Wrightwood is hurting.

In the days since the recent tragedy, one thing has become abundantly clear: people want to help.

They want somewhere to gather. Somewhere to give. Somewhere to spend some time with their neighbors and turn the grief, concern and helplessness moving through this community into something useful.

That is what When Storms Gather, We Gather is for.

On Saturday, September 19, we’ll come together at Natalie’s Park for an afternoon and evening of live music, food, neighbors and direct support for the families affected.

Come for a little while or stay for the whole thing.

Bring a chair. Bring the kids. Listen to some music. See your neighbors. Give what you can.

And if all you can do is be there, that matters too.

This gathering is a community benefit, not a memorial or vigil. The families are welcome in whatever way feels right to them, with no expectation that they attend or participate publicly.

WHY SEPTEMBER 19

September 19 was originally scheduled for the Lone Pine Canyon Protection Alliance’s Don’t Quarry, Be Happy benefit.

We are postponing that event and putting the date, venue and effort already behind it toward our neighbors instead.

That decision is entirely consistent with why we started this work in the first place.

We spend a lot of time talking about protecting this place: its canyon, mountains, roads, air, safety and character.

But the largest part of what we are trying to preserve is the community itself.

The people who live here are not separate from that work. They are the reason for it.

There will be another day for Don’t Quarry, Be Happy.

September 19 is for this.

WHERE THE MONEY GOES

This part is simple.

Every dollar raised through this benefit goes directly to the families affected by the recent tragedy.

No event expenses will be deducted from the money raised.

The costs of bringing the community together are being donated, sponsored or covered separately.

Following the benefit, we will share the total amount raised and confirm that the funds have been distributed while respecting the privacy of the families receiving them.

When Storms Gather, We Gather.

A community benefit supporting the families affected by the recent tragedy.