Our Story

A foundation because stuff happens.

In the early morning of November 8, 2018, the first plume of the Camp Fire, the deadliest wildfire in California history, was seen over the west shores of Lake Almanor. Over the next 48 hours and the weeks that followed 100’s of evacuees from Paradise, Magalia, and Forest Ranch sought refuge here. The people of the Lake Almanor Basin stepped up to assist with raising over $35,000, establishing an evacuation center, a system for vetting needs and distributing funds.

We were caught flat-footed but were glad we were able to serve.

The next disaster came COVID-19 in 2021 and once again, without resources or funds and few volunteers, the community went to work quickly creating a needs assessment, a 24-hour help line and a shopping service for those most vulnerable.

It was evident that our community needed to put resources and systems in place because stuff happens.

Taking Action

In October of 2020 a small group gathered to discuss creating a foundation to provide the resources for the community to address challenges and lay plans for the future. This became the Steering Committee for the foundation and with needs, feasibility and goals confirmed, a mission was defined, bylaws adopted and Articles of Incorporation for The Almanor Foundation were filed December 2020.

In March 2021, the North Valley Community Foundation of Butte County, accepted The Almanor Foundation as a Fund within their organization to allow us to receive donations and contributions while awaiting the approval of our 501c3 charitable status. In February of 2022 The Almanor Foundation received 501c3 status and continues to partner with NVCF on common goals.