January 2026

Message from Our President: Keeping Pasadena Village Strong Together

April is Volunteer Appreciation Month, and this is the perfect time to celebrate the incredible contributions of our volunteers—each of you who make Pasadena Village the thriving, supportive community that it is. Pasadena Village is not just an organization; it is a network of engaged, caring individuals who come together to enrich each other’s lives. What makes our Village unique is that we are volunteer-driven and volunteer-run. That means that the work of keeping our community strong is done by you—our Villagers—who dedicate time, energy, and passion to making this Village a success.

Of course, we are fortunate to have an excellent staff who provide essential administrative support and leadership, ensuring smooth operations. But the heart of Pasadena Village is its volunteers. Whether you are offering support services to other Villagers, participating in or leading a special interest group, serving on a team, joining a committee, or stepping up to lead at an even higher level, your efforts are what keep the Village moving forward. Many of our Board Directors, who guide the future of Pasadena Village, started out as volunteers just like you. Their journey began with small contributions - helping with an event, organizing a group, or lending a hand to a fellow Villager. Over time, those small acts of service grew into leadership roles, and they continue to give back in ways that strengthen our entire community.

But to keep our Village strong, we need to continue inspiring others to step up. The best way to do that? Simply ask. Volunteering starts with an invitation. When you talk to a friend in the Village, think about what they enjoy, what experiences they bring, and what they might be interested in. Could they help with an event? Support a project you’re involved in? Join a committee where their skills would be valuable? Sometimes people don’t volunteer simply because they haven’t been asked or don’t realize how much they can contribute. A personal invitation can be all it takes to spark their involvement.

If you’re already part of a team, think about ways someone else could help lighten the load. If you’re organizing an event or participating in a committee, invite a fellow Villager to join you. You might be surprised by how willing people are to lend a hand when given the opportunity. More importantly, when you ask someone to get involved, you’re not just helping the Village—you’re giving them a chance to engage, connect, and feel the deep sense of purpose that comes with being part of something meaningful. Volunteering isn’t just about service; it’s about belonging.

This is what Pasadena Village is all about—building together, supporting each other, and ensuring that everyone has the opportunity to contribute in a way that feels meaningful to them. So, as we celebrate Volunteer Appreciation Month, let’s also commit to growing our Village by reaching out, inviting others in, and recognizing the power of community.

Thank you for everything you do to keep Pasadena Village strong. Your time, effort, and dedication make all the difference. Let’s continue building our Village - together.

With gratitude,
Dick Myers
Board President, Pasadena Village