Tuesday, June 23, 2026

Twenty-Three Children Cross the Bridge to Kindergarten at Pasadena Nonprofit

[photo credit: Families Forward Learning Center]

The special graduation ceremony at Families Forward Learning Center featured a traditional Bridging Ceremony, a meaningful milestone symbolizing each child’s transition to kindergarten and the next stage of their educational journey. At FFLC, parents learn alongside their kids — attending English-language classes, parenting workshops, and adult education courses in the same building. The nonprofit has practiced this two-generation model since 1961, when it began as a small “Mothers’ Club” in Northwest Pasadena. It now serves low-income families in Pasadena and Altadena with children from birth to five years old, according to the organization.

This year’s theme, “Building a Brighter Future,” reflected the potential and opportunities that lie ahead for the graduating students, according to a press release from the organization. Adding to the festive atmosphere, parents of the graduates created colorful LEGO-themed decorations that complemented the event’s theme.

“I’m so proud of our 23 graduates and their teachers, many of whom started our program as infants,” said Elva Sandoval, FFLC’s executive director. “Our graduates are well prepared and excited to take their next big step into kindergarten.”

The center, located at 980 North Fair Oaks Avenue, was founded by Mara Moser, who reached out to a handful of Northwest Pasadena mothers seeking friendship and social support. What began as an informal club grew into a comprehensive nonprofit offering early childhood education, parent education, adult education, mental health support, and leadership training, according to the organization’s website. A 2007 capital campaign funded the purchase and renovation of its current home, the Mary Lois & Richard Nevins Family Learning Center.

FFLC’s morning and afternoon sessions accommodate up to 116 children across five age-appropriate classrooms, from infants through pre-kindergarteners, according to the organization.

For more information about Families Forward Learning Center, contact Development Manager Liz Kwong at (626) 792-2687, ext. 123. The center’s website is familiesforwardlc.org.