The heavy-duty boots that Amy Kellet wears protect her feet as she walks the streets of Cedar Rapids neighborhoods devastated by flooding. Members of the assessment team typically work 8 a.m. to 6 p.m. to going into flood-damaged homes to survey and evaluate damage.
 


Homeowner Deb Tapken talks to Amy about her home, and her life. Prior to the flood, Tapken, a widow, lived in the home with her teen daughter. Part of an assessor's job is to take the time to listen.



A call to the East Central Iowa Volunteer Reception Center results in a scheduled assessment. Homeowners either meet an assessor at the site or sign a power of attorney in advance. Here Deb Tapken leads Amy through her home's back door and into the flood-ravaged kitchen.

 The bright orange of a lily adds a splash of color to Deb Tapken's yard. Before the flood, the school teacher enjoyed spending time gardening as a way to relax.






Tapken found an apartment to rent and said she and her daughter won't be returning to their house. She hopes that the house is renovated, and someday another family will enjoy the home she once loved as much as she did.