VALLEY CITY (Valley News Live) – About 50 volunteers showed up to help one family in the southwest part of Valley City.

Tucked away in southwest Valley City is the Severson home, a home now a total loss after a tornado swept through the area.

“You know, an event like this happens, you don’t think it’s ever going to happen in this area, obviously,” said Jordyn Heck, the Transportation and Facilities Director with Valley City Public Schools.

“No hesitation on willingness to give back. When I was told people needed help, my house was good and everything. So, I said ‘Let’s go out and help people that needed more help than I did,” said Aaron Heck, with works with Valley City Public Schools.

A text message was sent over the weekend asking the community to come together and help out. Tuesday, about 50 volunteers were up and early.

“Without hesitation, without being begged, without being bribed, any of that kind of stuff. It was ‘Hey, we just need some help. This family needs help with this.’ They didn’t hesitate. They’re out here, they’re busting their butts. It’s awesome to see, it’s been really nice,” added Aaron.

Homeowner Marlin Severson did not want to talk on camera. But some younger volunteers like incoming 7th-grader Wyatt Maresh did.

“I was in Bismarck during the weekend when the tornado hit, and I was feeling guilty that I couldn’t be here to help. Right when I got back to town, I was like, ‘What can I do to help people out?’”

Senior Kellen Westman also shared his thoughts:

“I know there’s been a lot of talk about hurricanes and everything all around. But living in Valley City, North Dakota, it feels like we’re pretty untouched by that. Something like this really wakes you up. But I think it’s important to definitely wake you up to how your community reacts to it.”

While the house is still standing, it’s going to be a long road ahead.

“I mean, look at all the kids who showed up just for this. All the staff, adults, and community who showed up and said ‘There’s something I can do to help and I’m going to offer that.’ My reaction to this is obviously it’s wild to see, but it’s pretty amazing to see the good hearts of everyone who knew that they had things to give in this situation.”

To donate to the Severson Family’s GoFundMe, you can click here.

If you’d like to volunteer on Wednesday, June 25th, or Thursday, June 26th, you’re asked to meet at 8 a.m. at the VCPS District Offices (460 Central Avenue N.)

You can also email josh.johnson@k12.nd.us or courtnie.d.fick@k12.nd.us.