Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena Announces Event That Will Honor Two Late Club Leaders

The Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena will hold its annual “Black Tie & Burgers” fundraiser on Saturday, October 5, celebrating the organization’s impact on local youth and the legacies of two local men at the Club.

This year’s event, themed “Through the Blue Doors,” pays tribute to two late Club leaders while supporting programs for children and teens.

The evening will feature hand-crafted burgers, fine wine, entertainment and auctions. Organizers say the theme highlights how club members transform dreams into attainable goals.

“When a kid walks through the Club’s blue doors, their dreams become attainable goals,” the organization said in its announcement.

This year’s fundraiser is extra special as it will honor the late John Matthiessen, a two-time Board chair known as “Big John,” and Larry Cole, longtime director of the Mackenzie-Scott Clubhouse. Both passed away earlier this year.

Matthiessen, who turned 95 in 2021, was celebrated by staff for his enduring influence. His legacy continues through an endowment supporting club programs.

Cole led the Mackenzie-Scott Clubhouse, overseeing academic, health and leadership initiatives. His work helped guide youth from diverse backgrounds toward success.

The Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena operates multiple locations, offering after-school and summer programs focused on character development and academic support.

The event logo features an orange silhouette of a child jumping through blue doors, with the Boys & Girls Club symbol displayed prominently. This symbol, resembling an outstretched hand, appears on the blue door in the image and at the bottom.

Organizers have not yet released ticket information or a specific venue for the Saturday, October 5 event. They promise to share more details soon on this year’s Through the Blue Doors Black Tie & Burgers fundraiser.