As the president of the Ocean Breeze Civic Association, Jean Laurie loves her little beach community in Staten Island, New York. Generations of families grew up in the safety and beauty of this charming town.

That sense of security is shattered in October of 2012 when Hurricane Sandy barrels into New York.

The super-storm devastates Ocean Breeze, destroying both property and lives. But in the aftermath, Laurie is touched by how the community comes together with volunteers and churches from around the world to help restore some semblance of normal life. While many do their utmost to...