Team Rubicon supports wildfire recovery efforts in Bonsall

BONSALL – Volunteers with Team Rubicon, a veteran-led disaster response organization, supported residents of northern San Diego County following the Lilac fire that spread across the region, Dec. 7-11.

Team Rubicon worked with San Diego County officials and fire response teams to identify sites in the Bonsall area that sustained substantial damage from the Lilac fire. Beginning Dec. 14, Team Rubicon provided sifting, sorting and debris removal services at no cost to affected communities, in coordination with local and state authorities.

"Members of Team Rubicon are built to serve. We're here in San Diego to support the recovery process in the wake of these devastating fires," Robert Pagnelli, Team Rubicon's incident commander for the operation, said. "We're humbled and eager to have an opportunity to help this community."

A team of 22 volunteers worked at Rancho Monserate Country Club from Dec. 14 to Dec. 17 for a total of 696 hours and an estimated savings of $20,100 in labor costs. A team of 53 volunteers returned to continue the work Dec. 20 through Jan. 2 for a total of 1068 hours and an estimated savings of $30,800 in labor costs.

Through a strong communications infrastructure supported by cutting-edge technological solutions, Team Rubicon volunteers efficiently and effectively respond to natural disasters and help stricken families get back into their homes as soon as possible. Beyond disaster relief, Team Rubicon helps veterans find a renewed sense of purpose, which is vital as veterans return to civilian life after their time in the military.

U.S. Marine Corps veterans Jake Wood and William McNulty founded the nonprofit in 2010 following the massive Haiti earthquake. It has grown from eight volunteers to over 70,000 volunteers, with 225 operations under its belt.