By Victor Ledezma
American Red Cross Utah/Nevada Region Volunteer

Bruce Berwager, an Incline Village resident, found himself in the middle of a busy Red Cross shelter in Los Angeles, surrounded by evacuees trying to process their losses. At 69, and after a long career in senior management in the oil and gas industry, Bruce wasn’t there to seek help but to provide it.

“This wasn’t just about losing property,” he explained. “People were worried about their future. For some, their homes, jobs, and everything they depended on had been wiped out.”

On Jan. 7, 2025, several wildfires erupted across the Los Angeles metro area, tearing through multiple neighborhoods with alarming speed. The fires claimed the lives of more than two dozen people, destroyed over 15,000 homes and businesses, and left millions exposed to hazardous air quality. Nearly 200,000 people were forced to evacuate.

Offering Hope and Stability
Bruce joined the wildfire relief efforts on Jan. 13 as part of the second wave of Red Cross volunteers. The fires were still active, and shelters across the region were at capacity, housing evacuees who had nowhere else to turn. “Some people initially stayed with friends or even in their cars, but those options didn’t last long,” said Bruce, who also serves the American Red Cross of Northern Nevada as a member of the Board of Directors.

For two weeks, Bruce worked behind the scenes, assisting with shelter operations and helping evacuees access critical support. At the peak of the crisis, there were eight or nine shelters in use. Over time, as more evacuees found temporary housing, the Red Cross consolidated operations to fewer locations.

“Most people were deeply appreciative to have a safe place to stay and access to basic necessities,” Bruce recalled. “Our caseworkers were incredible, sitting down with people one-on-one to figure out next steps, whether that was financial aid, housing assistance, or emotional support.”

Not everyone at the shelters had owned a home before the fires. Some evacuees were already unhoused, and for them, the shelter provided stability they hadn’t had in months or even years.

“You saw a range of situations, from families rebuilding their lives to individuals who were simply looking for a place to land for a while,” Bruce said.

Discovering Strength and Generosity in Times of Need
While the disaster brought moments of profound loss, Bruce noted that it also highlighted the generosity and resilience of those affected. Many evacuees pitched in to help around the shelters, supporting their neighbors as best they could.

“People have a way of stepping up when it matters most,” Bruce said. “Even in really tough circumstances, you’d see small acts of kindness that made a big difference.”

The volunteers shared that same spirit of camaraderie, helping one another get through long, often emotionally draining days.

“You hear some very difficult stories, and it can weigh on you,” Bruce admitted. “But you make it work by leaning on your peers and staying focused on the work at hand.”

A Lifelong Commitment to Serving Others
Bruce’s commitment to the Red Cross isn’t new. He first volunteered as a teenager and through college but stepped away when his career took priority. When he retired, he knew he wanted to get involved again. “It gave me a meaningful way to spend my time,” Bruce said.

Though experienced in disaster response, Bruce acknowledged that each deployment brings its own challenges. “Every disaster has its own story,” he said. “Whether it’s one family or thousands of people affected, it’s significant for each person involved.”

Beyond shelter operations, Bruce highlighted the less visible work the Red Cross does during disasters. From damage assessments to mental health services, the organization provides a wide range of support to help survivors begin rebuilding their lives.

“It’s not always the headline-grabbing work,” he said. “But it’s what’s necessary to help people take that first step forward.”

Bruce encourages others to consider giving their time to causes like the Red Cross. “It’s incredibly rewarding,” he said. “Knowing you’ve been there for someone during one of the toughest times in their life—that’s worth it.”

For now, Bruce awaits the next call to action, whether it’s responding to fires, floods, or another emergency. “Disasters happen without warning, but the Red Cross is always ready,” he said.

If you’re interested in volunteering, the Red Cross offers opportunities to make a difference in communities across the country. Learn more and sign up at RedCross.org/volunteer.

How You Can Help
Join the Red Cross team and make a difference in your community or on the front lines of national emergencies. Red Cross disaster volunteers receive training to respond to crises, from local house fires to large-scale disasters like wildfires and hurricanes. With training and experience, volunteers can deploy to assist nationwide. Explore meaningful opportunities and find your fit by visiting redcross.org/volunteer.

Support Disaster Relief
Help support those impacted by disasters, both large and small, by contributing to the American Red Cross. Your donation allows the Red Cross to prepare for emergencies, respond swiftly, and assist in recovery efforts. To donate, visit redcross.org, call 1-800-RED CROSS, or text REDCROSS to 90999 to make a $10 donation.

About the American Red Cross
The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation’s blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org or CruzRojaAmericana.org, or follow us on social media.