It's been nearly one year since I suffered the devastating loss of my home in Altadena during the Eaton Fire in January. The above photo was taken in my yard just a few months prior as part of our SEASON 10 celebration, Fête10. It is one of the last gatherings held at my home before it was completely destroyed. I have been experiencing such a range of emotions in the last 10 months, but the overwhelming feeling that continues to resonate is that of utter gratitude.
If you don't know me, I'm Becca, and I'm raising funds to help rebuild my home in Altadena, which I bought in 2021. My home was a respite for me and a source of community and art making for the Los Angeles dance community via my company Acts of Matter. This loss has been immeasurable, but the support I've received has made it possible to imagine a vibrant future again.
So many of you have continued to reach out, offered to help me with housing, been understanding when Kit comes with me to a myriad of inappropriate places, asked me what I need and how I am, put in writing something about what our relationship has meant to you. You've shared your support through financial contributions big and small, held me tight, let me cry, said no need to respond…
This support has tethered me and given me footing to push forward with what once felt like an insurmountable challenge of starting to rebuild--literally and figuratively.
I am so excited to announce that after a furious effort with my team WE GOT OUR BUILDING PERMIT THIS WEEK! IT IS REALLY HAPPENING! With the anniversary of the company and my birthday both being this week, I'm accepting this as a beautiful birthday gift (thank you Universe!). We hope to break ground in the next couple weeks.
This is both exciting and terrifying, as now the real financial burden begins. Although my insurance has not been the nightmare I hear about for so many, my house was valued at HALF the cost it will take to rebuild it — meaning I have to find a way to cover the other half, in addition to the mortgage I’m still paying on the destroyed house. And that's just the structure. I will also eventually need things INSIDE the house as well...like a bed? Silverware? Thank you to everyone who has supplied me with temporary items!!!
SO, as we mark the start of the 12th season of Acts of Matter, rather than fundraising for the company this year, I have decided to return to GoFundMe in the event that anyone would like to contribute (again?) to this rebuilding effort. The initial amount raised has been put in an interest-bearing account and will be (is already being) applied directly to the rebuild. Anything else raised will help cover the gap between what my insurance will cover, and what it will actually cost to complete my home. Thank you, in advance, for the support and security this offers.
I am very humbled to be here. I certainly don't expect anything, but I appreciate everything — big or small. I can't wait to invite you all back to Altadena to celebrate the company in this new space — one that I hope will be a center of community, care, joy, laughter, and art.
If you would like to donate or share, I would be endlessly appreciative. This continues to be a long road, but I now see a light at the end. I know there is a brighter future for this incredible community as we commit to revitalizing, nurturing, and rebuilding. Thank you for everything.
If you’re interested in hearing more about Acts of Matter and what we have planned for this year, check us out here: www.actsofmatter.com
We are paring back to allow me to focus on this rebuild, but I can’t wait to be in the studio for the various workshops we have planned.
Continued gratitude to everyone who supported (and created) the first round of fundraising. You can check out the original GoFundMe here.
Thank you for everything,
Becca


