In response to the recent fire that destroyed multiple homes and displaced families in the Gardnerville Ranchos, the East Fork Ember Foundation today announced the establishment of a dedicated Fire Recovery Fund to support impacted residents and assist ongoing local recovery efforts.

Formed in Summer 2025, the East Fork Ember Foundation was created to strengthen firefighter readiness, enhance emergency response capabilities, protect the lives, homes, and businesses of Carson Valley communities, and support victims of fire.

While the Foundation was preparing for its formal public launch in January 2026, the severity of this event underscored the urgent need to act—activating its mission in real time to support our neighbors in crisis.

The Fire Recovery Fund is designed to provide immediate relief and short-term recovery assistance for individuals and families affected by the fire to support the immediate needs of displaced residents impacted by the fire in coordination with the East Fork Fire Protection District.

“Our community has experienced a sudden and devastating loss,” said General Rick Nelson (Ret.), Chairman of the Board. “The East Fork Ember Foundation was created for moments like this. The Fire Recovery Fund allows us to respond quickly, coordinate responsibly, and ensure help reaches those who need it most.”

The Foundation’s mission is rooted in the belief that local response is strongest when supported by local leadership and community investment—ensuring resources are deployed swiftly, transparently, and where they are most needed.

“Every dollar raised through the Fire Recovery Fund for the December Ranchos Fire victims will be deployed with transparency and care,” said Jacques Etchegoyen, Ember Foundation Vice Chairman, retired Douglas County Commissioner, East Fork Fire Board and lifetime Carson Valley resident. “This fund provides a trusted, organized way for the community to help during a critical time.”

Community Leadership & Oversight

The East Fork Ember Foundation is governed by a community-led board committed to stewardship, accountability, and long-term public safety:

Chairman: General Rick Nelson (Ret.), Senior Vice President, Mark IV Capital
Vice Chairman: Jacques Etchegoyen, Retired
Second Vice Chairwoman: Shannon Harris, Director, Carson Valley Swim Center
Secretary: Shawnyne Garren, Douglas County Recorder
Treasurer: Renea Louie, CEO, Business Council of Douglas County and CEO Sotera Global Management
Stakeholder Advisor: Chief Alan Ernst, East Fork Fire Protection District
Stakeholder Advisor: Deputy Chief Larry Goss, East Fork Fire Protection District
Stakeholder Advisor: Joey Loehner, CEO Rural Medevac Alliance

“Our role is to provide a reliable local channel for giving,” said Shannon Harris, Second Vice Chairwoman. “The Fire Recovery Fund ensures donations are properly designated, coordinated with response partners, and used where they will make the greatest impact.”

Ways to Donate to the Fire Recovery Fund

It is easy to support the East Fork Ember Foundation Fire Recovery Fund.

Easily access the Foundation website www.embernv.org and click the donate button to make a secure, private donation.

Donations may also be made at any Greater Nevada Credit Union branch by depositing funds directly into the Foundation’s account:

Account Name: East Fork Ember Foundation *please call us for account number*
Memo: Sagebrook Fire Recovery Fund

Checks can be made payable to: East Fork Ember Foundation
Memo: “Sagebrook Fire Recovery Fund and may also be mailed or dropped off in person to: 1663 US Hwy 395 N., Suite 100, Minden, NV 89423, or dropped off at the Carson Valley Swim Center.

Corporate, Foundation & Matching Gifts

Businesses, foundations, and employers offering matching gift programs are encouraged to participate. Corporate contributions, sponsorships, and coordinated relief donations are urged.

About the East Fork Ember Foundation

Established in 2025, the East Fork Ember Foundation is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting the East Fork Fire Protection District by funding firefighter training, equipment, technology, community safety initiatives, as well as fire victim relief. The Foundation exists to bridge critical funding gaps, empower first responders, and protect Carson Valley communities, especially during emergency events.

The East Fork Ember Foundation is a qualified nonprofit organization, and donations are tax-deductible as allowed by law.

Together, we can help families recover, support our firefighters, and strengthen our community’s resilience.

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