Our Story

The Derrough Foundation started after we lost our home in Menlo Park to a fire in April 2021. It was one of those moments that completely changes your life. We didn’t just lose our home and belongings — we had to figure out how to put the pieces back together, and that part turned out to be even harder.

We were shocked by how few resources there were for fire victims. The recovery process felt lonely, confusing, and overwhelming at every turn. No one hands you a guidebook for how to move forward after something like that.

That’s why we created this foundation. We don’t want other families to feel as lost as we did. Our mission is simple: to support fire victims, provide the kind of help we wish we had, and partner with other nonprofits across California doing important work in fire recovery and education.

About Us

Alexander Derrough

Co-Founder

Alexander is a senior at Menlo-Atherton High School. Alexander is a part of the varsity tennis team and co-runs 2 climate change clubs at school. He oversees the partnerships, fundraising, and planning of all events.

Katherine Derrough

Co-Founder

Katherine (Katie) graduated from the University of Michigan, Ross School of Business with a BBA and works full-time in New York City. She handles all of the back office filings, applications, and finances.