Fire Recovery Aid for Kyle, Josh, & Baby Owen

Dear Friends and Compassionate Souls,

Fifteen years ago, I met Kyle in the graphic design office at Bowling Green State University. What started as a workplace friendship blossomed into a brotherhood that has spanned states, celebrations, and now, heartbreak. Today, I write with a heavy heart about Kyle, his partner Josh, and their precious son Owen, whose lives were upended by the devastating Altadena Fire this week.

Kyle and Josh's story is one of pure determination and love. Josh, raised by a single mother on a small farm, carried with him an unwavering work ethic. Kyle, who conquered severe ADHD to earn two degrees, showed that persistence could overcome any obstacle. Neither came from wealth, but both inherited something far more valuable—an understanding that true richness comes from giving back to others.

When they left Ohio for California, they carried little more than dreams and determination. Over five years, they transformed a modest Altadena house into what neighbors called "the most beautiful home they'd ever seen." But it wasn't just the aesthetic beauty that made their home special—it was the warmth and welcome they extended to everyone who crossed their threshold. Their home became our community's heart, hosting gatherings that brought people together from all walks of life.

Even while building their own dream, they never stopped lifting others up. Josh dedicated himself to raising millions for starving children through his work at Lagerlof, LLP, while Kyle channeled his income toward environmental causes and supporting the houseless. Despite their own financial challenges, they always found ways to help others in need.

This week, the Eaton Wildfire robbed them of everything—their beautiful home, their family heirlooms, Owen's beloved toys and comfort blankets, and decades of precious memories. But what hurts them most isn't the loss of possessions; it's the loss of their ability to be that sanctuary for our community, that gathering place where everyone felt welcome and loved.

They need our help now, not just to rebuild their home, but to restore a crucial piece of our Altadena community. Every donation, regardless of size, helps reconstruct more than walls and rooms—it helps rebuild the heart of our neighborhood, preserves over a century of history, and supports a family that has given so much to others.

I've watched Kyle and Josh face every challenge with grace and generosity. Even now, in their darkest hour, they speak of using this tragedy as an opportunity to help other families affected by the fire. This is why I'm reaching out to our extended community—from Los Angeles to Ohio and beyond—to rally around them.

Your contribution will help them rebuild their lives, replace Owen's necessities, and restore their ability to be that bright light our community so desperately needs. Together, we can turn this moment of devastation into a testament to the power of community and love.

With profound gratitude and hope…

Precious Yamaguchi & Family

Donate Here

P.S. Every share and every dollar brings us closer to rebuilding not just a home, but a cornerstone of our community. Thank you for being part of this journey of recovery and renewal.