January 2026

A Board Director Perspective

By Michelle Chiu
Posted: 05/02/2025

Board director Michelle Chiu conducted this Q&A with fellow director Rick Holliday to get his perspective on board service.

MC: Rick, will you share a bit about your background and what motivated you to join the Pasadena Village, and get involved in fundraising for the Pasadena Village fire relief fund? 

RH: During COVID, I saw the 1619 Project and was amazed by the detail and information.  I continued to join the zoom meetings and learned so much about Pasadena I was shocked.  I wanted to associate with people like these (Dick Myers).  I later was invited to join the Board of Directors which has led to many interesting and engaging activities.

MC: What were the primary goals you set out to achieve with the fundraising effort? 

RH: As the Development Chair, I’ve been tasked to lead and work with an amazing group of Villagers.  They set the mark for how the group goes about developing funding opportunities.  Naturally, the fires effect on the entire Village and greater community is a motivator.

MC: What strategies did you find most effective in raising funds for the fire relief?  

RH: Interestingly, we just had to ask.  The greater community immediately jumped into action.  Having already recognized what the Pasadena Village does within the community, we received an outpouring of support, which is the best indicator of the value the Village has in this community.

MC: How did you engage with your community or network to gather support for your fundraising efforts?  

RH: Executive Director Katie Brandon and the Village Staff, has lead an incredible effort to ensure the Village message of “aging in place” is heard.  

MC: Did you collaborate with any organizations, and how did these partnerships enhance your efforts?  

RH: Collaboration is the single most effect way the Village operates.  We have several partnerships  with business leaders and organizations in the community who support the Village movement.

MC: Will you share some of the outcomes of your fundraising efforts? How did the funds raised make a difference in the Villagers who were impacted?  

RH: The Village, through the efforts and contributions  of our partners, has been able to quickly respond to the individual needs of the members who experienced loss due to the fires. The goal of the Village is to create community when there may not be a natural or organic environment. The fire demonstrated this model successfully, and I know all are thankful for the result.

MC: What lessons have you learned from this experience, and what advice would you give to others who wish to raise funds for similar causes?  

RH: Authentically provide a service that serves more than yourself. I have learned that the more you give, the more you’ll get in return. The Pasadena Village is one of many across the nation and I hope the movement grows.

MC: Are you planning any future fundraising activities for the relief effort or for other Pasadena Village causes, and what will you do differently based on your past experiences?  

RH: Thankfully, plans are in place for events, activities, fundraisers, etc. The Board of Directors works well in providing ideas and guidance to further the mission of the Village Movement and specifically, the legacy of the Pasadena Village.

The Pasadena Board of Directors meets every 3rd Tuesday of the month at 4:00 PM. The meeting is open for Villagers and guests 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 (Note: the Annual Board Retreat will be held on May 28 in lieu of the regular May Board Meeting).  Please feel free to send questions you would like answered in the newsletter to me or to Voice of the Village Editor Bridget Brewster.