Hurricane Cleanup - Enlightenment Through Contribution

This past weekend, I set out for a gathering of my GoBundance GoPod[i]—six driven, accountable individuals who have become my pillars of support. We originally planned to reconnect, reflect on our six pillars (age-defying health, genuine contribution, authentic relationships, extreme accountability, horizontal income, and bucket list adventures) and have a little fun. What started as a routine weekend evolved into a profound experience that altered my perspective and trajectory.

Our trip to Asheville, Charlotte, and the surrounding areas was planned long before Hurricane Helene devastated western North Carolina. The storm didn’t derail our trip, but it did change its purpose. We partnered with Aerial Recovery[ii] for the weekend, joining their boots-on-the-ground efforts to help communities overwhelmed by the destruction. The experience was eye-opening, to say the least. My takeaways were many but an important one was the evolution of my understanding of saying I learned long ago as a hiker: "The more I travel, the less I carry."

Originally, I interpreted this as a literal nudge to lighten my pack and travel freely. But after this weekend, the saying took on a new meaning. While I had packed light—just a duffel with a tent, sleeping bag, boots, and a few articles of clothing—the lightness I gained was not just physical.

We assisted homeowners and business owners who were still grappling with the aftermath of the hurricane. The sheer devastation left many paralyzed, unsure where to start. For me, each task—whether it was cutting down a tree, clearing debris, or simply listening to stories—felt like shedding a layer of personal baggage. The more I travel, the more I grow. The more I open my eyes to help others, the lighter my own personal load becomes. It's as if stepping into another’s shoes helps lift the weight I unknowingly carry.

On my journey toward simplification and personal growth, this weekend took me through the homes, yards, and businesses of wonderful families affected by the storm. As a group, we took accountability for genuine contribution. We didn’t just talk contribution; we stepped in and helped. I was not going to write about this experience. But one of the leaders reminded us to carry this experience home—not just as a memory of helping in North Carolina, where recovery efforts will be needed for a long time—but as a reminder to encourage others to see beyond themselves, to help lighten the load of others, and, in doing so, lighten their own.

What struck me most were the logistics behind disaster recovery. Many want to help after a storm, but they don't know how. I met people who quit their jobs, bought one-way plane tickets, and have been there for weeks—sleeping outside, working in challenging conditions, and facing the seemingly insurmountable task of organizing aid. The logistical challenges are immense. Imagine driving an hour to help only to find another group already there, and then arriving at a place so wiped out that you don’t even know where to begin. Picture standing in your home, half-gone, and seeing devastation stretch as far as you can walk in a day. A month after the storm, with most of the headline news gone, there are still people living in tents, without power or running water. Then, imagine a team of volunteers showing up, ready to cut, clean, and clear a path forward. Emotions were running high no doubt.

This weekend, I learned a lot. I strengthened existing relationships and created new ones. But most importantly, I realized the power of genuine contribution. I thought I had joined GoBundance for a year, but after this experience, I feel like I’ve joined for life. Thanks to Aerial Recovery, GoBundance, and all the volunteers who gave their time and energy. The more we travel, the more we help, the lighter we become—not in possessions, but in spirit.

Let’s take these lessons home, not just for North Carolina, but wherever we see others in need.

[i] GoBundance is a mastermind group for high-achieving entrepreneurs and investors focused on personal growth, financial freedom, adventure, and living a well-rounded life. Members are encouraged to pursue excellence across multiple dimensions, including health, relationships, wealth, and contribution. A GoPod is a smaller, tight-knit subgroup within GoBundance where members regularly connect to set goals, share accountability, and support each other’s personal and professional journeys.

[ii] Aerial Recovery is a nonprofit organization that specializes in disaster response, humanitarian aid, and anti-human trafficking efforts. It deploys teams of trained professionals, including veterans and first responders, to provide immediate relief, rescue operations, and long-term recovery support in communities affected by natural disasters, conflicts, and crises worldwide. Beyond disaster relief, Aerial Recovery is actively engaged in combating human trafficking, conducting rescue missions, and supporting survivors through rehabilitation and reintegration programs. The organization emphasizes rapid response, coordination, and sustainable rebuilding to restore hope and stability to vulnerable populations.

About the Author – Dane Czaplicki, CFA®

Dane Czaplicki is CEO of Members’ Wealth, a boutique wealth management firm that offers a comprehensive approach to serving individuals, families, business owners, and institutions. The firm’s goal is to preserve and grow its clients’ wealth to endure over time, while thoughtfully evolving its strategy to suit an ever-changing world. With over 20 years of wealth management experience, Dane and the Members' Wealth team thrive on bringing clarity and confidence to clients' unique situations. He believes everyone needs sound financial advice from someone whose interests are aligned with theirs, and is determined to put service before all else.

Dane received his MBA from The Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania and his bachelor’s degree from Bloomsburg University. Outside work, he enjoys spending time with his wife and kids, hiking and camping, reading, running, and playing with his dog. To learn more about Dane, connect with him on LinkedIn.

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