2025 is over.

2025’s challenges –personally, regionally, and globally – have been real.

Thank you for the support as we have been working through Miriam’s chemotherapy treatments this fall. Her chemo and following radiation treatments will hopefully wrap by late May. While this has impacted our lives, she is doing well so far. But in relation to some of the horrible tragedies and disasters others have faced, we are clearly blessed and thankful.

2025’s disasters felt excessive. Many were lost, and even more are still looking to recover. Through it all, many of you were directly involved in caring for those around you and abroad. Thank you for that.

As we look forward to the new year, I hope you will join me in reviewing what happened in 2025 as we ask hard, appropriate questions. For me, there are few questions more important than “How can IDRN add meaningful value in the midst of it all?”

My desire for this network to not over-promise is rooted in the current reality of minimal institutional resources. Also, not over-promising things is rooted in the need to build trust. But creating a relevant core offering – in addition to relational connections – must be part of a successful 2026.

Please prepare to contribute with your questions, suggestions, and participation in the coming weeks and months. The possibilities remain. The International Disaster Response Network is well positioned to be a true force multiplier for all that is already being done globally… and an avenue for new and better collaboration.

2025 is over. 2026 is here. Join us as we build and grow IDRN.