Alta Heritage Foundation, a charitable non-profit organization, seeks volunteers to assist in providing recovery of previously cremated human remains (cremains) to survivors of wildfires.

The Alta Heritage Foundation has worked 20 disasters and almost 500 recoveries on the West Coast. They are organizing a response to the devastating Spokane fires. Part of this involves building out their roster of archaeology volunteers in Washington and northern Oregon. As a volunteer, you will make lasting contributions to the recovery effort for those impacted by wildfires.

They are looking to reconnect with volunteers who served the communities of Detroit, Phoenix, Ashland, and surrounding areas during the destructive fires of 2020. If you assisted in these volunteer efforts please consider volunteering again.

If you have not previously volunteered, they still want to hear from you! 

All prospective volunteers (previous and new) please fill out this form. 

They are anticipating their volunteer work in Spokane to occur before the end of the calendar year, but the specific dates have not yet been determined. Filling out the form does not obligate you to volunteer. Once they have dates, AHF will reach out to prospective volunteers to confirm availability.

Volunteers are provided with training and work in teams partnered with a trained K9 and its handler. The AHF provides most PPE. A list of equipment and recommended gear will be sent out ahead of any deployment. 

From the AHF website: "In the aftermath of devastating wildfires, the Alta Heritage Foundation provides a unique and compassionate service: the recovery of cremated human remains from homes and structures destroyed by fire. For many families, these remains represent a profound and irreplaceable connection to their loved ones—and recovering them is a vital step in the healing process. AHF deploys specialized teams consisting of forensic archaeologists and human detection dogs to search through the ashes and debris left behind carefully. These canine units are specifically trained to detect the presence of cremated remains, even under the most challenging conditions. Working alongside experienced archaeologists, they ensure that recoveries are conducted with the highest level of care, dignity, and respect.

AHF exclusively offers this deeply restorative service, often bringing families peace and closure amid overwhelming loss. Many wildfire survivors have shared that this support was the most meaningful part of their recovery journey, allowing them to reclaim a sacred piece of their history and begin rebuilding their lives.

AHF has received widespread recognition for its innovative and compassionate efforts to support victims of wildfires. From communities across California and Oregon, our work has been acknowledged by media, humanitarian organizations, and emergency response networks. Our approach—blending forensic science, cultural sensitivity, and emotional healing—has set a new standard in post-disaster recovery. Whether it’s recovering cremated remains, preserving family legacies, or helping communities rebuild with dignity, AHF’s mission continues to resonate across borders. This recognition reflects not just the uniqueness of our services, but the profound impact they have on the lives of those we serve.

AHF is honored to offer this free service, helping families heal while preserving the dignity and memory of those lost."