Last week, I couldn’t bring myself to write about creating a home or making ours beautiful. How could I, when so many were fleeing theirs or watching everything they’ve built disappear in flames? The devastation from the fires in Los Angeles has been heavy on my heart, and I decided to pause my social posts and blog to focus on what truly matters right now.
Kaitlyn and I felt an undeniable calling to help. Our first instinct was to find a way to volunteer in LA County, but every organization we contacted was either fully staffed with volunteers or simply requesting monetary donations. While giving money is impactful and needed, we wanted to offer our time and hearts as well.
A family friend’s Facebook post led us to a local donation center in North San Diego County. They were accepting donations and desperately needed hands to help sort and organize items that would be sent to support LA’s fire victims. Kaitlyn and I spent Sunday there, taking in the humbling sight of community members showing up with bags of clothes, toiletries, and essentials. It was a small but powerful reminder of humanity’s goodness in the face of tragedy.
We’ve since learned more about the incredible impact this community effort has had. The Institute of Contemporary Art in Encinitas, where we volunteered, shared an update about the work accomplished so far. Over the weekend, more than 300 volunteers came together to collect and organize donations. By Sunday, they had received goods and medicine from over 1,500 cars, filling three 26-foot trucks that were delivered to organizations in Los Angeles. A fourth truck is being prepared for delivery in the coming days.
One story shared by the Executive Director truly moved me...
On Sunday morning, a couple arrived with just a few bags. They had tears in their eyes as they explained they had lost their home in Altadena. Yet, despite their loss, they had gone out and purchased items to donate for others in need.
This act of selflessness embodies the very best of humanity—turning pain into compassion and action.
This cause is deeply personal to us. In 2017, during the Lilac Fire, we were evacuated from our own home. The fear and uncertainty during those days are emotions I wouldn’t wish on anyone. We were incredibly fortunate that our house was spared, but the memories of that time have stayed with me. They’ve made the weekend's work all the more poignant.
When homes are lost, it’s about more than just structures. It’s about the life lived within those walls, the memories, the treasures—big and small—that hold meaning. But I’ve also seen how tragedy can renew our appreciation for life, family, and the communities that rally around us in times of need. It’s in those moments of devastation that humanity shines brightest.
As we’ve seen in both Los Angeles and the widespread destruction caused by Hurricane Helene in Florida, Georgia, South Carolina, North Carolina, Tennessee, and Virginia, the need for support feels overwhelming. But we can each do something—no matter how small—to help.
Ways to Help After a Disaster:
1. Donate What You Can: If you’re able to give financially, organizations like the Red Cross, United Way, and Direct Relief ensure donations reach those most in need. For material donations, consider local drives and shelters—essentials like clothing, toiletries, baby supplies, and pet food are often in high demand.
2. Volunteer Your Time: Search for local shelters, food banks, or donation centers accepting volunteers. Even sorting donations or assembling care packages makes a huge impact.
3. Offer Resources: If you have an extra room, rental property, or even camping supplies, consider offering them to families who have been displaced. Airbnb often facilitates free housing for those affected by disasters.
4. Start a Prayer Group: If volunteering isn’t possible, gathering friends or family for a moment of collective prayer or reflection can be a powerful way to channel support and compassion.
5. Share Information: Sometimes the most valuable thing you can do is spread the word. Share verified resources and ways to help on your social platforms to reach others who might be able to contribute.
As Kaitlyn and I reflect on our Sunday, we’re reminded of the strength that comes from community and the difference even small acts of kindness can make. There is still so much to do, and we’re committed to continuing this work—offering our hands and hearts to those in need.
Reflecting on the devastation, I’ve been reminded that it’s okay to feel your feelings. Even if you weren’t directly affected, disasters like this stir something deep within us—empathy, fear, gratitude, and even guilt for being spared. For me, writing and sharing this message is a way to process those emotions and honor the resilience of those affected. It’s my hope that in doing so, I’m not only working through my own feelings but also encouraging others to reflect, act, and support in whatever ways they can.
To everyone affected by these tragedies, know you’re not alone. To those who can help, know that every gesture matters. Together, we can make an incredible difference.
With a humble heart,
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