Pasadena Village to Honor Aging-in-Place Advocates at Annual Celebration

Pasadena Village, a nonprofit organization supporting older adults, will host its annual Vintage Celebration on Wednesday, Oct. 23 at 5 p.m. to honor local aging-in-place advocates. The event, themed “Aging in Place Like a Fine Wine,” will take place at the Woman’s Club of South Pasadena clubhouse, built in 1913.

This year’s celebration will recognize the Rotary Club of Altadena and Esther Gillies for their contributions to the community. The evening will feature live music by Art Deco Entertainment, hors d’oeuvres, and a raffle with prizes ranging from Pasadena POPs tickets to bread-making lessons.

As a highlight of the event, Pasadena Village will be unveiling newly commissioned artworks created by and for older adults. Several Pasadena Village members have offered to produce art pieces in exchange for donations to the organization.

Esther Gillies, a licensed clinical social worker, will be honored for her leadership in Pasadena Village and involvement with the United Nations Association Pasadena Foothills Chapter and organizations preventing child abuse. She established an internship program for social work students in 2014, providing mentorship for over 15 interns from local universities.

Gillies has served as Board Secretary, supported the Village Care Team, developed the women’s group model and Caregiver Support Group, and led various initiatives within Pasadena Village since 2013.

The Rotary Club of Altadena, led by Maricela Viramontes, President, will also be recognized for its community service. The club merged with Pasadena After Hours Rotary Club in 2022. They’ve supported Pasadena Village through donations of a laptop, chairs, tables, and assistance with the annual Volunteer Appreciation Lunch.

For sponsorship inquiries, contact Pasadena Village Executive Director Katie Brandon at (626) 765-6093 or katie@pasadenavillage.org. 

Tickets for the event are priced at $65 for regular admission and $350 for VIP entry, which includes admission for two guests. They can be purchased at https://pasadena.helpfulvillage.com/events/2562 or by calling (626) 765-6037.