I went to Altadena to do an interview. I had come to cover a story—but what I witnessed was so much more. I saw the devastation firsthand: the ash, the silence, the homes lost. Families were grieving, and yet there was an undeniable strength—residents consoling one another, holding space, and refusing to let tragedy define them. In that moment, I knew this wasn’t just about what happened that day. It was about a much deeper story—one rooted in legacy, land, and love.

Not long after, I got a call from the friend of the man I had interviewed. His home had also burned down. He wanted to share his story too. That call showed me this wasn’t an isolated event—it was a ripple effect. More people began reaching out. More stories came forward. So I started listening. I started researching. I learned about the long-standing presence of Black families in Altadena, the history behind their homes, and the pride behind their neighborhoods. I knew I couldn’t tell every story—but I could try to honor the spirit of the community through the voices that trusted me to carry their truth.

To Altadena, With Love began as a docuseries podcast—but it has become something more. A platform. A mirror. A call to pay attention.

In the aftermath of the fire, many families have faced a new crisis: insurance gaps, stalled rebuilding efforts, and now the threat of foreclosure. Some homes damaged in the fire are listed as pre-foreclosures, and legacy Black homeowners—who make up a small percentage of the population—are once again at risk of losing their place. Meanwhile, outside investors and developers are beginning to acquire land, putting pressure on a community already fighting to stay rooted.

In response, To Altadena, With Love has grown into a broader mission to preserve, protect, and uplift. We’ve joined forces with the Dena Forward Alliance—a group of professionals in housing, policy, health, and community development who are doing the work on the ground. Together, we’re helping to raise funds and resources for families impacted by the fire and for long-term community-led efforts.

Altadena is not just a place—it’s a legacy. This work is about making sure that legacy is seen, heard, and safeguarded.