Cancer Support Center of Pasadena Unveils New Facility

 

Having been the San Gabriel Valley’s only organization of its kind to offer free support for cancer patients and families for the past 26 years, the Cancer Support Community of Pasadena (CSCP) is excited to move into its new facility that will allow them to go the extra mile in a way they haven’t been able to do yet.

CSCP is an organization that helps people affected by cancer enhance their health and well-being through participation in a professional program of emotional support, education and hope. It is often referred to as a sanctuary that facilitates healing and positivity for people going through extremely difficult circumstances that cancer presents.

“We are the only organization in the Pasadena area that offers these programs free of charge,” said Pat Ostiller, Director of Development.

For the past 22 years, CSCP has been headquartered in a facility in Pasadena that proved to be limiting the capabilities and practicalities of what CSCP can offer.

Issues with logistics such as parking, proximity of various program locations within the building and not being able to separate office space with activity space were problems that were affecting the allure and productivity of this organization.

“We had some parking problems and we wanted to make sure that parking was never a reason why participants drove away,” explained Ostiller.

In this case, an issue as simple as parking difficulty means the difference between helping someone in need and unknowingly letting someone drive away. CSCP offers psychosocial support during times of medical treatment and procedures such as chemotherapy and radiation.

Additionally, various support groups, educational workshops and mind-body classes like yoga and meditation are staple programs that CSCP will be able to expand upon in the new facility.

For instance, Yoga at the old facility was practiced outdoors on another floor and will now have its dedicated areas within one space at the new location.

“We were able to build out of raw space to our exact building specifications which will allow us to accommodate everything we are doing in the same space,” explained Meg Symes, Event Director at CSCP.

The staff at CSCP were adamant about the aesthetic design of the space as well.

“We designed the space with colors that are very intentional calming, cool colors to facilitate a healing environment. There is evidence that your environment affects healing,” said Ostiller.

While this may be an expensive process to upgrade in such a manner, the move was made possible by the generosity of private donors who believe in CSCP’s mission. Ostiller described the plan to move as preconceived idea that just happened to work out.

“Our lease was up December 2015 and it was time for a facelift and revitalization. The timing was right and we are thrilled and grateful to our donors that made this happen.” explained Ostiller.

The proximity of the new location brings optimism to the staff at CSCP in regards to making it easier for participants to become involved. Not to mention, the location is in the heart of the city located on top of the Humane Society on the corner of Del Mar and Raymond Avenue.

“I think it’s going to help get the word out about what we do, expand our services and help more people,” said Symes.

The staff at CSCP are excited to start a new chapter in the wonderful new facility which will open its doors to the public in a Grand Opening Ceremony on May 10 located at 76 E. Del Mar Blvd. Suite #215.

For more information visit http://www.cscpasadena.org or call (626) 796-1063.