Mike Allers finds purpose and impact with Team Rubicon, helping disaster-stricken communities rebuild.
When COVID-19 disrupted daily routines and left many wondering how to make sense of the uncertainty, Mike Allers, Vice President of Security & Networking at TD SYNNEX, felt a deeper calling. A long-time leader in the tech space, Mike discovered Team Rubicon, a humanitarian organization led mostly by veterans that deploys disaster relief to underserved and rural communities across the U.S. “I didn’t realize how much volunteering would mean to me until I got involved,” Mike shares. “I live a fortunate life, and understand I am in a position to help people who need it.” What started as a curiosity turned into a life-changing mission.
Mike began his journey with Team Rubicon working on logistics needs including inventory analysis and restocking trailers stationed nationwide for rapid response. It wasn’t long before his interest in the chainsaws led him to his current role as a Chainsaw Deputy for the Southeast Red Team, and an instructor for others joining the mission.
Throughout his time with Team Rubicon, there have been many memorable stories of impact, but one moment stands out above all. During his first deployment after a tornado devastated a town in Alabama, Mike and three veterans were driving through streets littered with remnants of homes and lives, when they encountered a woman sitting on the stoop of what was left of her house, in tears. “What was I going to do? How was I supposed to help,” he remembers asking himself. “Before the truck was even parked, the three other guys had jumped out, hugged her, and said, ‘This is what we’re going to do.’” That’s when it hit Mike that this is exactly where he wanted to be and the impact he wanted to have on people.
For Mike, Team Rubicon offers more than just relief efforts. It offers purpose and reconnection, especially for veterans navigating life after service. For those wanting to start their own volunteer journey, Mike says “Step into the arena. The first step is always the hardest, but once you do that, it gets a lot easier because you realize there are others with the same desire to help.”
His biggest takeaway? Humility and community. “I’ve got a lot more to give, and I think a lot of people do. We as a community need each other.” By stepping into the arena, Mike is not only changing lives, but also showing others how to lead with purpose and compassion.
