The hearts of Coloradoans go out to those in Texas today. Seeing the fire devastation in that state reminds us that we've seen this type of thing first-hand. One year ago today, what would end up being Colorado's worst-ever wildfire began in the hills west of Boulder.
On the morning of September 6th, 2010, the Fourmile Canyon fire started. Within a couple of hours, the blaze was out of control. Within a few more hours, it was evident that the lives of residents in those mountain communities would be forever changed.
The Fourmile Canyon Fire became the most destructive wildfire in this state's history, destroying 169 homes and causing $217 million in damage. One year later, the work to repair the lives affected and rebuild the property destroyed continues.
In the immediate aftermath of the fire, Foothills United Way created the Fourmile Canyon Fire Relief Fund to help with immediate, unmet needs, and to focus on long-term recovery. The public and local businesses responded right away, making cash and in-kind donations, and offering to volunteer however possible. The fund began helping people within 72 hours, and continues to do so today. A mental health voucher program was created, to align fire victims with mental health practitioners to assist with physchological recovery. Fire victims have been able to attend meetings with United Policyholders, a non-profit group designed to help with insurance issues. These are but a few of the resources and long-term recovery efforts made possible through the generous donations made to the Fire Relief Fund.
Recently, Foothills United Way hired Gold Hill Mayor Amy Hardy as the Fourmile Recovery Resource coordinator, to manage the recovery effort. Additionally, a new online destination has been created, designed to provide a place for those affected by the Four Mile Canyon Fire to learn about local initiatives and supporting the re-growth of families and communities. The Boulder Mountain Resources website lists available resources, recovery efforts, and upcoming events and projects to support recovery.
The next event is A Night At The Gold Hill Inn, a special dinner featuring some of the Boulder area's best-known chefs. There will also be live music and an auction. All proceeds will benefit recovery efforts.
UPDATE, 9/8/11: A Night At The Gold Hill Inn was a great success; thank you to all who attended, and to those who made the evening possible! There any many other great information sessions and events coming up in the next few days and weeks. For a complete listing, please visit the Boulder Mountain Resourses website.
On this one-year anniversary of the fire, Foothills United Way wants to send its most sincere thanks to everyone who has contributed their time, resources and energy to aid in recovery. For more information on Fourmile Canyon Fire Recovery, please visit Boulder Mountain Resources. For more information, including how to donate to the continued recovery effort, contact Foothills United Way at 303-444-4013.
