When everyone else leaves, recovery is just beginning.

Rebuilding Spokane

Our names are Mike and Madison DeHaan and our home burned during the Old Trails Fire in Spokane on August 1st, 2026. 

Alongside thousands of others, we're beginning what will likely be a years+ long journey of rebuilding.

In the days and weeks after a disaster, our community shows up in incredible ways. First responders, volunteers, insurance companies, businesses, and neighbors all play an essential role in helping families survive the immediate crisis.

But as the headlines fade and many return to their normal lives, the victims of these kinds of disasters slowly start to feel forgotten.

Insurance helps replace homes, vehicles, temporary housing, food, and other necessities. What it often can't replace are the things that help people feel like themselves again.

Things like children's bikes/toys.

Art Supplies

Camping Gear and Sports Equipment.

Musical instruments.

A family game night.

All of the items that are the heart and soul of being human beings by allowing us to experience joy and daily comfort are essential for experiencing a sense of normalcy during times of incredible difficulty. 

That's why we're creating this non profit (Name still TBD).

Our mission is to provide Normal Again Grants—small grants that help individuals and families reclaim the parts of everyday life that make us human. These grants aren't about rebuilding houses. They're about rebuilding lives.

While our inspiration comes from being directly impacted by the August 1, 2026 Spokane-area fires, our vision is much bigger. We hope to build a lasting foundation that supports long-term recovery for individuals and families affected by future disasters and community crises throughout the Inland Northwest.

Mike is a local business owner, and Madison is a local artist. Our initial fundraising efforts will focus on community art events, artist markets, artwork created by Madison, local partnerships, and the generosity of people who believe that recovery doesn't end when the emergency does.

We're currently forming the nonprofit, assembling our board, and working through the legal process with Washington State. Our goal is to officially launch by the end of August.

If this mission resonates with you, we'd love to have you join us from the very beginning.

By subscribing below, you'll receive updates on our progress, opportunities to get involved, upcoming events, and our official launch.

Thank you for believing that everyone deserves the chance to feel normal again.

If you're interested in participating as a member of the non profit, please email Mike at mdehaan51@gmail.com.

Subscribe below to stay in the loop about our upcoming non profit targeting an end of August 2026 launch.