In 2018, wildfires swept across Paradise, California and surrounding communities, destroying residents’ homes and the livelihoods of countless more. In response, GRID Alternatives North Valley launched a disaster recovery initiative to help low income homeowners rebuild, using their unique volunteer training model to create economic opportunity for underserved communities in the process.
Photographer Nathan Heleine visited Paradise capturing residents’ loss, recovery efforts, and undeniable resiliency as they rebuild.
Since January 2020, California has required all new homes to have solar panels as part of its mission to reduce greenhouse gas emissions. While the law marks a victory in the fight against climate change, it also means that homeowners rebuilding have one more cost to consider.
GRID North Valley’s disaster resiliency program bridges this economic divide by offering free solar energy installations to qualifying homeowners.
Evelyn Thomas (left) made a harrowing escape to survive the 2018 Camp Fire. After losing her house and much of her community to the fire, she’s starting over with a new home. With the help of Honnold Foundation funding, GRID North Valley installed a solar energy system on Evelyn’s new home as one of the first residents to benefit from GRID’s disaster recovery initiative.
GRID Alternatives also offers skilled trades training, connecting community members with job opportunities.
Sterling Gillmer (left) graduated from GRID’s workforce training and was soon hired by GRID’s North Valley office. In addition to his work in the community with GRID, Sterling volunteers as a youth basketball coach for his kids’ team.
In addition to being a part of the solar installation team, Sterling advocates for anti-recidivism work and helps GRID connect with members of the community who are overcoming a history in the criminal justice system.
Solar installations bring the entire community together. Volunteers, contractors, GRID staff, and installation trainees work together to mount panels, install electrical wiring, and more.
GRID’s training program prepares students with the solar installation skills needed to secure an entry level job in the industry.
The Honnold Foundation is committed to helping GRID North Valley increase disaster resiliency in Northern California. Make a gift today to support GRID North Valley, victims of the Paradise wildfire, and future Honnold Foundation partners.