From Russ Anderson, the president and CEO of Briggs Freeman Sotheby's International Realty:

 

Our hearts are absolutely broken.

The extreme rains in Kerr County, Texas, over the July 4 weekend took the lives of some of our North Texas neighbors — mostly young, vibrant, big-hearted girls who were daughters, sisters, aunts and besties.

In memory of the smart, funny, gregarious souls who had come to Camp Mystic for a summer of adventure and learning, green bows are tied all over the place here — to trees, railings, lampposts, you name it. It is a surreal yet comforting sight — a signal that we’re all grieving, together. I hope the parents, families and friends of those unforgettable girls feel even a bit of that comfort, tied into every beautiful bow.

To help with recovery, cleanup and remembering those who were lost, below we have gathered a list of resources, organizations and memorial foundations and funds that could benefit from your generosity immediately — and for the long, hard road ahead.

Our focus is also on the safety and well-being of our Sotheby’s International Realty colleagues in the area. Some of them may be facing significant challenges — and some may still be awaiting news about friends and loved ones. Others are actively supporting their communities through donations and cleanup efforts, truly moving with heart.

If you choose to help, remember that community support comes in many forms. Natural disasters can take an emotional toll, even on those not directly impacted. Whether you’re feeling anxious, overwhelmed or simply processing the news, your well-being matters. Let’s continue to show up for one another with empathy and support.

From each and every one of us at Briggs Freeman Sotheby’s International Realty, thank you for what you can do.

 

IN MEMORIAM: NORTH TEXANS LOST, WITH LINKS TO FUNDS, FOUNDATIONS AND DONATIONS:

 

In memory of Lila Bonner

 

In memory of Eloise ‘Lulu’ Peck

 

In memory of Virginia Wynne Naylor

 

In memory of sisters Hanna Lawrence and Rebecca Lawrence

 

In memory of Hadley Hanna

 

In memory of sisters Blair Harber and Brooke Harber and their grandparents Charlene Harber and Mike Harber

 

In memory of Janie Hunt

 

HOW YOU CAN HELP:

 

American Red Cross

 

The Salvation Army

 

COMMUNITY ORGANIZATIONS IN TEXAS ACCEPTING DONATIONS AND PROVIDING IMMEDIATE RELIEF:

 

Community Foundation of the Texas Hill Country

 

San Angelo Area Foundation

 

Texas Search and Rescue Flood Relief

 

Spirit of Giving Fund

 

MORE INFORMATION AND RESOURCES:

 

D Magazine guide to resources

 

The Scout Guide’s list of resources