Pasadena Senior Center to Celebrate 60th Anniversary with Zoom Party

Despite the COVID-19 pandemic and mandates for social isolation, the Pasadena Senior Center’s 60th anniversary party will take place, although differently than originally proposed.

A planned celebration at the center that would have pulled out all the stops will instead be a virtual event anyone can watch live online Friday, May 22, at 11 a.m.

The half-hour program, broadcast live through Zoom for viewing on computers, tablets and smartphones, will feature a  presentation of historic photos through the years; guest speakers making brief remarks, including Pasadena Senior Center Executive Director Akila Gibbs, PSC Board of Directors President Sandy Greenstein and Junior League of Pasadena Community Director Bonnie Wallace; a short video about the Junior League of Pasadena’s support of the Pasadena Senior Center financially and through community service hours during the first 10 years that allowed the center to take root and thrive; and the unveiling of a special birthday cake made from a 1960 recipe.

“Health and safety directives during this pandemic prevent us from hosting a big party at the center as originally planned, but we are not going to let that stop us from celebrating this vital community asset,” said Gibbs. “I encourage everyone to get in the spirit of the event by having a slice of cake and a scoop of ice cream, or some other sweet treat, at home while watching the party online.”

To register for the virtual party, visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org and click on Lectures and Events, then Online Events. There is no limit to the number of spectators. Membership at the Pasadena Senior Center is not required. The event is sponsored by Southern California Gas Company.

“I also encourage everyone to make a $60 donation to the Pasadena Senior Center in honor of this occasion,” Gibbs added.

To donate with a credit card, visit www.pasadenaseniorcenter.org. Checks may be sent to the center at 85 E. Holly St., Pasadena CA 91104; write “Donation” in the memo line.

“The 60th is the diamond anniversary, which certainly is appropriate because older adults shine brightly like diamonds,” said Greenstein. “Sixty years of innovative programs and services is a milestone worth celebrating.”

Founded in 1960, the Pasadena Senior Center is an independent, donor-supported non-profit organization that offers recreational, educational, wellness and social services to people ages 50 and over in a welcoming environment. Services are also provided for frail, low-income and homebound seniors.

The center, deemed an essential community service, is providing vital social services and other assistance to older adults in need six days a week during the COVID-19 crisis while practicing social distancing. Classes and other activities are offered online.