SALT director cited for recovery work

PHOTOGRAPHER: David Lombardo

Well-known flood relief activist Sarah Goodrich was one of 16 people across the state honored by Gov. Andrew Cuomo for their rebuilding efforts after hurricanes Irene or Sandy.

Schoharie Area Long Term Inc. Executive Director Sarah Goodrich was presented a plaque by the governor during an emergency preparedness conference on Oct. 28 at the Capitol. The award credits her dedication and service, saying, “Your courage, resourcefulness, and self-sacrifice has contributed greatly to the protection of life and property of the citizens of the Empire State.”

The group she leads, known locally just as SALT, is responsible for coordinating much of the disaster recovering efforts for individuals and families in the Schoharie Creek basin and the surrounding area. Their coordination efforts, which can involved civic organizations and government agencies, are focused on making the rebuilding process more efficient and organized.

It has been estimated that SALT has coordinated at least 35,000 volunteers, who have been responsible for 210,000 volunteer hours. Earlier this year SALT volunteers had already worked on 47 different projects, completing 28.

Goodrich said in a statement that she was honored for the award. “But I feel that this award belongs to many people who displayed great courage, resourcefulness and self-sacrifice over the past two years,” she said. “Our past and present board members, staff, longtime volunteers, and the thousands and thousands of other volunteers all deserve recognition as well for their commitment to our recovery efforts.”

Earlier this year she was also honored as the 2012 Times-Journal Star.

A large part of SALT’s work has included raising money, with a total goal of $3 million. Goodrich has argued that donations to SALT go a long way, estimating that each dollar they receives is worth $4 to $6 because the organization gets discounts on building supplies and skilled labor and often utilizes volunteer labor.

Reach SALT by calling (518) 702-5017 or sending an email to [email protected] The group’s website is www.saltrecovery.org.