Tahoe’s public lands are cared for by a dedicated community of federal employees — the rangers, firefighters, scientists, recreation staff, and maintenance crews who protect the lake, forests, and trails we all love.

But during a government shutdown, many of these workers are suddenly furloughed or required to work without pay. The reality is that these are our neighbors — people raising families, paying rent, and living right here in our Tahoe Basin communities.

As a local community advocate who strives to foster support for our fellow land stewards, this grassroots, community-led fund was created to help cover essentials like groceries, gas, and utilities for local federal workers impacted by the shutdown.

Every dollar raised goes directly toward helping these stewards stay afloat while they wait for backpay and stability to return.

We can’t solve the shutdown, but we can show up for the people who show up for Tahoe every day — the folks who:

• Keep our trails and recreation sites open and safe

• Respond to wildfires and emergencies

• Protect Lake Tahoe’s clarity and fragile ecosystem

• Care for our forests, wildlife, and public lands year-round

• Help residents and visitors alike connect deeply to this special place and its sense of belonging

Tahoe isn’t just a landscape — it’s a living connection between people and place. Federal employees are part of that fabric, helping all of us experience, respect, and care for this incredible basin.

I’m organizing this in a personal capacity to support our local community of furloughed federal workers in the Tahoe Basin — not affiliated with or endorsed by any federal agency — it’s simply neighbors helping neighbors.

Funds will be distributed as grocery, utility, and gas gift cards to local federal employees furloughed or working without pay during the shutdown, prioritizing those with the greatest need.

If you love Tahoe and its public lands, this is one small way to give back to the people who protect and connect us to them.

With gratitude and Tahoe pride, always!