Community Initiatives to Aid Altadena and Palisades in Wildfire Recovery and Redevelopment

In the wake of the disastrous Southern California wildfires, two community-centric funds have been established: The Altadena Community Fund and The Palisades Community Fund. These initiatives are designed to address the urgent recovery needs of the affected regions and facilitate long-term rebuilding efforts.

The Altadena Community Fund aims to tackle the specific challenges faced by the foothill communities impacted by the fires. It will focus on both immediate relief and sustainable recovery measures. On the other hand, The Palisades Community Fund is dedicated to promoting resilience and renewing the Pacific Palisades area and its surroundings.

Created by a field of passionate local residents, these funds are a result of a collective vision for empowering the Altadena and Pacific Palisades communities. Founding members include Bill and Kate Fishel, Paul Fuhrman, Sam Bakhshandehpour, Mickey Segal, and Lindsay Petersen. They are committed to fostering a community-driven approach to fundraising and redevelopment.

A governing board composed entirely of community members from each affected area will oversee the allocation of funds. This structure ensures that resources are directed to the most pressing needs as identified by those who suffered the fires’ impact. Tracy L. Lawrence, a notable figure in the nonprofit sector and the founder of The Lawrence Advisory, has been appointed chair of the committee that will guide the selection process for these boards. Lawrence emphasized the importance of transparency and effective resource management: "Our role is to ensure these funds serve their communities effectively and transparently."

Community members participating in the initiative understand the necessity for governance that represents and understands local needs. Bill Fishel highlighted the overwhelming support received from friends and family worldwide, aiming to convert this goodwill into tangible assistance in alignment with the communities' current needs and future aspirations.

Paul Fuhrman expressed hopes that these community-led funds can exemplify how philanthropic efforts, grounded in strategic planning, can stimulate civic renewal. "By embedding community voices in all our processes, we ensure that our response to this disaster creates lasting resilience within these areas," Fuhrman stated.

Plans are underway for a joint fundraising event to be held in March, with further details to be announced soon. The funds will be fiscal sponsorships of the Edward Charles Foundation, a recognized nonprofit organization, allowing all donations to be tax-deductible. For those wishing to contribute, donations can be made directly via the Altadena Community Fund and the Palisades Community Fund websites, aiding in the recovery and development efforts of these affected communities.

With these newly established funds, Altadena and Pacific Palisades residents are setting a powerful example of community unity and resilience, taking control of their recovery paths in the face of adversity.

Topics Policy & Public Interest)

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