A blend of self-care, sisterhood, and social impact is unfolding in Pasadena. In celebration of Women’s History Month, Friends In Deed—a community-focused nonprofit founded in 1894—is launching EmpowerHER, a dynamic three-week series of events meant to inspire, connect, and uplift women.
Kicking Off with Wellness
The series will commence on March 15 at the Pasadena Convention Center with a Wellness Workshop designed to help attendees center themselves through yoga, meditation, and a custom aromatherapy session where they can create their own signature scent.
The initiative will continue with an event called Books & Bouquets on March 18, which promises a night of engaging discussions coupled with a hands-on floral design experience. Following this, the series will conclude with Women’s History Trivia Night on March 25, where participants can test their knowledge and compete for prizes donated by local businesses.
More Than Just an Event
EmpowerHER is not merely a celebration; it also draws inspiration from The Women’s Room, an essential service at Friends In Deed that supports women experiencing or at risk of homelessness. The initiative aims to foster restoration and a sense of community, allowing participants to nourish their minds, bodies, and spirits through various events.
“For 130 years, Friends In Deed has been committed to meeting the immediate and long-term needs of our most vulnerable neighbors,” explained Merria Velasco, Senior Director of Development at Friends In Deed Pasadena.
According to Velasco, the organization is focused on providing holistic support, not just basic necessities, thus addressing overall well-being and fostering community-driven care.
A Sanctuary for Women in Crisis
Established in 2007, The Women’s Room offers vital services including meals, showers, laundry access, case management, and mental health support for women facing crises. Many women who utilize these services have experienced domestic violence or financial hardship. Notably, the 2023 Pasadena Homeless Count shows that 33% of the homeless population in Pasadena are women.
The Power of Mindfulness
Research from the National Institutes of Health suggests that mindfulness practices such as yoga and meditation can significantly alleviate anxiety and depression among women. Complementing these practices with creative arts can enhance emotional resilience and self-esteem.
“For our TWR guests and our event participants, stress relief and self-care are not luxuries; they are necessities,” Velasco emphasized. “These activities provide tools for relaxation and self-soothing during hardships.”
Community Support Shines Bright
Local businesses and individuals have come together to sponsor free tickets to the Wellness Workshop for those affected by the recent Eaton Fire, embodying the spirit of community support that Friends In Deed advocates.
“This generosity reflects the heart of what Friends In Deed embodies: showing up for one another in times of crisis and fostering resilience and renewal,” Velasco stated.
Friends In Deed aims to serve over 10,000 meals annually through its food programs and supports approximately 1,200 women through The Women’s Room while aspiring to expand EmpowerHER into a year-round initiative.
With an estimated attendance of 300 to 500 participants, the series aspires to spark ongoing discussions around mental wellness, women’s empowerment, and the importance of inclusive spaces in the community. “EmpowerHER transcends individual events; it’s about fostering a culture where self-care, connection, and community support are valued and accessible to all women,” Velasco added.
For more information about EmpowerHER, including tickets and sponsorship options, visit Friends In Deed Pasadena.
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