About us

Topanga has always protected its own.

In 1925, long before fire roads or helicopters, the original Topanga Volunteer Fire and Forestry Department was born from necessity. With little more than shovels, canvas hoses, and unwavering resolve, a small group of canyon residents formed a grassroots brigade to defend their homes and hillsides from the ever-present threat of wildfire.

For decades, these local heroes stood as Topanga’s first line of defense. Their efforts eventually led to the establishment of what we now know as L.A. County Fire Station 69, the professional department that serves our canyon today.

A Legacy Reignited

A century later, the wildfire threat has grown—but so has our resolve. In 2025, we revived the Topanga Fire and Forestry name in homage to that original spirit of community protection and self-reliance.

We are not a replacement for County Fire, but a complement to their efforts—a dedicated volunteer organization focused on wildfire education, fuel mitigation, and preparedness in the Wildland Urban Interface we call home.

“The name is more than a nod to history. It’s a promise—to stand ready, together, just as Topangans always have.”

Our organization was established in 2025 by neighbors who understand the unique challenges of living in the Wildland Urban Interface (WUI) and who believe in the power of local action.

• Co-Chair – Craig Irwin 
• Co-Chair – Kimberly Callaway
• Treasurer – Tyler Honaker
• Secretary – William Alford
• Director of Training & Operations – Neil Summer
   

Together, they guide the vision, governance, and early operations of Topanga Volunteer Fire and Forestry Department.

 Our mission is grounded in four key pillars:

1. Preparedness Education – Empowering residents with knowledge and tools. 
2. Wildland Fire Training – Equipping volunteers to safely support wildfire response.
3. Fuel Management – Proactive vegetation clearance and home hardening support.
4. Emergency Readiness – Supporting evacuation plans, alert systems, and local coordination.
    

Topanga Volunteer Fire & Forestry Department was founded in 1995 by a group of community members who recognized the need for a local organization dedicated to helping homeless individuals. Since then, we have grown into a thriving nonprofit, serving hundreds of individuals each year.