about northwest pasadena/altadena

Located on the outskirts of Pasadena, famed for its Rose Bowl and Tournament of Roses Parade, are the lesser known communities of Northwest Pasadena and Altadena (an unincorporated area to the north). These neighborhoods are home to some 80,000 residents, mostly Latino and African American families.

Community Needs Assessment Project 2007

The assessment project examines the unmet needs of children, youth and families in the Northwest Pasadena/Altadena communities. Poverty, high rates of unemployment and illiteracy, and a lack of affordable housing add to the social and economic challenges faced by residents. The area also has a disproportionately high number of foster youth, group homes and single parent households. Information sources include narrative summaries from 14 community assessments conducted between 2003 and 2007; statistical data from local, county, state and national sources; and focus groups attended by more than 160 students, parents and service providers. Read more.

Northwest Stories: Tales from our Neighborhood

In January 2009, staff and students from local nonprofit organizations took part in an intensive Center for Digital Storytelling workshop sponsored by Flintridge. The resulting 3-minute digital videos provide a heartfelt and personal glimpse into what inspires these dedicated individuals. Together, they paint a moving portrait of community life in Northwest Pasadena/Altadena.

To view the digital stories, click here.

Photos: Lori O'Neal