Tuesday, April 29, 2025

Altadena Future Fair To Connect Wildfire Victims With Rebuilding Resources

Free community event offers support for residents affected by devastating January fire

The Altadena Future Fair, scheduled for May 10-11 at the Pasadena Convention Center, will bring together rebuilding resources for residents affected by the catastrophic January 2025 Eaton Fire that destroyed thousands of homes and businesses.

This free community event aims to connect displaced residents with architects, builders, sustainable materials vendors, and support services under one roof.

“Our goal is to ensure that every resident has the resources, support, and community strength to recover and thrive after this disaster,” said Toni Raines, Host of “Toni Talks” and Systems Consultant at Altadena Talks Foundation, in a press release for the Builders Town Hall event hosted by the Altadena Talks Foundation in February.

The two-day fair will showcase vendors specializing in fire-resilient building materials, including non-combustible insulation, lightweight concrete alternatives, solar energy systems, recycled and natural building materials, fire-rated windows and roofing, modular prefab innovations, and eco-friendly landscaping solutions.

All vendors undergo vetting committee review to ensure quality and appropriateness, organizers said.

Attendees can participate in workshops, visit the trade show, browse a locals market, engage in community healing activities, and access a dedicated kids room.

The fair specifically targets “community-minded architects, builders, and designers who understand that rebuilding a town is about more than just constructing houses — it’s about restoring neighborhoods, trust, and a shared future,” according to the event’s official website.

Linda Taalman, Head Architect at IT Houses, emphasized the economic benefits of community-based rebuilding in an interview on the Altadena Future Fair Podcast: “The more people you have on the same plan — regardless of what that plan is — the more you will be able to save money, both through shared expenses and negotiating power.”

Community organizations featured at the event will include The Foothill Catalog Foundation, The Altadena Collective, Altagether, and The Altadena Coalition, according to organizers

Vendor opportunities are still open for businesses interested in participating.

The Altadena Future Fair has also launched a podcast titled “Altadena Collective by Altadena Future Fair” featuring interviews with community members, architects, and grassroots organizations involved in rebuilding efforts. Recent episodes have included discussions with ROCKWOOL (a fire-resistant insulation provider), Regrow Altadena (a plant propagation initiative), the Altadena Collective (a community housing restoration group), and the Foothill Catalog (an architectural resources project).

While the event is free, guests must RSVP through the event’s Typeform ticketing system to receive entry.

More information about the Altadena Future Fair can be found at www.AltadenaFutureFair.com.