Shannon Larsuel ’13: A Light in the Darkness

The spirit of generosity in our Mayfield community can be transformative. Our motto, Actions not Words, can be a light in the darkness, a beacon to turn a reaction into a response. For Nicole Wirth, Dean of Academic Life and Mayfield alum Shannon Larsuel '13, helping others came naturally in the aftermath of the devastating Eaton Fire. Nicole, her husband, and their three dogs evacuated that Tuesday night, worried most about the wind, only to return the next day to find their home completely gone. Shannon and her family were spared any damage; however, the haste and chaos of their 3:00 am evacuation and prolonged displacement have had lasting effects. Shannon's tight-knit neighborhood suffered partial losses, many staying on their street that night to fight the flames. With their worlds turned upside down, and the community and neighborhoods they loved met with tragedy and uncertainty, Nicole and Shannon decided to act, sharing their time, compassion, and tenacity by becoming Neighborhood Captains.

The role of Neighborhood Captains was established for Eaton Fire-affected areas by the organization Altagether. Altagether is a group of organizers and residents that brings people together to connect and support a collective recovery. Shannon explained she came across the organization through Instagram. "I knew I could take on some of the organizing work, so I told them, whatever you need me to do. I not only became a Neighborhood Captain, but now I also help run their social media. I immediately felt this was something I could do that would benefit my community and my neighborhood. And that was important to me because I've grown up here. It's the only place I've ever lived, except when I went to college. And I felt really tied to helping us rebuild."

Navigating insurance and the remediation process has been particularly challenging for those affected, especially as people are all in different situations and circumstances. Nicole and Shannon help get questions answered, share resources, or just check in. As an educator, Nicole was instinctive in sharing her leadership skills and encouraging nature with others, even as she coped with her own recovery. "It is nice to connect with people and then to also make sure they have what they need for their next step," Nicole explained. "My co-captain and I will knock on doors, checking in with our neighbors to see what they may need or if they have completed forms such as their Right of Entry (ROE) form before the deadline. We also held a small potluck to bring people together."

Both Nicole and Shannon have learned so much about how the system works, insurance intricacies, what different agencies and departments manage, and even how the outcomes of one disaster change laws for the good of the next. Connecting with people who share their experience and appreciate their help has been impactful. Shannon has described her feelings as "renewed hope" and has considered pursuing community work full time. Nicole is starting the rebuilding process and will have much to share as that progresses. Nicole and Shannon know a long road lies ahead; however, sharing their time and knowledge will help lighten the load for all.