Veterans Shred Event in Altadena: Protecting the Community from Identity Theft

On Wednesday, May 22, 2024, the Altadena Community Center hosted a Veterans Shred Event, drawing nearly 80 attendees and resulting in the shredding of 3,000 pounds of personal documents. This event was a crucial step in safeguarding the community from identity theft and scams, particularly for older and disabled adults who are often more vulnerable to these threats.

Identity theft is a growing concern, with thieves constantly devising new methods to steal personal information. Shredding sensitive documents is an effective way to prevent this. According to the Federal Trade Commission (FTC), shredding documents that contain personal information, such as bank statements and medical records, is a key step in protecting oneself from identity theft.

Events like the Veterans Shred Event not only promote security but also foster a sense of community, making such necessary chores more enjoyable when done together.

AARP Los Angeles and Supervisor Kathryn Barger played pivotal roles in organizing and supporting the event. Their leadership has significantly contributed to the safety and well-being of veterans and the broader community. AARP’s Fraud Watch Network also provided valuable fraud prevention tips, further educating attendees on how to protect themselves from scams.

In addition to document shredding, the event featured the involvement of several important partners. The Goodwill Veteran Peer Access Network, the County of Los Angeles Department of Public Works, and the National Cemetery joined forces with the Aging & Disabilities Outreach team to offer essential resources and information. The collaboration of these organizations ensured that attendees received comprehensive support.

Local partners also made notable contributions by distributing donated food boxes and denim to those in need. This added a layer of community care and support, making the event not just about shredding documents but also about helping one another.

The Veterans Shred Event in Altadena was a resounding success, demonstrating the power of community action in protecting against identity theft and supporting vulnerable populations.