Evan Spiegel, the co-founder of Snapchat, has teamed up with Miguel Santana, the CEO of the California Community Foundation, to launch an innovative initiative aimed at supporting the residents of Southern California affected by recent wildfires. This collaborative effort, known as the Department of Angels, brings together a diverse group of organizations and individuals to address the challenges faced by communities in Altadena and Pacific Palisades in the aftermath of the devastating fires.
Coming Together for a Cause
The Department of Angels is just one of several initiatives led by prominent figures like developer Rick Caruso, sports icons Magic Johnson and Casey Wasserman, and Times Executive Chairman Dr. Patrick Soon-Shiong, all working towards the monumental task of rebuilding after what is expected to be the costliest natural disaster recovery in U.S. history. Despite initial concerns about rivalries and overlapping efforts, the leaders of these various groups have committed to collaboration and cooperation in the spirit of collective action.
During a recent meeting at Snapchat’s headquarters in Santa Monica, Spiegel and Santana emphasized the importance of putting aside personal agendas and working together towards a common goal. With over 150 Snap Inc. employees displaced by the fires, Spiegel’s personal commitment to philanthropy and community service has driven him to take an active role in the recovery efforts. Santana, with his extensive experience in government and civic leadership, brings a wealth of knowledge and connections to the table, ensuring that the Department of Angels is well-positioned to make a meaningful impact.
Building Bridges for Recovery
The Department of Angels is not just a financial initiative; it is a grassroots movement that seeks to empower impacted residents and give them a voice in the rebuilding process. By engaging with local communities in Altadena, Pasadena, Pacific Palisades, and Malibu, the founders of this initiative aim to provide long-term support and assistance to those in need. From navigating insurance claims to coordinating with government agencies like FEMA and the EPA, the Department of Angels is committed to ensuring that recovery efforts are community-driven and inclusive.
In addition to the $10 million in seed money contributed by Snap Inc., the California Community Foundation, Spiegel, and Snapchat co-founder Bobby Murphy, the Department of Angels plans to work closely with neighborhood leaders to implement a “block captain” model that proved successful in the aftermath of the 2017 Santa Rosa fire. By fostering a sense of community ownership and engagement, the Department of Angels hopes to create a sustainable framework for recovery that goes beyond mere physical reconstruction.
As other prominent figures like Patrick Soon-Shiong and Rick Caruso launch their own recovery initiatives, the collective response to the wildfires in Southern California continues to gain momentum. With a focus on collaboration, innovation, and community engagement, these efforts represent a new paradigm in disaster recovery that prioritizes the needs of residents and fosters a sense of unity and resilience in the face of adversity.
In conclusion, the Department of Angels and its counterparts are leading the charge in redefining how we approach disaster recovery, demonstrating that a united front and a shared commitment to service can make a world of difference in rebuilding our communities. As we look to the future, let us draw inspiration from these examples of compassion, dedication, and cooperation, knowing that together, we can overcome any challenge that comes our way.
