Former Milwaukee Brewers star Ryan Braun, along with other prominent figures in sports, spearheaded a community relief effort called California Strong in response to the devastating Los Angeles wildfires. Braun, who was personally affected by the fires, having been evacuated from his home for six weeks, expressed profound gratitude for the relentless efforts of firefighters and first responders, acknowledging their heroic dedication and tireless work in protecting lives and properties. He emphasized the importance of recognizing and thanking these individuals who put themselves in harm’s way, often working for days without sleep, to combat the raging fires and safeguard the community.
Braun’s personal experience with the fires fueled his desire to help others impacted by the disaster. He joined forces with World Series champion Mike Moustakas, Detroit Lions quarterback Jared Goff, fellow Brewers star Christian Yelich, and Mike Attanasio from the Brewers’ ownership group to establish California Strong, an initiative operating under the umbrella of the YMCA. The organization’s mission is to provide comprehensive support to Californians grappling with the aftermath of natural disasters, offering both immediate and long-term assistance. The founders recognized the profound and long-lasting impact such events have on individuals and families, emphasizing the need for sustained support throughout the arduous rebuilding process.
Christian Yelich echoed Braun’s sentiments, highlighting the spirit of community and mutual support that emerges during times of crisis. He drew parallels to the Woolsey Fire seven years prior, emphasizing the lengthy and challenging recovery process that extends far beyond the initial emergency response. Yelich stressed the importance of providing sustained assistance to those affected, helping them regain their footing and navigate the complexities of rebuilding their lives over the long term. The California Strong initiative embodies this commitment, aiming to be a consistent source of support throughout the entire recovery journey.
Mike Moustakas shed light on the genesis of California Strong, explaining how it evolved from informal check-ins among the founders into a concerted effort to leverage their platforms for the greater good. Recognizing the opportunity to make a tangible difference, they partnered with the YMCA to establish a formal organization capable of reaching a wider audience and providing more impactful support. This collaborative effort, born out of a shared concern for their community, quickly gained momentum, uniting individuals and resources to aid those in need. The group’s dedication to their community was evident in their immediate response to the fires and their commitment to long-term recovery efforts.
Ryan Braun further elaborated on the driving force behind California Strong, emphasizing their deep connection to the community and their personal understanding of the challenges faced by those affected. Having grown up in the area and now raising families there, the founders felt a profound sense of empathy for those who had lost their homes and livelihoods. Braun particularly emphasized the traumatic impact of such events on families with young children, recognizing the daunting task of rebuilding lives shattered by disaster. California Strong’s mission, he reiterated, was to provide both immediate relief and ongoing support to help individuals and families navigate the complex and often overwhelming process of recovery.
The collaboration between California Strong and Proactive Sports played a crucial role in mobilizing resources and delivering aid to those in need. Emily Capretta, the owner of Proactive Sports, described their long-standing partnership with California Strong, dating back to their joint efforts following the Woolsey Fire and the Borderline shooting in 2018. Recalling the immediate response to the recent fires, Capretta recounted mobilizing a network of volunteers to provide Thanksgiving meals to displaced families and contacting Ryan Braun to initiate the California Strong response. This proactive approach underscores the organization’s commitment to providing timely and effective assistance in the face of disaster. The partnership between California Strong and Proactive Sports demonstrates the power of collaboration in amplifying community support and providing essential resources to those affected by tragedy. The group’s commitment to long-term recovery underscores their dedication to helping families rebuild their lives and regain a sense of normalcy.
