IMB staff gets paid leave to help Katrina victims

RICHMOND, Va. — Jerry Rankin, president of the International Mission Board (IMB), recently announced a plan by senior leaders to help IMB staff members offer a quick, hands-on response to Hurricane Katrina — Employees are allowed five days of paid administrative leave to help in disaster relief efforts.

“Without affecting any other [paid time off] or administrative leave, you can have a full week to be involved in this disaster relief,” Rankin recently told the staff. As his voice broke with emotion, he added: “We want to do our part.” Employees may serve with whatever organization they choose — Southern Baptist disaster relief, the Red Cross or other teams. Staff members will be eligible for the five days of paid leave as long as Katrina relief efforts continue.