State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez joined by the Eaton Fire Collaborative Leadership Council (Photo – Monica Lopez)
In a significant step toward recovery for communities affected by the devastating Eaton Fire earlier this year, the Eaton Fire Collaborative Leadership Council has officially launched the Eaton Fire Collaborative Long-Term Recovery Group (EFC-LTRG). This coordinated, community-driven initiative is designed to support the residents of Altadena, Pasadena, Sierra Madre, and the greater Eaton Canyon region as they rebuild from the disaster.
By News Desk
The launch event, held at the future site of the Eaton Fire Collaboratory on Woodbury Road in Altadena, brought together key local, state, and federal leaders. Among those expressing their commitment to the recovery efforts were State Senator Sasha Renée Pérez, Assemblymember John Harabedian, Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo, Pasadena Unified School District Board of Education President Jennifer Hall Lee, Altadena Town Council Chair Victoria Knapp, Vice Chair Nic Arnzen, and representatives from Congressmember Judy Chu’s and Supervisor Kathryn Barger’s offices.
At the heart of this initiative is the EFC-LTRG’s mission to provide survivor-centered, equitable, and practical support to the region’s residents.
Christy Zamani, Chair of the Eaton Fire Collaborative Long-Term Recovery Group, emphasized the group’s unwavering commitment to guiding survivors through this challenging journey. “Our mission is clear, to walk alongside every survivor with compassion, resources, and practical support until recovery is achieved. The LTRG is built on the values of equity, dignity, and community resilience. We will make sure no one faces this journey alone,” Zamani said.
Key Objectives of the Eaton Fire Collaborative Long-Term Recovery Group
The EFC-LTRG will play a central role in the recovery process, with a focus on the following key goals:
- Coordinated Recovery Services:
The group will mobilize resources to assist those affected by the Eaton Fire, ensuring a streamlined and effective recovery process. - Equitable and Locally Driven Recovery:
The group will prioritize an inclusive recovery, ensuring that all residents have the opportunity to rebuild and recover fully. - Umbrella Organization:
The EFC-LTRG will unite various sectors, including nonprofits, faith-based organizations, businesses, and government agencies, under one cohesive effort. - Resource Mobilization:
The group will secure funding through grants, donations, and in-kind support via its Resource Committee. - Rebuilding and Construction Oversight:
The EFC-LTRG’s Construction Committee will provide essential project management for rebuilding efforts. - Disaster Case Management:
Through its Case Management Committee, the group will offer personalized, holistic support to meet survivors’ needs. - Addressing Unmet Needs:
The Unmet Needs Committee will identify and address any financial, material, or labor gaps in the recovery process. - Collaboration with Other Agencies:
The EFC-LTRG will work closely with FEMA, state and local emergency management, and national recovery organizations to ensure a unified and effective recovery effort.
Antonio Manning, Chair of the Eaton Fire Collaborative Leadership Council, highlighted the importance of strong leadership and accountability throughout the recovery process. “The Leadership Council is proud to guide this effort and ensure that governance, transparency, and accountability remain at the core of recovery,” said Manning. “The LTRG is the operational arm of our collaborative, bringing together nonprofits, faith groups, businesses, and government partners to turn shared vision into action.”
The launch event also showcased the upcoming Eaton Fire Collaboratory, which will serve as the central hub for all recovery-related activities. Located at 540 Woodbury Road in Altadena, the Collaboratory will house the EFC-LTRG office, host community meetings, and offer a resource center for residents seeking assistance.
Eaton Fire Collaborative Chair Antonio Manning (Photo – Monica Lopez)
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