The one-year anniversary of the wildfire just passed and Nancy remains in the recovery process of rebuilding her home. She enjoys cooking (and misses a “real” kitchen) and likes to catch an episode of Heartland.

“As a survivor it gives me hope and hope for the community to move forward.” When she is not working on process improvement or streamlining systems for the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund, Nancy spends time with her horses and baby cows. Through her position as Data Manager, Nancy wants to remain connected and support the community as the rebuild continues. Nancy came to a spot in her recovery that she was ready to begin employment on AugNancy was hired as the Santiam Canyon Wildfire Relief Fund Data Manager. “I was hoping to reinvent myself and my career,” Nancy said. She was ready for a change professionally. Before the fire, Nancy had a successful career in marketing and communications that spanned 30 years. While volunteering she heard of a job opportunity with Santiam Service Integration, but she was not ready due to the emotions of the wildfire. As a survivor, Nancy wanted to contribute to the community and help other survivors in need. The Hall served as a distribution site that housed various wildfire survivor needs including food, clothing, and household items. Two months after the fire Nancy started to volunteer at Anthony Hall.

Enjoying the scenery was her release her peaceful time. Being able to see the horses in the pasture next to the house in the mornings, feed them, work with them, and ride. Her greatest joy came from relaxing on her property, taking in the views with her partner, and spending time with her animals (horses/cattle/dogs/cats). Nancy’s home was not only her shelter, but also her sanctuary. Nancy and her partner lost his four generation 100+ year-old home along with two barns, farming equipment, and nearly 100 acres of timber. It is temporarily muted,” recounts Nancy Jankowski.

Home of the free because of the brave c