AFTER THE FIRES

I’m honored to share the PBS Weathered special “After the LA Fires” in part because it touches on one of my favorite subjects: Mulch. This documentary is about more than mulch though. It is being released on the one-year anniversary of the devastating LA wildfires in Palisades and Altadena. It thoughtfully explores what caused these fires and empowers us to take simple actions, like removing mulch from the first five feet of our homes, to prevent future disasters and make our communities more resilient.  Please join me in helping share this important message by watching and sharing the documentary co-produced by Ralph Bloemers, featuring Keegan Gibbs, and our very own Pete Walther. And if you’d like to hear more from myself, Pete, Keegan, Ralph or others on the topic of resiliency, check out our on-demand Risk and Resiliency Symposium.  https://lnkd.in/gDSPDDbm

LaCharles James

**LaCharles “LC” James**

President & Founder, Herald Fire Prevention Council

LaCharles “LC” James is a visionary community leader dedicated to wildfire resilience and rural advocacy. As President and Founder of the Herald Fire Prevention Council, LC has built campaigns that empower neighbors, strengthen defensible space, and connect volunteers with practical tools for home hardening and community safety.

His journey blends decades of public service and global outreach: from serving as a Supervising Deputy Probation Officer in Los Angeles County to volunteering with the Peace Corps in Liberia, where he taught and mentored students who continue to carry forward his lessons today. LC’s leadership is rooted in authenticity, collaboration, and the quiet heroism of everyday people working together to protect their communities.

Through initiatives like the Golden Paradox Challenge, LC champions innovative, transparent systems that engage donors, restaurants, and volunteers in wildfire prevention. His work is not only about reducing risk—it’s about building legacy, documenting stories, and ensuring rural voices are heard in statewide resilience planning.

LC lives and works in Herald, California, where his commitment to community, family, and inclusive outreach continues to inspire new partnerships and long-term impact.

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