Friday, February 28, 2025

Altadena Talks Foundation to Host Builders Town Hall to Support Community Rebuilding Efforts

In response to the devastating Eaton Fire that swept through Altadena in January, the Altadena Talks Foundation is organizing a Builders Town Hall event to aid in the community’s rebuilding efforts

The event is scheduled from 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, March 8 at 1497 N. Hill Ave., Pasadena, just north of Washington Boulevard.

The Builders Town Hall aims to bring together residents, industry professionals, and local leaders to discuss strategies for reconstruction, share resources, and foster collaboration. Attendees will have the opportunity to engage with experts in construction, design, and urban planning, gaining valuable insights into sustainable rebuilding practices.

Featured speakers include:

• Allison Allain: CEO – PCI Builders. Renowned architect specializing in sustainable design. She founded PCI Builders in 2008 with the sole purpose of understanding every aspect of her clients’ vision. With an extensive background in construction and project management.
• Ariel Babikian: Architect with expertise in community-driven projects with alternative materials. Executive Director at ARDA (Armenian Relief and Development).
• Kendra Mays: Designer/Builder with a commitment to design affordable custom homes.
• Melissa Auten: Communications specialist, connector, and advocate for housing. Director of Business Development – Unscripted Interior Design.
• Patrice Quishenberry: VP – Community Outreach and Real Estate professional at Williams Homes.
• Sal Amin: CEO of Vivere Construction.
• Dr. Ellen Williams: Personal Growth & Development and Trauma Therapist.
• Justin Love of Love Construction, loveconstructionca.com.
• Jasmine Shupper, GreenLineHousing.org.

The event will be hosted by Toni Raines, a systems consultant and host of the “Toni Talks” segment on Altadena Talks. She will be joined by Altadena Talks podcast co-hosts Jamal Smith and Brian Baccus, who are involved in community advocacy and local rebuilding efforts.

The Altadena Talks Foundation, established in the aftermath of the Eaton Fire, is a public foundation committed to assisting individuals and families affected by the disaster.

The foundation’s mission extends beyond immediate relief, focusing on building sustainable support systems that empower the community to recover, rebuild, and prepare for the future.

Through strategic partnerships, advocacy efforts, and community-driven initiatives, the foundation provides emergency assistance, disseminates vital information, and fosters community engagement.

“Our goal is to ensure that every resident has the resources, support, and community strength to recover and thrive after this disaster,” Raines said. “The Builders Town Hall is a platform for sharing knowledge, resources, and hope as we work together to rebuild Altadena.”

Community members, stakeholders, and media representatives are encouraged to attend the Builders Town Hall. For more information and to register for the event, please visit the Altadena Talks Foundation’s Eventbrite page.