January 2026

Finding Joy in My Role on The Pasadena Village Board

By Michelle Chiu
Posted: 03/28/2025

Growing up, my grandfather was a beacon of community service.  His tireless commitment to volunteer work wasn't a set of isolated actions but a lifestyle that demonstrated how one could intertwine personal purpose with communal betterment.  As I became an adult, I have followed in his footsteps and have participated in many volunteer work opportunities throughout my life.  The opportunity to serve on the Pasadena Village Board feels especially like a way to honor his memory and legacy.  

The opportunity to contribute to the mission of Pasadena Village with its emphasis on fostering a supportive environment where older adults can age gracefully and independently, surrounded by a network of peers and support is in alignment with my personal convictions and aspirations to create a lasting positive impact.  

On a personal level, the rewards are manifold. Besides the satisfaction of knowing I am part of a meaningful organization which makes a difference in many people’s life, the role provides continuous learning experiences. Each interaction and board meeting offers insights into leadership, strategic planning, and the importance of empathy in decision-making. Working alongside a diverse group of passionate individuals enriches my understanding and hones my ability to collaborate effectively. Moreover, one of the most profound rewards is witnessing firsthand the transformation and empowerment that can flourish within a supportive community, evident especially during the aftermath of the devastating Eaton Fires. Being part of a process that positively impacts lives provides me a sense of fulfillment and purpose that is hard to replicate elsewhere.

Professionally, I've amassed skills and experiences that I believe can benefit the strategic direction and governance of Pasadena Village. As a board director, I can leverage my expertise in organizational management, strategic planning, and community outreach to help steer the village toward accomplishing its goals. It's rewarding to know that my professional abilities can contribute outside of my regular work environment, especially towards causes that improve the quality of life for others. I am very fortunate to work for a company that shares my belief in the importance of giving back to the community and actively supports volunteer work and sponsorship initiatives. It is incredibly fulfilling to be part of a workplace where corporate generosity and individual passion intersect, creating a ripple effect of positivity and change.

Ultimately, serving as a Board Director for the Pasadena Village is more than a duty—it's a privilege that offers both personal and communal benefits. The opportunity to give back, learn, and grow with the organization and its members is an invaluable experience, one that continues to nurture my commitment to making a meaningful difference in our community.

The Pasadena Board of Directors meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4:00pm, sometimes on Zoom and sometimes in person. The meeting is open for all to attend, so if you are interested in knowing more about how the Board operates and what we do, you are welcome to attend any upcoming Board meetings. Please feel free to reach out to Bridget Brewster or me with any questions regarding the Pasadena Village Board of Directors. Your questions will help inform future articles concerning the purpose, scope, operations and governance of your Board of Directors.