How a College Guidance Program Became a Lifesaver After Wildfires in Altadena
On January 7, a tragedy struck Altadena as flames raced through Eaton Canyon in what would become one of California's most destructive wildfires. Among those caught in the chaos was Alejandra Surias, a senior at Pasadena High School, who was forced to flee her home with her family in the dead of night. Surrounded by thick smoke and the chaos of howling winds, their escape was nothing short of harrowing.
Upon returning to assess what remained of her home, Alejandra discovered that the apartment she had lived in her entire life was devastated. With windows blown out and ash covering what was once her world, the reality of their loss hit hard. School closures added to the disruption, and her family went through immense emotional and logistical turmoil as they transitioned from one temporary shelter to another, searching for stability in an insecure world.
A beacon of hope came two weeks later when Karla Ramos, from the College Access Plan (CAP), reached out to Alejandra. CAP, a nonprofit organization that assists underserved students in navigating the path to college, transformed overnight into a critical resource for families affected by the fire. In those tumultuous days following the wildfire, the dedicated staff at CAP extended their services beyond college planning.
They provided essential support, such as financial and emotional resources, to Alejandra and hundreds of others whose lives had been uprooted. Among the resources provided were grocery gift cards, essential supplies, and significant financial assistance, including a suitcase filled with necessities. This support became instrumental for Alejandra’s family, enabling them to secure a temporary apartment in Arcadia amidst their grief.
Beyond the immediate needs, CAP also created unique uplifting experiences. Alejandra participated in a memorable evening at the Grammy Awards, where 15 program students were treated to a special outing. Macy's in Pasadena sponsored their outfits, adding a sprinkle of joy to an otherwise challenging time. For Alejandra, meeting her idol Billie Eilish was a highlight, providing a much-needed distraction from the turmoil.
With financial support having surpassed $425,000 from the California Community Foundation, CAP has proven to be an indispensable ally in the recovery efforts following the wildfires. Families like Ca'Leah King's, who experienced displacement and significant loss, have found solace in the ongoing assistance from the program. Their connection to CAP has remained crucial as they navigated the challenges of relocation and rebuilding their lives post-displacement.
Executive Director Mo Hyman of CAP reported that an astonishing 82% of the 1,700 students served by the organization were directly impacted by the fires. Many lost their homes, while others faced displacement that forced them into new living arrangements. Throughout this time, the staff worked tirelessly to assess the needs of the students and distribute the necessary resources.
Some students, including twins Katarine and Matthew Hart, found themselves needing to reevaluate their college plans due to the escalation in costs from their new circumstances. With CAP’s support, they are filing for additional financial aid while preparing for their upcoming attendance at the University of Hawaii.
Hyman highlighted a profound concern regarding the emotional toll that such disasters inflict on students. Previous studies have showcased the lasting impact of trauma on young minds, and there are fears of a delayed reaction to the psychological effects of the fires. Hyman is particularly worried that students might, in the coming months, choose not to pursue their educational goals due to the impacts of their trauma.
In response, CAP is adapting its strategies and doubling down on its commitment to aiding their community. Rather than expand into new regions, they are refocusing their efforts on supporting Pasadena and Altadena families, establishing a network of peer counseling that incorporates trauma-informed practices to address the emergent needs of the community.
As CAP continues its foundational mission to prepare underserved students for a successful college journey, it remains steadfast amid adversity. Since its inception in 2006, the program’s focus has always been on bridging the educational gap in the Pasadena area. Their initiatives have positively influenced countless students, with around 98% of seniors benefiting from the program advancing to postsecondary education.
Now, as Alejandra looks to the future and plans her studies in ultrasound technology at Cypress College, she reflects on the support she received from CAP. With a renewed sense of purpose and confidence, she attributes her growth and resilience to the dedicated staff who have guided her through one of the toughest chapters of her life. "I love this program so much," Alejandra shared. "They've been incredibly supportive and helped me regain my footing."
The Road Ahead
While recovery from the Eaton Fire is ongoing, the resilience shown by the community and organizations like CAP exemplifies the strength found in support systems during times of crisis. The journey may be filled with challenges, but with hope, guidance, and collective efforts, the students and families of Pasadena are taking steps toward rebuilding their lives and futures.
Upon returning to assess what remained of her home, Alejandra discovered that the apartment she had lived in her entire life was devastated. With windows blown out and ash covering what was once her world, the reality of their loss hit hard. School closures added to the disruption, and her family went through immense emotional and logistical turmoil as they transitioned from one temporary shelter to another, searching for stability in an insecure world.
A beacon of hope came two weeks later when Karla Ramos, from the College Access Plan (CAP), reached out to Alejandra. CAP, a nonprofit organization that assists underserved students in navigating the path to college, transformed overnight into a critical resource for families affected by the fire. In those tumultuous days following the wildfire, the dedicated staff at CAP extended their services beyond college planning.
They provided essential support, such as financial and emotional resources, to Alejandra and hundreds of others whose lives had been uprooted. Among the resources provided were grocery gift cards, essential supplies, and significant financial assistance, including a suitcase filled with necessities. This support became instrumental for Alejandra’s family, enabling them to secure a temporary apartment in Arcadia amidst their grief.
Beyond the immediate needs, CAP also created unique uplifting experiences. Alejandra participated in a memorable evening at the Grammy Awards, where 15 program students were treated to a special outing. Macy's in Pasadena sponsored their outfits, adding a sprinkle of joy to an otherwise challenging time. For Alejandra, meeting her idol Billie Eilish was a highlight, providing a much-needed distraction from the turmoil.
With financial support having surpassed $425,000 from the California Community Foundation, CAP has proven to be an indispensable ally in the recovery efforts following the wildfires. Families like Ca'Leah King's, who experienced displacement and significant loss, have found solace in the ongoing assistance from the program. Their connection to CAP has remained crucial as they navigated the challenges of relocation and rebuilding their lives post-displacement.
Executive Director Mo Hyman of CAP reported that an astonishing 82% of the 1,700 students served by the organization were directly impacted by the fires. Many lost their homes, while others faced displacement that forced them into new living arrangements. Throughout this time, the staff worked tirelessly to assess the needs of the students and distribute the necessary resources.
Some students, including twins Katarine and Matthew Hart, found themselves needing to reevaluate their college plans due to the escalation in costs from their new circumstances. With CAP’s support, they are filing for additional financial aid while preparing for their upcoming attendance at the University of Hawaii.
Hyman highlighted a profound concern regarding the emotional toll that such disasters inflict on students. Previous studies have showcased the lasting impact of trauma on young minds, and there are fears of a delayed reaction to the psychological effects of the fires. Hyman is particularly worried that students might, in the coming months, choose not to pursue their educational goals due to the impacts of their trauma.
In response, CAP is adapting its strategies and doubling down on its commitment to aiding their community. Rather than expand into new regions, they are refocusing their efforts on supporting Pasadena and Altadena families, establishing a network of peer counseling that incorporates trauma-informed practices to address the emergent needs of the community.
As CAP continues its foundational mission to prepare underserved students for a successful college journey, it remains steadfast amid adversity. Since its inception in 2006, the program’s focus has always been on bridging the educational gap in the Pasadena area. Their initiatives have positively influenced countless students, with around 98% of seniors benefiting from the program advancing to postsecondary education.
Now, as Alejandra looks to the future and plans her studies in ultrasound technology at Cypress College, she reflects on the support she received from CAP. With a renewed sense of purpose and confidence, she attributes her growth and resilience to the dedicated staff who have guided her through one of the toughest chapters of her life. "I love this program so much," Alejandra shared. "They've been incredibly supportive and helped me regain my footing."
The Road Ahead
While recovery from the Eaton Fire is ongoing, the resilience shown by the community and organizations like CAP exemplifies the strength found in support systems during times of crisis. The journey may be filled with challenges, but with hope, guidance, and collective efforts, the students and families of Pasadena are taking steps toward rebuilding their lives and futures.
Topics People & Culture）
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