Recover | Rebuild | rise
Santiam Canyon Long Term Recovery Group
The Santiam Canyon Long Term Recovery Group (LTRG) is committed to supporting the wildfire recovery efforts of a string of small towns along Oregon’s North Santiam River — including Lyons, Mehama, Elkhorn, Mill City, Gates, Detroit, Idanha and Breitenbush.
Our Mission
is to support the recovery efforts of residents, property owners, organizations and businesses affected by the Lionshead and Beachie Creek Wildfires in the Santiam Canyon region of Marion County and Linn County.
Santiam Disaster Services
Supporting Your Wildfire Recovery
SDS is supporting the recovery and rebuild of Santiam Canyon wildfire survivors by offering disaster case management services. Assistance is open-ended and not dependent on income.
volunteer
The LTRG is coordinating a full array of volunteer opportunities through the volunteer management subcommittee. Help us advance the work of recovery, rebuilding and long-term resilience in the Santiam Canyon.
donate
As our communities were devastated, local individuals and organizations gathered to collect financial donations and ensure the long-term stewardship of gifts. Your contribution to our partners directly supports the recovery of wildfire-affected households, organizations, and businesses in the Santiam Canyon.
Partner
Our recovery is not possible without strong partnerships across multiple sectors: from national to regional to local, from public to private to non-profit. The LTRG is seeking strong relationships and collaborations with organizations and individuals from all areas. Together, we play a crucial role in the Santiam Canyon. Contact to us to learn how you fit into our network.
Learn about the LTRG Defensible Space Grant - AVAILABLE NOW
By Alaa Elassar, CNN
As California wildfires become more frequent, people will need to fireproof their homes. Here’s what it takes to do it
California Gov. Gavin Newsom checks out fire damage.
California Office of the Governor
Stories from the canyon
“Joy is on hold as a survivor. It is temporarily muted,” recounts Nancy Jankowski.
Nancy and her partner lost his four generation 100+ year-old home along with two barns, farming equipment, and nearly 100 acres of timber. Nancy’s home was not only her shelter, but also her sanctuary. Her greatest joy came from relaxing on her property, taking in the views with her partner, and spending time with her animals (horses/cattle/dogs/cats). Being able to see the horses in the pasture next to the house in the mornings, feed them, work with them, and ride. Enjoying the scenery was her release; her peaceful time.
Two months after the fire Nancy started to volunteer at Anthony Hall. The Hall served as a distribution site that housed various wildfire survivor needs including food, clothing, and household items. As a survivor, Nancy wanted to contribute to the community and help other survivors in need. While volunteering she heard of a job opportunity with Santiam Service Integration, but she was not ready due to the emotions of the wildfire. Before the fire, Nancy had a successful career in marketing and communications that spanned 30 years. She took time off and obtained her MBA. She was ready for a change professionally. “I was hoping to reinvent myself and my career,” Nancy said. Nancy came to a spot in her recovery that she was ready to begin employment; on August 9, 2021 Nancy was hired as the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund Data Manager. Through her position as Data Manager, Nancy wants to remain connected and support the community as the rebuild continues. “As a survivor it gives me hope and hope for the community to move forward.” When she is not working on process improvement or streamlining systems for the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund, Nancy spends time with her horses and baby cows. She enjoys cooking (and misses a “real” kitchen) and likes to catch an episode of Heartland.
The one-year anniversary of the wildfire just passed and Nancy remains in the recovery process of rebuilding her home. Adjusting to the post fire normal has not been an easy journey, but one she has navigated with resiliency, positivity and grace.
Every life experience comes with a life lesson weaved in the mist of the pain and suffering. Life is our greatest and most important teacher. Nancy holds dear to several life lessons as she navigates through life. “Don’t take anything for granted because you may not have it tomorrow. Enjoy every moment and look for the good. Live your life.”
Welcome to the team, Nancy.