As devastating wildfires ravaged Southern California, Modesto High School junior Ryan Nazari felt compelled to act. Watching the heartbreaking news coverage, a sense of helplessness struck him—but only briefly. Nazari soon realized that while he couldn’t be on the ground helping in person, he could still make an impact from hundreds of miles away.
“I felt sick inside, knowing what was happening in the Los Angeles area,” Ryan shared. “But then I thought about it and realized I could do something. I could at least find a way to help people affected by this.”
A Spark Becomes a Flame: Launching the “Embers of Hope” Fundraiser
Determined to make a difference, Ryan launched a fundraiser called “Embers of Hope " to collect monetary donations for victims of the Eaton and Palisades fires. Initially considering a personal donation, he realized that involving others could make the effort exponentially more effective.
“I could make a small donation,” Ryan explained. “But how much more impactful would it be if I got other people involved? What if we could collectively raise $10,000? That could really benefit the people there.”
The fundraiser supports the American Red Cross, which Ryan chose because of its reputation for disaster relief. The organization has deployed more than 200 workers to Southern California, offering safe shelter, food, emotional support, and medical aid to those displaced by the fires.
Building a Community of Support
Ryan’s efforts quickly gained traction, extending far beyond his immediate circle. Starting with friends and family, he encouraged them to spread the word to their networks.
“Most people wanted to help; they just weren’t exactly sure how,” he said. “Once I shared my fundraising page, people got really into it.”
His approach was simple yet effective: emails, texts, conversations—anything to raise awareness. What started as a local outreach effort expanded rapidly, demonstrating the power of community and collective goodwill.
An Impactful Outcome: Raising More Than $8,000 and Counting
Ryan’s fundraiser has brought in more than $8,000, with additional contributions still rolling in. He humbly attributes the success to the generosity of others, but it’s clear that his initiative and determination sparked this chain reaction of giving.
“You don’t really notice how much you’ve raised until you take a step back,” he reflected.
Looking ahead, Ryan plans to keep the momentum going by continuing to reach out and encourage more donations. He also hopes to inspire his peers to find their own ways to make a difference.
A Message of Hope: Encouraging Others to Help
“It doesn’t have to be through me,” Ryan emphasized. “It can be through any charity you think would help. Or if you want to organize your own fundraiser, that would be great. No matter how small, every contribution helps bring hope to those forced to rebuild their lives.”
Ryan’s efforts are a shining example of how one person’s determination can ignite a powerful movement. Through his leadership and the support of a caring community, the “Embers of Hope” glow brightly for those in need.
Support the Effort
For more information on Ryan’s fundraiser, visit his “Embers of Hope” American Red Cross donation drive page. With many parts of Los Angeles County still smoldering from wildfires, he aims to raise $10,000 for wildfire victims.
