One805: Preparing Communities, Equipping First Responders & Supporting Public Safety
Photo courtesy of One805.
Natural disasters are becoming more common. In the last year alone, there were 22 separate billion-dollar disasters including droughts, hurricanes, severe storms, wildfires, and more.
Although this year’s devastation was extreme — the wildfires that burned on the west coast from August to December caused $16.5B in damage and 46 deaths — they are not uncommon. Luckily for first responders in the County of Santa Barbara, One805, a nonprofit, was founded in 2018 to assist them.
How did the organization get started?
In December 2017, the Thomas Fire devastated the Santa Barbara area. It burned more than 280,000 acres and destroyed more than 1,000 buildings; but the worst of the fire’s damage came in January 2018 when rain hit the same area. Without trees to slow heavy rains, mudslides and debris flows destroyed hundreds of homes and claimed the lives of 23 community members. Knowing that their local first responders had spent more than a month fighting these natural disasters, the Santa Barbara community created One805 to assist them and their departments.
What does One805 do?
The nonprofit’s first event brought together actors, entertainers, singers, and other performers to host The Kick Ash Bash, which raised $2 million to purchase essential equipment and provide counseling for first responders after the tragedy. By hosting the event in February 2018, it also gave first responders, community members, and their families a chance to relax after the worst of the natural disasters’ impact had passed.
Today, One805 still focuses on first responders, purchasing equipment, and supporting public safety. For example, to assist in combating COVID-19, the organization bought 45 electric decontaminating foggers for all sheriff, police, and fire departments in Santa Barbara County.
How can you help?
Earlier this year, employee volunteers made COVID care kits during one of our virtual volunteer programs. These kits — filled with items like hand sanitizer, masks, tissues, and other items — ensure that the first responders not only have enough of these items to keep themselves safe, but also ensure that they could distribute these items to those in their community who they may encounter on calls without access to these items. Masks are also being provided to public elementary schools, which are finally beginning to re-open in California. Additionally, the organization accepts monetary donations via its website.
Would you and your colleagues like to get involved in our virtual volunteer events? Visit our website to learn more about the virtual programs or set up a meeting with one of our sales representatives to discuss your concerns.