RIVOAD Elects New Executive Officers
June 23, 2026
Rhode Island Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (RI VOAD) has completed a leadership transition following the resignation of former Chair James Jahnz of the Diocese of Providence.
At a recent emergency meeting, Jamie Lynch was elected Chair of RIVOAD. Joining the Executive Committee are Jennifer Santos, elected Vice Chair/Treasurer , and Renee Brissette, elected Secretary.
As Rhode Island’s statewide network of organizations active in disaster, RIVOAD remains committed to strengthening communication, coordination, collaboration, and cooperation before, during, and after disasters. The new Executive Committee looks forward to building upon the organization’s strong foundation while expanding partnerships, engaging new member organizations, and enhancing collaboration across the nonprofit, faith-based, government, and private sectors.
“RIVOAD has an important role in bringing organizations together before disasters occur. Our focus is on strengthening partnerships, improving coordination, and ensuring our members are better prepared to serve Rhode Island communities when disasters happen. I look forward to working alongside our member organizations and partners as we continue building a stronger, more connected RIVOAD.”
Jamie Lynch
Chair
RIVOAD extends its sincere appreciation to James Jahnz for his years of dedicated service and leadership as Chair. His commitment to fostering collaboration among Rhode Island’s disaster response organizations helped strengthen RIVOAD and advance its mission throughout the state. We also thank the Diocese of Providence for its continued partnership and support.
As RIVOAD begins this next chapter, the Executive Committee will focus on:
- Expanding outreach to current and prospective member organizations.
- Reviewing and updating RI VOAD’s bylaws and governance documents.
- Strengthening partnerships with nonprofit, faith-based, government, and private-sector organizations.
- Enhancing member communications and online resources.
- Growing RI VOAD’s statewide membership network.
- Continuing to strengthen disaster preparedness, response, recovery, and mitigation collaboration throughout Rhode Island.
We look forward to working with our member organizations and partners as we continue building a stronger, more connected disaster collaboration network for Rhode Island.
About RIVOAD
Rhode Island Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster (RIVOAD) is a statewide coalition of nonprofit, faith-based and community-based organizations committed to strengthening disaster preparedness, response and recovery through communication, coordination, collaboration, and cooperation. By working together year-round, RIVOAD helps build resilient communities and improve coordinated disaster services across Rhode Island.
To learn more about RI VOAD’s leadership, visit our Leadership page.
Organizations interested in joining Rhode Island’s statewide disaster collaboration network are encouraged to explore our Become a Member page to learn about membership eligibility and the application process.
Questions? Contact us at rivoad@nvoad.org.