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2025 Grants Challenge

Eaton Canyon Youth Echo Project

The Eaton Canyon Youth Echo Project empowers youth impacted by the Eaton Canyon Fire by providing safe spaces to share their stories, process their experiences, and build emotional resilience. Through creative expression and direct engagement, the program supports healing while shaping strategies to meet the evolving needs of local youth.

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What is the primary issue area that your application will impact?

Wildfire relief

In which areas of Los Angeles will you be directly working?

San Gabriel Valley

In what stage of innovation is this project, program, or initiative?

Pilot or new project, program, or initiative (testing or implementing a new idea)

What is your understanding of the issue that you are seeking to address?

The founders of DenaGood Foundation have been actively supporting Eaton Canyon Fire survivors since the fire began, providing case management to help meet the ongoing needs of displaced families. Through this work, they have witnessed firsthand the emotional toll on children, as shared by parents navigating the evolving stages of grief. As parents themselves, they understand how even small disruptions in a child’s environment can have lasting impacts, and they are committed to making both holistic and traditional therapeutic resources accessible to the entire community.

Describe the project, program, or initiative this grant will support to address the issue.

This grant will support a range of holistic and traditional therapeutic services, including yoga and movement therapy, peer circles and storytelling, guided journaling, breath-based relaxation, expressive art sessions, and licensed therapy and counseling. It will also fund the development and implementation of an 8-week trauma-informed curriculum, where participants engage in structured classes and group activities designed to promote healing, emotional resilience, and a sense of community.
For special needs youth affected by the Eaton Canyon Fire, we will offer tailored, trauma-informed therapies such as sensory integration, animal-assisted therapy, art and music therapy, and adapted mindfulness practices. These services will provide personalized support to help them manage trauma, express emotions, and build resilience in a safe and nurturing environment.

Describe how Los Angeles County will be different if your work is successful.

If our work is successful, the youth of Altadena and Pasadena who were impacted by the Eaton Canyon Fire will feel seen, supported, and empowered in their healing journey. They will gain access to culturally responsive, trauma-informed care and develop a diverse set of coping skills to navigate adversity and unforeseen challenges.
Through our program, these young people will restore their sense of safety and confidence, strengthen their emotional intelligence, and build resilience. They will not only heal from their experiences but grow into self-aware, compassionate leaders who feel connected to their community and confident in their ability to shape its future.
Ultimately, our success will help create a generation of youth who understand their value, trust their voice, and know they are supported by a community invested in their emotional wellness and long-term success.

Approximately how many people will be impacted by this project, program, or initiative?

Direct Impact: 500

Indirect Impact: 4,000