Our Beginning: Answering a Simple but Powerful Question
Five years ago, a small group of us sat around a table and asked: Can we create something that helps our community grow and overcome the challenges that life throws at us?
We didn’t know exactly what that would look like, but we had learned from the Camp Fire and COVID-19 that life can change in an instant—and when it does, Plumas County needs support that is fast, local, and effective.
From Vision to Action: The Dixie Fire and Our Mission in Motion
Just six months after The Almanor Foundation officially launched, the Dixie Fire devastated our region. Suddenly, we weren’t just a community foundation in name—we were called into action.
Through partnerships and support from donors like you, our disaster relief fund raised over $1 million to help families and individuals recover. In collaboration with the North Valley Community Foundation, we coordinated over $2.5 million in immediate aid through the creation of a regional funders roundtable.
Donate to TAF’s Wildfire Relief Fund »
Tackling Long-Term Recovery: The Plumas Housing Initiative
After the immediate needs were addressed, one long-term issue emerged—housing.
We didn’t intend to become a housing agency, but The Almanor Foundation stepped up to start the conversation. Today, our work includes launching the Plumas Housing Council, a collaborative effort exploring creative and sustainable housing solutions for our workforce and future generations.
Learn more about our housing initiatives »
Helping Local Organizations Focus on What Matters Most
Through our Stewardship and Fiscal Sponsorship Funds, we help others do good—handling the paperwork so they can focus on their mission.
What started in 2022 as a single fund supporting the new Seneca Hospital has grown to 15 funds, including endowments, memorials, scholarships, and new community-driven initiatives across Plumas County.
Interested in starting a fund or honoring a loved one?
Celebrating the People Who Make This Possible
We are deeply grateful for our board members—past and present—and for our donors, partners, and volunteers.
A special thank you to Melissa Lopez, our first employee, whose steady leadership and heart have been at the foundation of everything we’ve built.
And we are proud to welcome Executive Director Janelle Orr, whose vision and strategic leadership are already guiding us toward deeper impact and broader awareness in the region.
Together, We’re Creating a Stronger Plumas County
Today, we can confidently answer that original question: Yes.
Yes, we’re making a difference. Yes, we’re growing a stronger Plumas County. Yes, we’re building a legacy of resilience. And yes, we need your support to keep going.
