Pete Villani and Family - Altadena Fire Recovery Fund

My name is Michelle Opitz (Bernstein) and I am a long-time friend of Pete Villani who was impacted by the recent Eaton Fire that decimated Altadena, where he and his family of four call home.

Pete’s neighborhood was hit hard, but Pete and his family evacuated. Being the person he is, he returned shortly after to save his home, which was on fire when he arrived. He not only managed to save his family’s house but also prevented several of his neighbors' homes from being lost to the fire or looted. His heroic deeds were even featured on CBS Morning News and KCAL News. Pete is always caring and looking out for others.

CBS News

KCAL News

The last two years have been especially tough financially for him and his family. Pete works as an operator and cinematographer on TV and low-budget features. Before this tragedy, he was already struggling due to the entertainment strikes in 2022 and the subsequent industry slowdown the following year. With work drying up, it has been financially rough, and on top of that, he has lost his union medical coverage for his family, due to lack of work.

Now, things have been made more difficult. Though Pete didn’t lose his home completely, he and his family are displaced and unable to return for the foreseeable future. Their neighborhood is mostly destroyed, and their house is uninhabitable. The fire caused significant damage, including severe smoke damage, and between the clean-up and repairs, it will take time—potentially six months or longer. Unfortunately, they will face numerous unexpected expenses in the future.

I am reaching out on behalf of Pete and his family during this challenging time. Please consider donating. Every contribution, no matter the size, will go directly to Pete and his family and make a profound difference as they work to recover. If you cannot donate,

please share this page to help spread the word.

Let’s come together to show Pete and his family that going above and beyond for friends and neighbors truly matters. Thank you from the bottom of our hearts for your kindness and support