Most everyone knows as President of the Chamber, I am a volunteer. I love my work with the chamber and appreciate the many opportunities for service to the community it affords.
The recent horrific firestorm and resulting incredibly tragic losses our people and communities have suffered, caused me to think about how I might be even more of service. So when Jeff Rein of Lake County called and asked me to put together a team to set up supply distribution locations in the county, I was honored.
When the first fire broke out and then the second and third, the Lake County Chamber answered the calls for help as well. Upon receiving requests from the county and government agencies for information, locating resources such as lodging for fire victims and support personnel, the need was astonishing — Melissa, Kathy and Jolene were pleased to be of service. The chamber soon had resources posted to our website with continuing updates. There is currently a comprehensive resource listing available for fire victims when you click on ‘Fire Recovery Services’ at www.lakecochamber.com.
I know most of us have never been involved in such a huge disaster. I certainly hadn’t. That makes what I am about to say, I think even more special. We are experiencing the most amazing outpouring of generosity from all across the nation.
At Lampson Field at the Work Right Building, we’ve set up an entire staging and distribution depot. Our goal is to “serve our customers (the fire storm victims) the best we can by distributing what they need to bridge this unfortunate time and find out exactly what else we can do to help.” We receive tons of goods each week, sort and deliver them to the various locations impacted around Lake County. Our philosophy at the distribution center is to help fire victims as a customer, asking what they need and how can we help you.
Hours for the distribution center are Monday through Friday 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Saturday by appointment. Call 707.263.2927.
Many, many folks have pitched in locally — I salute you all! And I know from the feedback we receive that so, so many are grateful for what we are doing. I feel, however I do need to recognize two entities in particular, the Thornton’s of Kelseyville, Dad, Gene; Mom, Lori; daughter-in-law, Sharon and grandson, Parker. This family has worked every single day since the fires started over two months ago. They’ve helped at every stage and job it takes to help our community through this challenging time. I also wish to recognize Katherine ‘Kat’ McDowell of Middletown. She comes twice a week to the distribution center to pick up and deliver supplies in south County, in addition she volunteers one day a week to work at the distribution center. Their only compensation is a grateful thank you or smile when what they do touches someone’s life.
They are amazing.
We know there are more just like them who might be looking to help even more. If you would like to join us, know someone or know of a person impacted by the fires that still needs help, contact me directly at 707.263.2927.
Ted Mandrones serves as President of the Lake County Chamber of Commerce
