Valley Spirit in Action: The Heroism and Volunteer Spirit Following the August 18th Flood.

The recent devastating floods that hit our Valley on August 18th, 2024, will long be remembered not just for the destruction it caused but for the incredible acts of heroism and volunteerism that emerged from the chaos. Our hearts are heavy with condolences as we mourn the loss of two Valley residents, Ethelyn Joiner and Audrey Rostkowski. We also stand in solidarity with the countless families whose properties were destroyed and cherished belongings washed away. Yet, amid this tragedy, we witnessed extraordinary acts of bravery and selflessness, reminding us of the unique character of our community -- what we at the Valley Community Foundation (VCF) now call “Valleyness.” 

The floodwaters struck with a ferocity that caught many off guard, but our Valley first responders acted with speed and courage that undoubtedly saved many lives. One of the most dramatic and widely shared moments was the rescue of people trapped in homes and businesses as floodwaters surged through Route 67 in Oxford.  

The video, which has now been seen across the world, shows first responders rescuing trapped people on Route 67 and at the Brookside Inn. Using an aerial ladder, while treacherous raging-flood waters -- filled with floating cars, dumpsters and debris – raced dangerously beneath them, Beacon Falls first responders executed a flawless operation to ensure that everyone was safely evacuated.  

Similarly, the rescue of more than 60 people at Jackson Cove Town Park on the shores of Lake Zoar further highlights the Valley’s resilience. The parkgoers were cut off by the rising waters and some of them, many with small children, were stranded in isolated areas of the park for hours. But Oxford first responders, using rescue boats, ensured that everyone was brought to safety. And on Sullivan’s Island in Derby, Storm Engine Co. firefighters heroically rescued a local fisherman who had been clinging to a fence in the midst of the flood’s fury. All of these rescues involved not only physical bravery but the emotional courage to stay calm in the face of such an overwhelming disaster. This kind of decisive action and calm-under-pressure is a testament to the professionalism and dedication of our Valley’s emergency services.  

However, it wasn’t just our first responders who embodied this spirit of Valleyness. Volunteers, neighbors, and even complete strangers came together in ways that are impossible to quantify but deeply felt by those who were affected. Homes were opened to those displaced by the flood. Food, clothing, and shelter were provided without a second thought and area nonprofits like TEAM, the Red Cross and Salvation Army also jumped into action immediately providing help and comfort. 

The day after the water receded, countless volunteers flocked to Klarides Village in Seymour to assist all the businesses devastated by the flood. These volunteers worked tirelessly to clean the thick mud and debris left behind by the raging water, offering hope and support to business owners facing unimaginable losses. 

Across our Valley, people showed up for each other, just as they did during the Flood of 1955, which also left deep scars on our community. Once again, we proved that while floods may wash away possessions, they can never erode the deep-rooted spirit of brotherly love that defines our beloved Valley. 

VCF’s staff, Board of Directors, Board Advisory Council and Fundholders, have been both humbled and overwhelmed by this outpouring of care and compassion. We often speak about “Valleyness” a term we coined earlier this year to capture the unique combination of love, community, and shared responsibility that permeates life in our Valley. In the aftermath of this flood, we have seen Valleyness in its purest form. Our community is not just rich in terms of physical assets or property but in the qualities that truly matter -- courage, compassion, and a willingness to give without expectation of return. 

These acts of heroism and kindness, whether they make the headlines or go unnoticed, are living examples of what makes our region special. First responders rightly have gained international attention for their incredible rescue efforts, but there were countless others -- neighbors checking on one another, volunteers bringing supplies to those in need, and people offering a shoulder to cry on -- that are equally deserving of recognition. Their actions, too, are woven into the fabric of Valleyness. 

As the floodwaters withdraw and we begin the process of rebuilding, we are reminded that the Valley’s true wealth is not in what we lost but in the people who stepped up to help. Valleyness, that deep sense of connection to one another, cannot be washed away by any flood. It’s what makes our region resilient, strong, and united in the face of even the most overwhelming adversity. 

To everyone who played and is playing a role -- big or small -- in helping our community recover, we extend our deepest gratitude. Whether you’re a first responder risking your life in a dramatic rescue, a volunteer bringing hot meals to displaced families, or a neighbor simply checking in on someone who needed a kind word, you are the embodiment of Valleyness. To those families mourning the loss of their loved ones, or dealing with the destruction of their homes, please know that your Valley neighbors are here for you, today and always. 

In these moments, we see the heart of the Valley laid bare, and it is strong, caring, and ready to support its own. As we move forward, let us hold onto the lessons of this significant event -- not just the devastation but the heroism, love, and community spirit that emerged from it. Valleyness is truly who we are, and it is what will carry this community through this and any challenge that comes our way. 

 Sincerely, 

The Valley Community Foundation