontline responders, ready to act swiftly when called upon. They dedicate themselves to learning new skills, teamwork, fitness, and thrive in high-stress situations. Regular training sessions enhance their proficiency with new equipment and techniques.
04
Auxiliary Reserve Corp
Auxiliary Reserve Corp Members support our mission with their belief in our cause, though they may lack time, physical capacity, or full team commitment. They assist with special events and activities and can attend training sessions, contributing to the team’s functionality. They are a crucial support system within our structure.
Our Amazing Staff
Our skilled team, composed of military, first responders, and law enforcement veterans, brings extensive experience to our mission of community safety. Through their dedication, they provide invaluable expertise in education and collaboration with emergency agencies. Their commitment ensures our community is well-prepared for any situation.
Founder and Executive Director
Mike Hills
Mike is pivotal in shaping Help Now’s vision, mission, and strategy, serving as its primary representative and liaison to key partners, donors, volunteers, and stakeholders. He oversees fundraising, budgeting, financial management, and ensures compliance with laws and regulations while seeking growth opportunities for the organization.
Chief Financial Officer
Melvin Sams III
Melvin oversees financial management and operations, developing strategies for stability and growth. He creates budgets, analyzes performance, ensures compliance, and collaborates on long-term financial plans with the executive team and board. Melvin also identifies funding opportunities and enhances financial systems to support organizational goals.
Chief of Staff
Adam Nebrich
Adam oversees daily operations, ensuring departmental efficiency and compliance with organization policies. He develops strategies, manages resources and budgets, and addresses issues to achieve organizational goals. Adam also leads program development to enhance service quality, serves as the primary liaison for stakeholders, and represents the organization externally. He ensures compliance with laws and regulations.
Director of Communications
Jason Esterline
Jason is an essential asset to the Tactical Operations Center, expertly managing emergency communications during critical situations and community events. His role as an Emergency Communication Officer involves coordinating auxiliary communication efforts during disaster events, using his extensive experience and training in amateur radio services through the Pinellas County Auxiliary Communication Service (PCACS).
With his call sign N4BOZ, Jason is adept in operating a wide range of radio frequencies and systems, including UHF, VHF, HF, GMRS, repeaters, and scanners. His expertise in UPARC, ARES, and ACS ensures clear and effective operational command across these diverse communication platforms. In addition to his hands-on communication work, Jason has played a pivotal role in acquiring ATAK, a cutting-edge situational/spatial awareness system that enhances coordination in emergency responses. He also developed the radio operations protocols for the Disaster Response Teams (DRT), streamlining communication and improving overall efficiency in emergency situations. Jason’s contributions are vital in ensuring seamless communication and effective response during crises.
Director of Technology
Larry Dewberry
Larry oversees all technology systems and initiatives at Help Now Project, ensuring they effectively support our mission. They manage IT infrastructure, lead digital innovation, and implement secure and efficient technology solutions. This role also oversees data management and cybersecurity efforts, safeguarding sensitive information. The Director of Technology ensures our tools and platforms remain reliable, user-friendly, and scalable to meet organizational needs.
Director of Training
Ronnie Lang
Ronnie develops and implements training programs to ensure Help Now Project team members are well-prepared for their roles. They design curriculum, organize training sessions, and oversee certification processes for field and administrative staff. This role ensures that all personnel meet skill and safety standards needed to support our mission effectively. The Director of Training also collaborates with department leads to identify and address specific training needs.
Director of Disaster Response Operations
Alex Fallon
Alex leads all disaster response efforts at Help Now Project, coordinating rapid deployment to affected areas. They manage team readiness, resource allocation, and strategic planning for effective response operations. This role involves overseeing on-the-ground operations, ensuring safety standards, and liaising with local agencies and partners. The Director of Disaster Response Team also evaluates and improves response protocols to enhance future disaster preparedness.
Director of Logistics
Patricia and David Vincent
Patricia and David coordinates all logistical operations to ensure the efficient delivery of Help Now Project’s services. They manage supply chains, inventory, and transportation to support program needs and emergency response efforts. This role ensures that resources are available where and when they are needed, maintaining quality and timeliness. The Director of Logistics also oversees vendor relationships and compliance with safety standards.
Search and Rescue Coordinator
Ralph Lopez
Ralph oversees all search and rescue operations to support Help Now Project’s emergency response efforts. They coordinate team deployment, manage on-site logistics, and ensure safety protocols are followed. This role involves training team members, assessing risks, and maintaining readiness for rapid response. The Lead Coordinator also serves as the primary point of contact with local authorities and other emergency organizations.
Safety Officer
Brian O’Reilly
Brian is responsible for maintaining a safe environment for all Help Now Project operations and personnel. They develop safety protocols, conduct regular inspections, and ensure compliance with health and safety regulations. This role involves training staff on safety procedures and responding to any incidents to minimize risk. The Safety Officer continuously assesses operational activities to identify and mitigate potential hazards.
Team Leader
Walter Krupa
Walter supervises a group of volunteers or staff members to ensure efficient and effective support for Help Now Project’s initiatives. They coordinate daily activities, provide guidance, and ensure tasks are completed safely and according to plan. This role involves monitoring progress, addressing issues as they arise, and fostering teamwork. The Team Leader also communicates updates and needs to project managers or directors.
Team Leader
Kenny Nu
Kenny supervises a group of volunteers or staff members to ensure efficient and effective support for Help Now Project’s initiatives. They coordinate daily activities, provide guidance, and ensure tasks are completed safely and according to plan. This role involves monitoring progress, addressing issues as they arise, and fostering teamwork. The Team Leader also communicates updates and needs to project managers or directors.
CERT Liason
Thomas Havlik
Thomas coordinates between Help Now Project and Community Emergency Response Teams (CERT) to ensure aligned emergency response efforts. They facilitate communication, organize joint training exercises, and share resources to enhance community preparedness. This role ensures seamless collaboration during emergencies and supports CERT teams with guidance and logistical assistance. The CERT Liaison also represents Help Now Project in community preparedness meetings and events.
AVERT Active Shooter Instructor
James Dowler
Jim trains individuals and teams on effective response strategies for active shooter situations, prioritizing safety and preparedness. They deliver instruction on situational awareness, emergency protocols, and lifesaving skills like bleeding control. This role involves conducting practical drills, assessing participant readiness, and adapting training to meet various group needs. The Instructor ensures all training aligns with industry best practices and safety standards.