Standing With Jimmy Kimmel: Altadena Remembers Who Showed Up

Nic Arnzen (Photo courtesy of Nic Arnzen)

Today, I’m proudly wearing my Jimmy Kimmel T-shirt, not just because I’m a fan, but because I stand with Jimmy. He showed up when it mattered most, and that kind of presence deserves recognition.

By Nic Arnzen

Jimmy Kimmel came to Altadena during a time of real need. He didn’t just host a resource fair or distribute tens of thousands of dollars in goods, he gave us something even more powerful: a platform. That same day, he used his national show to spotlight our community’s challenges. The result? Over half a million dollars raised for local nonprofits in just a matter of weeks. Real action. Real impact.

And Jimmy’s commitment didn’t stop there. He and his incredible team made plans to return to Altadena to continue uplifting our community and shine a light on the ongoing needs we face. That’s what it means to show up for people.

Now contrast that with Donald T.’s recent visit to California. He didn’t come to Altadena. In fact, his administration denied our state over $70 billion in aid. He sent National Guard troops and ICE agents, not to protect, but to intimidate, arrest, and sow fear in our communities. Instead of bringing people together, T. continues to fan the flames of hate, targeting minorities and vilifying those who dare to disagree.

In these divided times, when kindness and hope can feel far away, I choose to stand with those who lead with compassion. Jimmy Kimmel has shown he’s more than a late-night host, he’s a friend to communities like ours.

He’s not going anywhere. And neither are we.

Let’s stand together, because love is still stronger than hate.