As the Santa Ana winds lessen and give firefighters their first chance to gain ground on the wildfires ravaging Southern California, we have a chance to see what makes us great. It isn't the massive integrated government response with federal, state, and local agencies pouring enormous amounts of money and personnel into the area (although that is absolutely critical), but it is our communities and our individual expressions of support and assistance.
It is the individuals bringing food and water to Qualcomm Stadium for the evacuees being housed there. It is families opening their homes to others. It is neighbors checking up on the safety of neighbors, and helping them dig out when the time comes.
This is what makes communities great, that no matter what the disaster - hurricane; fire; earthquake; or terrorist attack - we will step up and be there. Individually we may or may not have much in common with those in need, but Americans always recognize the need first and are there with a helping hand.
Throughout California, CAI chapters, members, and our Legislative Action Committee, are working to assist those who have been displaced and the communities that have been damaged. CAI has also developed a comprehensive Disaster Recovery page on our website which we have updated to include specific data related to the California fires. In addition to information and assistance for those who have suffered direct losses due to the fires, it also contains information for those who would like to help those families and communities directly effected.
I have already heard many stories about individuals and communities reaching out, but I always like to hear more. If you have a story about your family, community, or company and how they contributed to the effort in this massive evacuation and recovery process, I would certainly like to hear about it. Just click on the comment button below to share your experiences.
