Supervisor Kathryn Barger addresses attendees. Top insert: Tara Roth, President of Goldhirsh Foundation, with grantees and stakeholders. Bottom insert: Jax Chaudhry, Executive Director of Project Invent, applauded by attendees (Photos – Diandra Jay)
Los Angeles County Supervisor Kathryn Barger joined philanthropic leaders, community organizations, and civic figures this week at the 2025 LA2050 Grantee Showcase, hosted by the Goldhirsh Foundation. The event celebrated the transformative work of local nonprofits, with a special focus on organizations making a significant impact in Altadena, Pasadena, and surrounding communities. It highlighted the crucial role these community groups play in driving positive change across the region.
By News Desk
The LA2050 Grants Challenge awarded nearly $3 million to 55 community organizations, recognizing their dedication to fostering sustainable change in Los Angeles County. With support from partners such as the Los Angeles Dodgers Foundation, Snap Foundation, Brunswick Foundation, and the John N. Calley Foundation, the initiative invested in nonprofits working tirelessly to improve the lives of county residents.
Supervisor Barger, who represents the Fifth District, including Altadena, Pasadena, and other areas across Los Angeles County, expressed her admiration for the work of these local organizations. In her remarks, she also acknowledged the pivotal role the Goldhirsh Foundation plays in empowering community-driven solutions.
“I want to thank the Goldhirsh Foundation for believing in our communities and fueling this incredible work,” Supervisor Barger said. “Their investment ensures that local groups have the resources to meet urgent needs and build a brighter future for everyone who calls Los Angeles County home.”
This year, 14 organizations from Barger’s district were selected to receive a combined total of $680,000 through the LA2050 Grants Challenge. These local groups are addressing critical issues—from supporting underserved youth to tackling homelessness. Among the recipients were several organizations from Altadena and Pasadena that have made a profound impact on their communities.
One notable grantee, the Altadena Community Garden, received $25,000 to continue its work in promoting sustainable agriculture and providing fresh food access to the community. The Pasadena Educational Foundation was also awarded $25,000 to expand educational opportunities for youth in Pasadena and beyond.
College Access Plan, based in Pasadena, received $25,000 to support its mission of helping low-income students in Altadena and Pasadena achieve college success. The funding will enable the nonprofit to expand its college access programs, ensuring more students have the resources and support they need to pursue higher education.
In addition to these education-focused initiatives, Union Station’s Eaton Fire Housing Assistance Program in Altadena was granted $75,000 to provide vital support for unhoused individuals. The funding will help Union Station offer temporary housing and connect individuals to critical services as they work toward permanent housing solutions.
Other impactful organizations in the region include Red Hen Press, which received $25,000 to continue its literary work serving areas like Altadena, Pasadena, and North Hollywood, and The Village Family Services, awarded $75,000 to provide housing and services to homeless youth in the San Fernando Valley.
“This year’s grantees represent the spirit of collaboration and resilience that define our communities,” said Supervisor Barger. “These organizations are vital to the health and strength of our neighborhoods. They are uplifting families, inspiring youth, protecting our most vulnerable, and providing much-needed support to help our communities heal and grow.”
The LA2050 Grants Challenge is a public initiative that began with a survey earlier this year, where nearly 140,000 Angelenos cast their votes to determine which community issues mattered most to them. The LA2050 program continues to be a powerful force for strengthening Los Angeles County, ensuring that community-based organizations have the resources needed to create lasting, positive change.
Leave a Reply