The efforts, which the nonprofit calls Community Impact Projects, run from soil testing for fire-affected residents to a youth curriculum about the area’s history. Leadership Pasadena said all five will continue past graduation through its alumni network and partner organizations.
One team, focused on climate and sustainability, worked with the City of Pasadena to distribute soil testing and remediation education to residents affected by the Eaton Fire, according to Leadership Pasadena. Its partners include the Center for Applied Ecological Remediation, EFRU and PostFire.
A second project, Trauma-Informed Housing, developed support resources tied to a 14-unit rebuild by Beacon Housing.
Two projects center on young people. The Youth Empowerment Collective works with Day One’s Summer Skills Program, and Pasadena Xplore, created with the Boys & Girls Club of Pasadena, introduces young people to the history, culture and natural environment of Pasadena and Altadena. Leadership Pasadena said alumni will help run both this summer.
The fifth project, Delicious Dena, collects family recipes and the stories behind them to preserve local history and culture, working with Altadena Cooks, Recipes for Altadena and community residents.
“Our Community Impact Projects provide participants with an opportunity to strengthen their leadership skills while working alongside organizations already making a difference in our community,” said NC Inguanzo, Executive Director of Leadership Pasadena. “This year’s cohort demonstrated a remarkable commitment to collaboration, service, and community well-being. Their projects reflect both the challenges our community faces and the creativity and compassion needed to address them.”
The Eaton Fire began Jan. 7, 2025, in Eaton Canyon and destroyed 9,418 structures in Altadena and Pasadena, according to Cal Fire. At least 19 people died, and the fire became the second-most destructive in California history.
Pasadena Mayor Victor Gordo welcomed attendees at the ceremony and reflected on what makes Pasadena unique, emphasizing the importance of civic engagement and community involvement, according to Leadership Pasadena. The organization said the ceremony drew family members, alumni, elected officials, nonprofit leaders, business professionals and community partners.
The Class of 2026 represents a diverse cross-section of leaders from the public, private, nonprofit, education, healthcare and community sectors, the organization said. Founded in 1999, Leadership Pasadena runs a six-month program from January through June and counts more than 470 graduates, according to the organization. Throughout the program, participants studied governance, education, economic development, science and technology, arts and media, and the history and quality of life of the greater Pasadena area.
Applications for the Class of 2027 open in September 2026, and information on the Class of 2026 projects is posted at leadershippasadena.org/getinvolved.
Leadership Pasadena said the projects will carry into the summer, with alumni helping implement the youth programs and other teams continuing to support housing recovery and the gathering of community stories.
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