January 2026

The Power of History in Pasadena Village

By Richard Myers
Posted: 09/13/2025

The Importance of Preserving a History in Volunteer Organizations

It has occurred to me that Pasadena Village needs to have a fuller history available. While we do have a history on our website, it is essentially only the opening chapter. That history tells the story of neighbors who, already friends, wanted to maintain their connections as they grew older. It recalls the discovery of the Beacon Hill example, the securing of a founding grant, and the eventual opening of Pasadena Village as an organization. It also describes how the Village evolved over time, as members began to recognize the increasing need for mutual support. The account touches briefly on further growth—our expansion into a larger community presence and our deeper involvement in state and national organizations. Yet, much of the Village’s journey remains untold.

A more thorough history is not a luxury; it is a necessity. Documenting the past in a careful, intentional way accomplishes several vital things for a volunteer organization.

First, a history preserves identity and values. It captures why the organization was created, who the founders were, what problems they sought to solve, and what values shaped its mission. For Pasadena Village, this means recording the voices of those early neighbors who dreamed of a supportive network that would allow them to thrive as they aged. Understanding those roots helps members today see the deeper purpose behind our work and reminds us of what originally inspired the effort.

Second, history provides continuity. Volunteer organizations often experience frequent turnover in leadership and membership. Without a clear record, valuable lessons are lost with each transition. A well-documented history prevents that loss. It carries forward what we have learned—both successes and mistakes—and ensures that new leaders are not forced to “reinvent the wheel” every few years. This continuity is what allows the Village to grow stronger with each generation of volunteers rather than starting anew.

Third, history builds pride and belonging. Members see themselves as part of something larger and longer-lasting. When we can point to the challenges our Village has overcome and the milestones we have achieved, it instills a sense of loyalty. People are more motivated to give their time and energy when they understand they are adding to a legacy, not just filling a temporary role.

Fourth, a record of the past strengthens decision-making. Every choice we make today is made in a context shaped by earlier choices. By understanding how previous leaders approached similar challenges, current leaders gain perspective. For example, knowing how the Village adjusted when its founding grant expired can guide us when we face new financial uncertainties. The past does not dictate the future, but it can provide a wise framework for navigating it.

Fifth, a thorough history enhances credibility. Funders, partners, and the wider community look for signs of stability and accountability. A documented story demonstrates that the Village is not a fleeting experiment but a tested institution with a clear track record. This credibility matters when seeking grants, partnerships, or community recognition.

Finally, history inspires a future vision. By showing how the Village has grown and adapted over time, we provide a roadmap for continuing impact. It reminds us that we are not static; we are capable of resilience and innovation. That story gives us confidence that we can face whatever comes next.

For Pasadena Village, there are many chapters still waiting to be written. We need to tell the story of our early years more fully: the establishment of a formal structure with a board, committees, and interest groups. We need to remember the crisis that came when our founding grant and ongoing support expired—and how, in response, we reshaped ourselves with a new executive director, a strategic plan, and structural changes. Then came the pandemic. Like countless organizations, we scrambled to adapt, discovering Zoom and learning how to maintain our bonds despite physical distance.

And then came the Eaton Fire. It struck as a sudden shock, yet the Village responded with extraordinary effectiveness. Our ability to mobilize and provide relief to the community was recognized widely, resulting in significant donor support. That moment, too, is a crucial part of our identity—proof that the Village is not just a social club but a resilient community asset.

The question is not whether these stories matter—they clearly do—but whether we will take the time to capture them. A thorough history of Pasadena Village would honor those who made it happen, from founders to present-day leaders. More importantly, it would give current and future members a foundation on which to stand, a legacy to inherit, and a vision to carry forward.

How all this happened, and who made it happen, is the story that needs to be told.