When one first becomes a Villager, opportunities can seem overwhelming…so many choices, and with choices come decisions. It’s easy to feel lost in the weeds. Neighborhood Groups are one of the best ways to begin your Village journey.

What is a Neighborhood Group, you may be asking. This is a question with a fairly straightforward answer. Let’s start at the beginning.

Pasadena Village began with a group of neighbors who had an idea to look after each other, then it became formalized in 2012 as part of a national Village movement. As the Village grew to include others who didn’t live in the same neighborhood, the idea of creating groups identified by zip codes or geographically connected areas became a practical way to get to know one another and have a better sense of who our neighbors are.

We currently have four Neighborhood Groups that serve all our Villagers. Each group has its own way of gathering, but the one thing each has in common is ensuring that their time together is aimed at connecting with each other, taking time to learn about what’s happening in the lives of individuals, what’s of interest or concern. In other words, these groups become a kind of monthly family reunion. Several Villagers have been together for many years and are happy to welcome newcomers into the neighborhood family.

Wild West Neighborhood (West Pasadena, Los Angeles, and Glendale) meets for lunch at the Brookside Restaurant on the third Wednesday of the month at 11:00am. To help them connect with each other they’ve started a “Brag Time” after orders have been taken and before the food arrives. Anyone who wants to brag gets give a $1 donation to a "tip jar” as a bonus for our server! According to Karen Bagnard, “It’s a time for all of us to be heard and an opportunity to give a nice extra gift to a young person working to serve us.”

Easterners Neighborhood Group (East Pasadena, Sierra Madre, Monrovia, and Arcadia) meetings vary, depending on who’s hosting. This group is flexible with the location… sometimes at a local restaurant, other times in a Villager’s home. “We don’t have an agenda; we provide Villagers an opportunity to meet others in a more intimate setting for socialization,” Wayne April stated.

Foothills Neighborhood Group (Altadena and La Canada) meets the first Wednesday of the month at 10:00 am for coffee and breakfast snacks. Barbara Madden has graciously opened her home for the past several months. This group was greatly affected by the Eaton Fire and have been a vital connection for each other during this time of recovery. However, now they often discuss a specific topic or an interesting Village event. encouraging everyone to share. LuCinda Haagenson commented, “We encourage everyone to participate; it’s how we get to know each other better.”

Triple Zips Neighborhood Group (south parts of Pasadena, San Gabriel, and South Pasadena) meets on the third Wednesday of the month from 3:30-5:00, in the homes of Villagers. Light snacks and beverages are contributed by those attending. Suzi Hoge commented, “It’s a relaxed social time. People sit and chat, then informally seek out others to visit with.”

No matter where you live, there are Village neighbors waiting to welcome and include you in conversation. These casual clusters of neighbors, for many, are the pathway to lasting friendships. Often, the catalyst for a small group idea, or the chance mention of a book, a concert or piece of art will lead to a shared interest. In other words, if you’re seeking a more intimate opportunity to get to know other Villagers, Neighborhood Groups may be the best place to start your journey.

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