When Jacqueline Snell lost her business contracts and was displaced by wildfires in Altadena, she didn’t retreat—she created a stage for healing.
The Jazz at the Paseo Summer Series launches July 31 in Pasadena, offering free monthly concerts designed specifically for families recovering from California’s devastating wildfires.
The program combines live jazz performances with art therapy and wellness programming.
“After losing business contracts, being displaced and witnessing the impact on so many families after the wildfires in Altadena, I felt called to do something restorative and joyful,” said Jacqueline Snell, founder of Jazzy Jam for Empowerment, the nonprofit organizing the series.
The events run 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. on the last Thursday of each summer month—July 31, Aug. 28 and Sept. 25—at The Paseo Courtyard, 300 E. Colorado Blvd.
Each evening features surprise jazz performances and art therapy sessions.
Attendees can visit NOOR’s Sip & Swing Lounge Wine Garden, with proceeds benefiting the nonprofit.
Jazzy Jam for Empowerment previously helped wildfire survivors through April’s “Glam Prom Giveaway,” serving more than 900 families with formal wear and styling assistance.
“Music has the power to calm anxiety, uplift spirits, and bring people together across generations and backgrounds,” Jacqueline Snell explained.
All events are free and open to the public.
“Jazz at the Paseo Summer Series” will run on Thursday, July 31; Thursday, Aug. 28; and Thursday, Sept. 25 at 6:30 p.m. to 9 p.m. The Paseo Courtyard, 300 E. Colorado Blvd., in Pasadena. For more call (626) 755-3057 or visit https://jazzyjamforempowerment.org/concerts. Tickets: Free.
