In the heart of Los Angeles County, as wildfires ravaged neighborhoods and displaced thousands, stories of resilience and unity emerged, showcasing the indomitable human spirit.
One such story is that of Chef Daniel Shemtob. After losing his dream home in the Palisades fire, he reportedly channeled his grief into action. Using his food truck, Shemtob prepared and delivered meals to first responders and evacuees, embodying the essence of community support.
His story reminds us that even in the face of personal loss, we have the power to rise above and help others.
Disasters like wildfires, floods or earthquakes test our strength and adaptability. But they also reveal something extraordinary about humanity: our capacity to come together, support each other, and build hope when it’s needed most.
Let’s explore what drives us to rise to the occasion during crises and how we can prepare to be better neighbors and allies in the face of future challenges.
Rising to the occasion
Why do some people instinctively step forward during disasters, while others might hesitate? Research shows that humans possess an innate altruism—a natural inclination to help others, particularly when facing a shared challenge. This instinct often kicks in during times of crisis when empathy and cooperation are most needed.
Adrenaline plays a role, too. In high-stress situations, our bodies produce chemicals that heighten awareness and drive action. Combined with a sense of purpose, this surge can empower ordinary people to perform extraordinary acts, from rescuing neighbors to organizing relief efforts.
Moreover, kindness is contagious. Psychologists call it “social contagion”—when witnessing someone else’s bravery or generosity inspires us to do the same. It’s a ripple effect that transforms individual acts into a community-wide movement of support.
Community heroism
The recent Los Angeles wildfires offer countless examples of people rising to the occasion. In Altadena, as the Eaton Fire advanced, residents banded together, forming impromptu brigades to evacuate families and protect homes. Gail, a local resident, recalled how strangers she had never met helped save her property by dousing it with water. “I don’t know who all these guys are helping to save my house, but I’m very grateful,” she said.
Similarly, the LA County Community Fire Brigade, a group of trained volunteers, worked alongside firefighters during the Franklin Fire. Their efforts were publicly praised by Malibu’s mayor, highlighting how community involvement can complement official disaster response teams.
These stories underscore a powerful truth: heroism doesn’t require special training or resources—just a willingness to help.
Be a good neighbor: Building a resilient community begins long before disaster strikes. By fostering strong connections and preparing together, neighbors can be ready to support one another when challenges arise. Here’s how:
Before a disaster
—Host preparedness workshops: Organize neighborhood events featuring local experts or first responders who can teach practical skills, such as using fire extinguishers or creating evacuation plans.
—Emergency supply sharing: Start a shared resource list within your community, identifying who can contribute items like first-aid kits, flashlights, or portable chargers.
—Practice drills: Simulate potential scenarios like fire evacuations or earthquake safety drills to ensure everyone knows their roles and responsibilities.
During a disaster
—Coordinate transportation: Check in with neighbors, especially the elderly or disabled, who may need assistance evacuating. Arrange carpools or help transport pets.
—Create a communication hub: Establish a group chat or physical meeting spot where neighbors can share updates, needs, and resources in real time.
—Support pets: Identify pet-friendly shelters and ensure neighbors with animals have access to emergency pet supplies or transport options.
After a disaster
—Organize cleanups: Rally neighbors to clear debris or rebuild damaged areas together, turning recovery efforts into a collective mission.
—Offer emotional support: Trauma often lingers long after the physical damage is addressed. Be available to listen to neighbors’ experiences or help connect them with counseling resources.
—Coordinate donation drives: Collect and distribute items like clothing, food, or household supplies to those in need. Include detailed labels and lists to streamline distribution.
By focusing on these practical steps, neighbors can transform moments of crisis into opportunities for connection and resilience.
Culture of kindness: Creating a community that naturally rises to the occasion requires a commitment to everyday acts of kindness and mutual support. These efforts, while small on their own, can have a profound impact over time.
Small acts, big impact: Sometimes, it’s the simplest gestures that mean the most. Helping an elderly neighbor carry groceries, shoveling snow for someone who’s unwell, or leaving a kind note for someone experiencing hardship can foster a culture of care. These small actions, repeated over time, lay the groundwork for larger acts of heroism when crises arise.
Encourage volunteerism: Regular involvement in community service builds stronger networks and nurtures skills that can be invaluable in emergencies. Consider joining local organizations, such as food banks, shelters, or environmental groups. Share stories of fulfillment and connection to inspire others to get involved.
Sharing positive stories: The stories we tell shape our communities. Use neighborhood newsletters, social media, or community meetings to celebrate acts of kindness and recognize local heroes. Sharing these narratives not only inspires others but also reinforces a collective identity of care and responsibility.
For example, during the recent fires, a viral story about firefighters saving a group of stranded pets led to an outpouring of donations for animal shelters. Highlighting such stories can create momentum for greater community action.
The Los Angeles wildfires have shown us that even in the most challenging times, we are capable of extraordinary acts of courage, kindness, and unity. By understanding what drives people to rise to the occasion and by proactively fostering connections and preparedness, we can strengthen our communities against future challenges.
Disasters will come and go, but the bonds we build now will define how we face them. Let us commit to being good neighbors every day—not just in moments of crisis—so that when the unexpected happens, we are ready to stand together. After all, humanity’s greatest strength lies in its collective spirit.
Patti Cotton is a thought partner to CEOs and their teams to help manage complexity and change. Reach her via email at Patti@PattiCotton.com.