As a church that believes in wide-eyed participation, we want to give you as many opportunities as possible to come alongside Jesus in the journey of reconciliation. That's why we offer weekly Do Some Good opportunities.

Please don't feel pressure to participate in everything, but we do hope that these posts give you an opportunity to plug in and serve the community at your capacity.

DO SOME GOOD

Los Angeles County remains in the throes of massive wildfires leading to the displacement of more than 180,000 residents. The wildfires have reportedly destroyed thousands of properties and claimed 24 lives as first responders continue to battle the flames throughout the region. We stand in solidarity with our neighbors across the country, lifting them up in prayer and offering assistance how we can. Here are some ways that you can tangibly help from afar. Simply click the link next to the descriptor for more information.

-This document — made by survivors of the devastating Marshall Fire — offers advice for both people affected by the fires and those who want to help (bit.ly/3PxGVo1).

-GoFundMe created a centralized hub of verified fundraising pages related to the wildfires (gofundme.com/c/act/wildfire-relief/california).

-The LAUSD Education Emergency Relief Fund is providing immediate assistance to families and Los Angeles Unified School District employees affected by the devastating fires. The fund will offer direct cash assistance and support to families and employees affected by the fires and offer support for other immediate and long-term needs for students, families and teachers (lausd.org/Page/20905).

-The Black Music Action Coalition has announced an immediate relief fund with a focus on Black residents and small businesses in the L.A. area. The organization will disperse 100% of monies received to relief efforts with urgency as funds come in (bit.ly/4h6yH2B).

-This Is About Humanity launched a fund supporting front and second-line migrant farm workers, day laborers, and other essential workers and their families severely impacted. Through Jan. 31, TIAH is matching up to $50,000 in donations to provide critical relief, housing support, food assistance and essential resources (bit.ly/4062SiY).

-Donations to the LA Fire Department Foundation will go to supporting the heroic firefighters responding in real-time to protect lives, homes and communities (supportlafd.kindful.com).

-The CA Fire Foundation is working with local fire agencies and community-based organizations to provide direct financial support to impacted residents as details of the damage emerge. The California Fire Foundation also provides critical support to surviving families of fallen firefighters, firefighters and the communities they serve (bit.ly/3PvotfV).

-Still looking to do something other than a financial donation? Grab family and friends - even the kiddos - and write cards to a firefighter! Between LAFD, local agencies, volunteer firefighters, and inmates, there are thousands of people fighting these wildfires who could benefit from a note of encouragement and a reminder of support. You can mail these directly to LAFD at 200 North Main Street, 16th Floor Los Angeles, CA 90012. If you do, let us know!

If you would like to have an initiative, event, drive and/or volunteer opportunity highlighted in our weekly “Do Some Good” communication, please fill out this form. Submit information at least two weeks before you would like it to be shared.