The Altadena Senior Center (ASC), a cornerstone of the community for over 40 years, was tragically destroyed by the Eaton Fire, which begun on January 7, 2025.
Located at 560 E. Mariposa Street, the ASC had served the surrounding communities of Altadena, La Crescenta, East Pasadena, and beyond, providing essential services, social engagement, and enriching opportunities for older adults. The center, a cornerstone of the community since the 1980s, was cherished by over 970 active members who relied on its programs and services to enhance their well-being, foster connections, and stay engaged in community life.
From daily meal distributions to health screenings, arts and crafts, fitness classes, and educational workshops, the ASC was a hub for learning, socializing, and staying active. Older adults could enjoy a variety of activities, including Zumba, yoga, and line dancing, along with field trips to local cultural and community destinations such as the Huntington Library, the Music Center, and the Santa Monica Farmers Market.
The center’s growing popularity was evident in its increasing attendance, with monthly visits rising by 16% from FY23-24 to FY24-25. In FY23-24, the center recorded 27,098 visits; during the first half of FY24-25, there were 15,681 visits, highlighting its crucial role in the community.
Despite the devastating loss of the building, the department swiftly responded to ensure that members received ongoing support. The center had closed for precautionary measures on January 8, 2025, and staff immediately began reaching out to all active participants, providing updates and connecting them with available resources. Center staff continues to follow up with those they have not yet been able to contact. While some members were relocated or staying with family, tragically, six members reported losing their homes in the fire. Those affected were referred to other meal sites and support services, including the Jackie Robinson Park & Community Center, where they can pick up grab-and-go meals.
Diana Lee, a longtime participant at the Altadena Senior Center, shared a heartfelt reflection on the profound impact the Center had on her and others. “We’ve been multigenerational at the Altadena Senior Center. My grandmother would go to the Center. When she stopped driving, I’d drive her there and she would go to the gym. That’s how I started going and became a regular,” she said. Diana, who frequented the center for classes, social gatherings, and fitness activities, emphasized how crucial the community connection was. “I’d be there Monday through Friday, taking classes like Tai Chi, Zumba, and working out in the gym. I enjoyed the holiday parties. I’d go on the trips. The social connection has been so important.”
Reflecting on the bonds formed at the Center, Diana continued, “About twelve of us ladies became close. We call ourselves Ladies of the Round Table. The connection was like a lifeline during this disaster. It was really a good thing to know our friends were OK and where they were. Three of the ladies lost their homes.” She also shared a deeply personal moment during the fire, “I got to see firefighters save my home. They are heroes. For me, it was Battalion 91 from Fresno. I’ll never forget them.”
When Diana learned of the fire’s destruction of the Center, her emotions were palpable: “When I found out that the Center burned, I wanted to cry. I’m a hard-to-cry person. But the Center meant so much to all of us. That’s where we gather. It’s our emotional support, our physical wellness place, and where we’d connect. We’d make sure every Thursday to have lunch there together. We already miss each other.”
Her words speak to the deep sense of loss felt by many: “I’m so sorry that we lost the Center. I’m so sorry for everyone who lost their homes.”
While the loss of the Altadena Senior Center is deeply felt, the department remains dedicated to preserving its legacy and ensuring that seniors in Altadena continue to receive the support, connection, and community they have relied on for decades. In a recent interview with CBS News/KCAL, Dr. Laura Trejo, Director of the Aging & Disabilities Department, discussed the department’s immediate response and encouraged the public to visit any of our 12 other community and senior centers for help and resources. Watch the full interview here: Altadena Senior Center Destroyed in Fire. Together, we will rebuild stronger and continue to serve the needs of the community.