Sunday, August 24, 2025

Local Church, Community Hub Celebrates 25 Years with Community Cookout for Fire Survivors

[photo credit: LIFT International]

LIFT honors resilience and community support through festive neighborhood gathering

LIFT International will mark its 25th anniversary with a special community cookout on Saturday, August 30, dedicated to supporting survivors of the recent Eaton Canyon Fire.

The free event at Eaton Blanche Park will provide a day of healing, connection, and celebration for local residents.

The nonprofit is a vibrant church and community hub dedicated to serving the Altadena and Pasadena communities.

“For 25 years, LIFT International has been committed to being a light in the community—bringing hope, restoration, and practical support to those in need,” said Anthony and Micheline McFarland, founders of LIFT International.

“As we celebrate this milestone, we’re especially honored to recognize the strength and resilience of the fire survivors we’ve walked alongside these past seven months.”

The event, running from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m., will offer complimentary food, family-friendly games, face painting, and a pie-eating contest.

Highlights include $100 reward gift cards for game winners, sponsored by the Pasadena Community Coalition, and backpacks filled with school supplies for children and students.

Attendees are encouraged to bring lawn chairs and blankets.

The event is free, and volunteers are welcome.

Interested community members must RSVP by Tuesday, August 26 at 6 p.m. through www.LiftAltadena.org.

Located at 3100 East Del Mar Boulevard in Pasadena, the cookout invites families to reconnect, enjoy a festive atmosphere, and celebrate LIFT International’s quarter-century of community service.