Months after the Marshall fire of Dec. 30, 2021, thousands of stunned survivors continue to sort through the aftermath. The fire, pushed eastward by 100-mph winds from where it was sparked that morning south of Boulder, burned across 6,000 acres that afternoon and evening, destroying as many as 1,000 homes and businesses in Superior and Louisville. As tragic as the events of that day were, residents also witnessed the best of human compassion as communities rallied to serve their own. We recently caught up with Broomfield native Emily Crouse-Joo, Community Engagement Specialist at Broomfield FISH, who found herself at the center of that day’s historic community response.
Can you tell us a bit about Broomfield FISH?
We’re a food bank and Family Resource Center. We’ve been in operation since 1963 when my grandmother, Anne Crouse, and five of her friends came together to create an organization that would meet our Broomfield neighbors’ basic human needs and provide our most disadvantaged neighbors with the hope and tools to rise out of poverty. Currently, FISH serves residents in Broomfield County living at or below 200% of the federal poverty level, offering food, emergency financial assistance, referral services to more than 30 partner organizations, and strengths-based, whole family development pathways.
What does the acronym “FISH” stand for?
Fellowship in Serving Humanity.
What was your experience on Dec. 30?
Many folks gathered at Anne Crouse Park to keep an eye on the fires. The park is named after my grandmother, one of the founders of Broomfield FISH. Thinking of her and what she would have done, I knew I couldn’t just stand by and do nothing. So that evening I went to the 1STBANK Center, which I knew was a rally point for emergency support because FISH is a member of Broomfield VOAD [Voluntary Organizations Active in Disaster], a network of community organizations and leaders that cooperate in times of disaster. At the 1STBANK Center, I had the opportunity to receive people who had literally left their houses and walked to us while their neighborhood was still burning. Along with other volunteers, I helped get many of those displaced people and families into hotels and shelters in the area.
Is there a story from that night that stands out?
Her name was Grace. I have no idea how she made it to the 1STBANK Center, but she rolled to me in wheelchair, had MS [Multiple Sclerosis], and had just lost everything except her cat who was there with her in a pet carrier. Despite everything that had happened, she was still smiling and super sweet. She said, “Things just happen in life, and it’s okay.” I couldn’t believe what a positive attitude she still had. I got her a hotel voucher and sent her away with Chick-Fil-A, McDonalds, and pizza. I gave her a hug and wished her well. It felt like we were friends.
What’s your biggest lesson learned from that night?
Ask first what people need and then respond to those needs. It’s important not to assume what the biggest need is—ask, listen, and then act.