When flames tore through Coffey Park during the California Tubbs Fire in 2017, Annie Barbour’s home and community were left in ruins. Like so many survivors of catastrophic wildfires, she faced the staggering task of starting over, confronting insurance roadblocks, and navigating the painful emotional toll of sudden loss. Instead of retreating, Annie transformed her hardship into a lifelong commitment to help others find their way through the chaos of disaster recovery.
Annie became a founding member of Coffey Strong, a neighborhood recovery group that brought together hundreds of families to share resources, advocate for fair treatment, and rebuild their community. In the process, she discovered not only her own resilience but also a calling: to ensure that no survivor would have to navigate recovery alone. That commitment eventually led her to United Policyholders, where she has become a trusted voice and guide for disaster victims across the country.
Her work with United Policyholders has been both hands-on and heartfelt. From organizing survivor-to-survivor forums, to helping fire victims in Colorado and California, to traveling to Maui after the devastating blazes, Annie has stood shoulder to shoulder with people at their lowest point. She doesn’t just talk about the steps to take when confronting an insurer or rebuilding after a loss. She lives them because she has been there herself. Her empathy is rooted in experience, and her advice carries the credibility of someone who understands the sleepless nights and overwhelming challenges that survivors endure.
Annie’s story is a reminder of the extraordinary strength that can emerge from tragedy. She has taken the ashes of her personal loss and turned them into a source of light for others, proving that community and compassion can triumph over despair. Her ability to channel pain into purpose makes her a powerful teacher for anyone facing adversity, whether through wildfire, storm, or the many hardships that test us in life and work.
On this week’s episode of the Claim Game podcast (this Thursday at 6 PM ET), Annie will join us to share her insights, stories, and lessons learned from years of helping disaster survivors rebuild not just their homes, but their lives. This conversation is for everyone. Public adjusters, policyholders, insurance company adjusters, and anyone interested in learning how to stand stronger when the unthinkable happens will find something valuable to learn.
Annie’s journey reminds us that the work of recovery is not only about insurance claims and construction timelines. Instead, it is about resilience, dignity, and the power of human connection.
Thought of the Day:
“Don’t rush into things, especially major decisions. You have plenty of time.”
—Annie Barbour
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