As the aftermath of superstorm Sandy bears down on the East Coast, thousands of volunteers are on their way to help. Others are hoping to make a difference from miles away.

Kimberly Golden has researched the storms impacts.  She’s worrying if her friends and family who live in Sandy’s path are okay.

"Just because we are thousands of miles away doesn't mean it has less impact on us,” Golden said. “There are families and people here who have families and friends over there.”

Golden is working with CMU student organizations and local banks, trying to start a Sandy relief fund.  Its something those faced with the disaster say is desperately needed.

"There are millions of people without power right now, there's extensive damage in other areas, and there are plenty of people that are going to be without homes,” Emily Wilkins said.  “I think as much help as we can have is greatly appreciated."

Wilkins is just one of the thousands who evacuated from Ocean City, New Jersey, where the streets outside her small business are covered in water.

"They’ve just never seen flooding like this ever before,” Wilkins said.  “We’re pretty much not aloud back at this point."

As thousands of volunteers make their way to the storm battered states, our local Salvation Amy says what it needs most is money.

"It’s easier and cheaper for us to buy in bulk at the closest areas. Its too difficult collect it, load it, and transport it,” Claudia Jackson, with Western Colorado’s Salvation Army, said. "They always ask for monetary relief for this kind of event."

And when it comes to Golden's efforts to help bring storm relief, she says anything will help.

"I just want to see people think about other people," Golden said.

If you're interested in helping the victims of superstorm Sandy, one easy way is by donating to the Salvation Army’s Disaster Relief Fund.

You can do that at its office, thrifts stores, even through your cell phone.

Text STORM in capital letters to 80888.  That will donate $10 directly to storm relief.