NATHA Asks for Help after Fire Destroys Building

One week after hundreds of community members, along with Pasadena Dignitaries gathered for a ribbon cutting ceremony for NATHAs new Youth Media Production Center and to celebrate its 9th Annual Lincoln Village Festival, the organization suffered a devastating fire which destroyed the facility during the early morning hours of November 17 , The fire was caused by the malfunctioning of an electrical power strip. An investigation determined the fire was accidental, Pasadena Fire Department spokeswoman Lisa Derderian said. The damages to the organizations facility is estimatedat $1.75 million.
NATHA needs help and is inviting everyone to join in its “NATHA rebuilds”effort. The organization is in critical need of new books and art suppliers for its youth after-school enrichment and tutoring programs.
Monetary donations as well as gift cards to local art and school supply stores are also needed. A full list of donation items as well as pictures of the fire devastation can be seen at the organization’s new website
“www.natharebuilds.org” NATHA plans to use the new website, along with Facebook and other social media outlets to keep the community updated about its rebuilding efforts as well as upcoming opportunities to help. Staff has continued to walk students over from Jackson to NATHA as they have thousands of times to ensure there is no lapse in continued student achievement. “The fire destroyed everything, but we are committed and passionate about our responsibility to our youth and the community. We will not be deterred by this unfortunate accident.” said Executive Director Celestine Walker. After-school programs are being held in a temporary smaller adjacent facility located at 2011 N. Lincoln Avenue. NATHA needs volunteers to help decorate the facility for their annual Christmas party on Friday, December 21. We will rebuild!” said 25 year old Astrid Sandoval, who attended NATHA’s after-school program as a child and whose father was a founding member of the organization. NATHA plans to come back bigger,stronger and with enhanced programs to serve the Lincoln Village and Pasadena Community. “ In October 2013 at our 10th Annual Lincoln Village Festival, we hope to celebrate with the grand opening of our new facility. “We are so thankful to everyone for their calls, prayers and offers of help. The out pouring of love truly exemplifies NATHA mission of Neighbors Acting Together Helping All” said Walker. Donated items can be dropped off at NATHA, Monday – Friday, from 12:00pm – 2:00pm & 4:00pm – 6:00pm. Monetary donations can be sent to: NATHA, P.O. Box 40005, Pasadena, CA 91114. Volunteers are needed to help decorate on Saturday, December 15, from 9:00am – 11:00am & Tuesday, December 18th from 5:00pm – 7:00pm. For further details visit www.natharebuilds.org or call NATHA (626) 794-5889.

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