In a time of uncertainty, internet connectivity and electrical power have become imperative to our way of life, including to our work, education, and connection with loved ones. Yet the wildfires in Oregon along the Cascade Mountain range have left communities, neighborhoods, and schools utterly destroyed. Thankfully, community volunteers and businesses like Ball Janik LLP, Elevate Technology Group, Takoda’s Restaurant, CONNX, Emerald Broadband, BendBroadband and IOIOBox have come together to help the community.

“When a catastrophic event like this takes place, response and recovery has to evolve quickly,” explains Damien Hall, who has helped with things like contract reviews, risk mitigation, communication legalities, workers comp and liabilities arising from this volunteer effort. “Being able to adapt and change plans is critical and it must be done safely.”

“I grew up close by and when the request came from the community, we jumped on it and expanded upon it,” said Geoff Turner. “I’ve never dealt with anything like this before. It’s one thing to see it on TV but until you see it and experience it like we have, I don’t think you will ever know what it’s like.”

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