Angelenos Rise Together: Stories of Impact

As the year draws to a close, we begin with gratitude—for you and for the extraordinary compassion our community has shown in the face of profound loss. Earlier this week, as we prepared for the beloved Southern California tradition of the Rose Parade®—a celebration watched worldwide just before the one-year anniversary of the devastating fires—we had the privilege of gathering with wildfire survivors from Altadena, Malibu, Pacific Palisades and Pasadena to unveil Rising Together, a float created in their honor. (No wildfire funds were used to pay for the float).

Nearly nine months after the Eaton and Palisades fires, survivors continue to face immense challenges. The Department of Angels’ survey of 2,000 survivors shows that recovery is not quick or easy: families are still battling stalled or denied insurance claims, neighborhoods are coping with toxic soil, and many are struggling with the mental health impacts of repeated displacement. Rebuilding is expensive and emotionally taxing.

Last Monday, something heartbreaking happened in Los Angeles. Again. A 15-year-old U.S. citizen high school student with disabilities was handcuffed by federal agents outside Arleta High School — the latest in a troubling pattern of immigration raids that began in June.

As we mark six months since the devastating wildfires swept through Altadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu, we reflect on the extraordinary challenges our communities have faced—and the powerful, ongoing work to rebuild and heal.