Help Gretchen Rebuild Her Life After Devastating Wildfire

Yesterday, the unimaginable happened to the community we hold so dear—two of my (IV's) former homes are gone, reduced to ashes. And among the countless lives upended is our dear friend, Gretchen Ritter, who is truly like family to both of us.

Gretchen, the first person to say yes to anyone in need, is now the one who needs our help. After enduring a year filled with challenges we wouldn’t wish on anyone, she has now lost her home and all of her belongings in the fires. She escaped with her precious dog, Griso, her Jeep, a small suitcase, and a handful of clothes: four pairs of jeans, four sweatshirts, a few t-shirts, and three pairs of shoes. Everything else—her cherished keepsakes, family photos, her mother’s pearls, and the cozy, welcoming home she poured her heart into—is gone.

For the sake of her privacy, we won’t share the full extent of what she’s endured this past year—that’s her story to tell when she’s ready. But this loss, piled on top of everything else, is unfathomable.

Despite it all, Gretchen remains the same person who has always shown up for others. Whether it’s supporting our EBW community, saying yes to every opportunity to help someone, or being the unwavering rock in our lives, Gretchen has always been there. She’s the kind of person who would give you the shirt off her back if it meant helping you move forward.

Now, it’s our turn to show up for her.

Gretchen is determined to rebuild her life, but she can’t do it alone. She needs us—her village—to rally around her. Whether you can contribute financially, donate household items, provide clothing, or simply share this post to spread the word, every single act of kindness makes a difference.

Here’s how you can help:

Donate: We’ve started a GoFundMe to help Gretchen get back on her feet. Every dollar helps provide immediate relief and support.

Other contributions: Pam is coordinating logistics if you’d like to donate items. Please email [email redacted] for a delivery address.

WE ARE NOWING ADDING AN AMAZON WISH LIST IF YOU WOULD LIKE TO HELP IN THAT WAY.

https://www.amazon.com/hz/wishlist/ls/1G76NCF3T41FZ?ref_=wl_share

Even as she works to rebuild her own life, Gretchen is already thinking of others in her community who need help. That’s who she is. That’s who she’s always been.

Let’s come together to support someone who has done so much for so many of us. Gretchen is a shining example of resilience and what’s possible for single moms who never give up, but right now, she needs us to lift her up.

From the bottom of our hearts, thank you for anything you can do to help. We are truly truly grateful.

With gratitude,

Ingrid Vanderveldt & Pam Pike