When Mary moved to the United States in June 2023, she thought she was finally ready for a break. After 35 years of hard work, she’d earned a little rest. But after a few weeks of downtime, something stirred in her. She missed being active. She missed helping people. So, she started reaching out to […]
Mary’s Journey From Volunteer to Vital Team Member Read More »
In the wake of the Eaton Fire, every story of loss carries weight, but it’s often the quieter ones that gently remind us of the deep importance of compassion and community. Ms. Harris is 80 years old. She lost her home to the blaze and had been staying at a motel and covering the cost
A Place to Breathe: Ms. Harris’ Story After the Fire Read More »
Fifteen years ago, Marlene’s life took an unexpected turn. She had been working in the for-profit world of real estate and mortgage lending since graduating from college. But when the 2008 recession hit, she was laid off—an event that might’ve felt like a dead end to some. For Marlene, it was an opportunity to do
From Mortgage Loans to Meaningful Work: Marlene’s Story Read More »
In the early hours of the morning, on Wednesday, January 8th, a simple yet extraordinary act of kindness unfolded during the Eaton Fire. Two clients, recently housed above Washington Boulevard through the hard work of Friends In Deed’s Street Outreach and Housing team, were awoken by an urgent knock on their door. Their landlord, a
Stories from the Fire: A Community That Cares Read More »
Lana and her husband’s story is one of connection, giving, and a heartfelt return to Pasadena. Years ago, her husband ran a podcast, donating its proceeds to different charities each month. When they moved back to Pasadena from Minneapolis, Friends In Deed stood out among the many nonprofits recommended to them. A meeting with Rabbi
Coming Full Circle: Lana’s Journey to Friends In Deed Read More »
Stacey McCarroll, Director of Eviction Prevention and Rental Assistance shares her story: I spent an afternoon with our EPRA volunteer, Emily, who lost her home in Altadena. She has been staying in a hotel in Glendale, very close to my home. I invited her to do a load of laundry (I borrowed the idea from
Stories from the Fire: Supporting One Another Through Loss Read More »
When Tish Inong joined Friends In Deed nearly three years ago, she stepped into a role that was, in her words, “a blank canvas.” Today, as the Director of Street Outreach and Housing, she has transformed that canvas into a thriving program that supports some of Pasadena’s most vulnerable residents. Tish oversees a dynamic team
From Instability to Impact: Tish’s Path to Friends In Deed Read More »
Upon retiring ten years ago, Dena was looking for a way to give back when she discovered Friends In Deed. After reaching out to several local organizations, it was Tim, the Director of the Food Pantry, who responded first. “Come on in!” he said. From the moment she stepped through the doors, Dena felt at
Spreading Smiles and Compassion: Dena’s Story Read More »
In the heart of Pasadena, Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery has become a beloved neighborhood gem. Co-owners Thomas Kalb, Executive Chef, and Vanessa Tilaka Kalb, Head Cheesemonger, have poured their passion into not only creating incredible food but also fostering a deep connection with the community they call home. Thomas’s familiarity with Friends In Deed began
Feeding the Soul: Agnes Restaurant and Cheesery’s Partnership with Friends In Deed Read More »
Don Meaders may be our newest board member – having served only since July – but his involvement with Friends In Deed goes back several years to his and his wife’s generous support of our Jazz on the Green events. He also knows our Board President Emeritus, Pam Marx, through First United Methodist Church, Pasadena
Don’s Story – Asking the Difficult Questions Read More »
