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January 2026

Triumph Over Tragedy

Our very own Volunteer Coordinator at Pasadena Village, Nathan Wolford, was honored with the Robert Gorski Award presented to him at a City Council meeting at Pasadena’s City Hall on July 20, 2026. There were Villagers and friends in attendance. While the presentation was short, the award represents many hours of selfless volunteerism on Nathan’s part.

Nathan’s award presentation was covered well by local newspapers; however, I wanted to give a more personal and Village-related perspective. His presence at the Village is a gift to all of us and, while he is still young, he is living the spirit of the Village. His challenges have translated into gifts for others who have lost a limb. 

The man for whom this award is named was a longtime friend of Villager, Suzi Hoge. She told me of his work with the City of Pasadena and beyond. She worked with and knew Robert Gorski very well. He was a pioneer in the City of Pasadena to make it accessible for all people with disabilities. While an employee of the City, he was also involved in national protests on behalf of those with disabilities. His work and his reputation within the City of Pasadena was stellar. His ability to reach out to individuals as well as organizations was uniquely successful.

After Robert Gorski passed away in 2020, the City held a memorial for him in the courtyard of the City Hall. The turnout was overwhelming. The many people who spoke about him gave a much broader picture of the man and his work. It was after this memorial service that the City of Pasadena decided to create an award for those who carry on Gorski’s work.

Villager Janie Heinrich has an appointed position on the City’s Accessibility Commission. Knowing Nathan through his work with Pasadena Village and her own involvement in the Accessibility Team at the Village, she was the one who nominated Nathan.

Nathan’s volunteer work as an Amputee Mentor with Limb Kind in Zambia and Ethiopia brought him close to children needing limbs and their families. He has found this pursuit deeply rewarding and hopes to be in Sri Lanka next year with this organization.

Nathan has also worked at Camp No Limits, a summer camp for children with disabilities. These volunteer opportunities took him to Texas and Connecticut. He has recently learned there is one in Big Bear. He is hoping to work there as well.

In the meantime, Nathan works with Hanger Clinic, a prosthetic clinic as a Peer Visitor. He meets with recent amputees and those preparing for an amputation. At one of these sessions he met with a husband and wife. For that meeting, Nathan’s wife joined in the meeting. This work keeps him closer to home in Pasadena and Los Angeles.

Some of the Villagers who attended the presentation of the Robert Gorski Award had wonderful things to say about being there:

Toni Cavanagh-Johnson:

“I was honored to be present when Nathan received this distinguished award. Nathan is a powerful example of overcoming tragedy and moving forward as a person with a disability.”

Valerie Jones shared what went through her mind as Nathan was being presented with his award:. 

"We are very lucky to have someone like Nathan who demonstrates such exceptional work service with a compassionate heart. Nathan truly deserves this.”

Linda Simmons:

“It was a pleasure and a joy to see Nathan receive his well-deserved award presented by the City Council. He was honored for his distinctive service on behalf of those dealing with physical disabilities not only in our city but also through his overseas work and support on behalf of people dealing with issues similar to his. We are blessed and honored to have Nathan working among us at Pasadena Village. May his kind and joyful spirit be with us for many years to come.”

Bridget Brewster remarked:

“It was so nice to watch Nathan receive this well-deserved recognition. It was made even more special when Mayor Gordo acknowledged Nathan and spoke so highly of the man for whom the award is named. It was a very touching moment for everyone.“

Robert Gorski would most certainly find a kindred spirit in Nathan. Indeed, Pasadena Village is filled with many extraordinary people, both Villagers and staff. Our lives are enriched by each other’s presence.