2025 was a year defined by transition, collaboration, and powerful community impact across Plumas County. As The Almanor Foundation reflects on the past year, one theme rises above all others: when this community comes together with purpose, remarkable things happen.
A Year of Leadership and Renewal
The Foundation welcomed new leadership in 2025, beginning with the arrival of Dr. Lisa Kelly, whose background in education, workforce development, and community engagement is already shaping the next chapter of our work. We also celebrated the contributions of Melissa Lopez, whose years of service helped build the strong foundation we stand on today.
The Board of Directors made several key leadership appointments, including Susan Bryner as President & CEO and Josh Huddleston as Board Chair. Their combined vision, steady guidance, and deep community roots are helping steer the Foundation toward long-term resilience and growth. Learn more about our team.
Together with our donors, partners, and volunteers, we advanced critical housing initiatives, expanded charitable giving, strengthened nonprofit capacity, and invested in the long-term vitality of Plumas County.
Our Mission in Action
The Almanor Foundation exists to strengthen Plumas County by:
- Supporting local nonprofits
- Enhancing economic opportunity
- Fostering unity and connection
- Allocating resources where they matter most
We envision a county where every resident — youth, families, workers, and elders — can flourish.
2025 Highlights & Impact
Plumas Housing Council: One Year of Progress
The Plumas Housing Council celebrated its first anniversary with a milestone moment: the ribbon cutting for the first Welcome Home Greenville house. Purchased by a Dixie Fire survivor, this home represents not just shelter, but renewal, dignity, and hope.
The Council’s work also received recognition from Senator Dahle’s Office, underscoring the importance of this community-driven effort.
Advancing Attainable Workforce Housing
In partnership with organizations across the county, The Almanor Foundation helped develop a strategic plan for delivering high-quality, attainable workforce housing. A major step forward came with the transition of the Attainable Workforce Housing Project to Plumas Rural Services (PRS) and the successful securing of CDBG R funds for a 38‑unit rental housing development.
This work lays the groundwork for long-term solutions that support local workers, families, and economic vitality.
Wildfire Relief & Recovery
Through the Wildfire Relief and Recovery Fund, the Foundation granted $184,157 to organizations supporting residents and rebuilding community infrastructure. Recipients included:
- Plumas Animal Welfare Society
- Attainable Workforce Housing
- Plumas Housing Council
- Indian Valley Thrift Store
These grants continue to support communities still healing from wildfire impacts.
Growth in Charitable Impact Funds
In 2025, five new Charitable Impact Funds joined our stewardship portfolio, supporting:
- Youth conservation and leadership
- Wildlife and habitat protection
- Arts education in local schools
- Youth recreation and enrichment
- Environmental storytelling and education
- Community arts and culture through “Music Under the Stars”
This growth reflects increasing trust in The Almanor Foundation as a philanthropic partner.
Community Events & Engagement
From the Big Bopper Bash to the Chilly Chili Cook-Off, 2025 was filled with opportunities for neighbors to gather, celebrate, and support local initiatives. The Foundation also proudly supported the Maidu Consortium’s Logging Jamboree, honoring the cultural and historical significance of the region’s logging heritage.
Stories of Impact
A Homecoming in Greenville
The completion and sale of the first Welcome Home Greenville house brought tears, applause, and renewed hope to a community still rebuilding. This project stands as a testament to what is possible when a community unites around a shared purpose.
After losing their building in the Dixie Fire, volunteers reopened the thrift store in a converted storage unit at “The Spot.” A Foundation grant helped install heating and air conditioning, ensuring the store could continue serving residents year-round.
With support from volunteers, veterinarians, and ongoing Foundation grants, a feral cat management program continues to protect both animals and public health — a need that grew significantly after the Dixie Fire.
A Special Thank You to Collins Holding Company
For four years, Collins Pine, Chester and the Collins Holding Company have been a steadfast supporters of The Almanor Foundation. Their generosity reflects the very best of Plumas County’s spirit — a belief in community, compassion, and shared responsibility.
Looking Ahead to 2026
The year ahead promises continued momentum. Key initiatives include:
- Launching the Career & Technical Education (CTE) Initiative, connecting students with high-wage, high-demand career pathways
- Expanding nonprofit support and capacity-building services
- Strengthening stewardship and endowment offerings
- Advancing attainable workforce housing
- Supporting long-term recovery efforts
- Building partnerships that uplift youth, families, and local organizations
And of course, the 2026 Chilly Chili Cook-Off returns on February 14, bringing warmth, flavor, and community spirit to the winter season.
With Gratitude
To our donors, partners, volunteers, and neighbors: thank you. Your trust and generosity make this work possible. Together, we are building a stronger, more connected, and more resilient Plumas County.
