Help Cecily Help Her Parents Diane and Kerry After Fire

Dear Friends and Community Members,

I am reaching out to support Diane and Kerry, beloved members of the Pacific Palisades community who recently lost their home to the Los Angeles fires. This has left these cherished community pillars starting over from scratch during what should be their golden years.

Diane and Kerry have spent their lives enriching our community. As a filmmaker turned teacher, Kerry empower students, giving them the tools and confidence to share their unique perspectives through film. Even after retirement, Diane and Kerry chose to remain in Pacific Palisades, continuing to be vital threads in the fabric of the community.

Their impact runs deep. Kerry's former students still speak of how his guidance helped them find their voice and pursue their dreams. When teachers new to LA needed a place to have Thanksgiving dinner (people like me), they opened their home to feed us all. Diane has been equally instrumental in supporting local theatre and community initiatives. When attending Theatre Palisades, you likely saw Diane’s smiling face at the box office and cheering on each performance. Their daughter followed in her father’s path, teaching students and supporting teachers throughout LA. Together, Diane and Kerry exemplify the spirit of service and connection that makes our community special.

Now, they need our help. The loss of their belongings represents not just material possessions, but a lifetime of memories. More critically, the loss of their retirement savings threatens their financial security at a time when they should be enjoying the retirement they worked so hard to earn.

Your contribution will provide immediate help in providing clothing, food and temporary shelter as they plan for the future. No matter the size, will help.

Thank you for any support you can offer - whether it's a donation or sharing this campaign.

With gratitude,

Catherine Underwood, grateful family friend