January 2026

Organizer Training Empowers Villagers to Lead the Way

By Jim Hendrick
Posted: 08/26/2025

On the afternoon of Thursday, July 17, Pasadena Village launched a dynamic and empowering Organizer Training to show Villagers how they can create and coordinate the kinds of activities they would like to see on the Village calendar. Whether your interest is poetry, decluttering, walking groups, or music appreciation, the message was clear: if you can dream it, we’ll help you make it happen.

“Welcome and thank you for attending our Organizer Training session! We’re so grateful for the many ways you contribute to the Village with your time, energy, and talents,” said Nathan Wolford, Pasadena Village’s Volunteer Coordinator. With that heartfelt greeting, Nathan set the tone for a training session designed to demystify the organizing process and offer clear, practical tools for bringing new gatherings to life.

Nathan walked attendees through the Organizer Guidelines, emphasizing that no one has to go it alone. “We’ll be there every step of the way with support from Village staff and experienced organizers,” he assured us.

To illustrate how Villagers are already leading successful groups, three seasoned organizers shared personal stories and tips:

Bruce Christensen, who coordinates the Men’s Time gathering, offered this insight: “I send short reminders the day before because many of us have trouble keeping up with non-emergency appointments.” His thoughtful nudge is one of the small but impactful ways organizers help keep the Village community connected.

Jane Hufnagel, a familiar name to those who enjoy hikes, walks, and cultural outings, spoke about the joy she finds in organizing. “Organizing trips and hikes is just fun for me. I’m really an introvert, but I do this because the people are so much fun.” Jane also serves on the Cultural Activities Team (CATS), and her enthusiasm is contagious.

Patrick Mathews, who leads the new Music Appreciation Group, shared what inspired him to take the leap into organizing: “I’ve studied music for a long time and thought others might want to learn along with me. Paula Rao generously offered her home for us to meet. Each session we’re fortunate to listen to music through excellent speakers.” Patrick’s group is a great example of how a personal passion can become a shared experience.

Guidelines and Support

The Organizer Guidelines provide a roadmap for creating and sustaining a group. Some key points include:

Start with an idea. Reach out to the Volunteer Coordinator (Nathan) for help finding others who may share your interest.

Work with staff. They’ll help draft your message, find meeting times that avoid conflicts, and spread the word.

Plan for inclusivity. Consider accessibility, parking, and restroom access when selecting meeting locations.

Communicate regularly. Email reminders, schedule changes, and updates should always copy info@pasadenavillage.org.

Empower others. Ask for help with refreshments, technology, or leadership roles—organizing is a team effort.

Keep your group welcoming. Review Pasadena Village’s Mission, Vision, and Values to help set a positive tone.

Get on the calendar. Submit information to the Communication Coordinator (Hannah Rough-Schock) by the 23rd of each month for the following month’s events.

Meetings can take place anywhere—from the Village office or Zoom, to homes, parks, or coffee shops. Some groups rotate locations or leadership; others stick with a consistent format. There’s no one-size-fits-all approach—just find what works best for your group.

Once your group is up and running, the Village staff is there to help with logistics, promotion, and encouragement. Hannah can add your event to the Monthly Calendar, highlight it in Your Week, and even send out special emails if needed.

Villager Reactions

Villagers who attended the training left inspired and energized.

Paula Rao called it “the most extensive training I’ve ever seen for Villagers to get involved.”

Barbara Madden added, “The training is great, but I wish more people who have never been organizers had been in attendance. Maybe we can do this training again.”

Jeanne Brown shared, “I think this is excellent training that can get anyone started.”

The feedback of these individuals reflects the spirit of Pasadena Village: people coming together, stepping up, and making community happen.

A Calendar Powered by You

The Village’s calendar is rich with engaging, meaningful gatherings because Villagers like you take the initiative to make them happen. From coffee meetups to film discussions, from walking groups to watercolor sessions—the events on our calendar are a direct reflection of your creativity and care.

Whether you’re a natural-born leader or a quiet contributor with a great idea, the Village is here to support you in building community. Organizing a group isn’t about doing it all yourself—it’s about bringing people together around something you love and letting the Village help with the rest.

So what’s your idea? Reach out to Nathan at nathan@pasadenavillage.org to get started. We can’t wait to see what you come up with.

Pasadena Village: Where neighbors become friends—and friends become organizers.