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Community Corner

Patch Picks: 5 Local Non-Profits Making a Difference

South Pasadena Patch lets you in on some great community outreaches!

1. Established in 1950, the are a group of tireless volunteers commited to serving the "informational, educational, recreational, and cultural needs of the patrons of the Library and the community at large." The Friends hold restoration concerts, run the library bookstore, and raise funds for technology and book endowment funds. Click to read a South Pasadena Patch article about volunteer Dorothy Cohen and the Friends bookstore. Visit their site for more information.

2. The is committed to "service above self." Their mission states that they are a "united fellowship of men and women gathered in South Pasadena who contribute time, talent and leadership to enhance health, welfare and education in our community and beyond." The Rotary Club hosts fundraisers, dinners, outreaches and clinics throughout South Pasadena. Visit their site for more information.

3. The Vecinos de South Pasadena are a group of local residents committed to advancing the education of Hispanic families and promoting Latino culture in South Pas, according to Vecinos'  presdient Olga Aguilar. "Vecinos" means neighbors in Spanish, and neighbors are exactly what this non-profit is all about. One of their efforts comes in the form of raising funds and providing local scholarships. Read Patch's coverage of their group

Find out what's happening in South Pasadenawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

4. Another important cultural organization in town is the , which also emphasizes education and offers scholarships to students each year. The group, previously led by board member Joseph Loo, recently chose a new President, , a parent of two South Pas elementary school students, and an . The group also organizes volunteer activities, such as feeding the homeless at Pasadena's Union Station every month. Click to see photos from the most recent volunteer event.

5. Another popular service organization in South Pasadena is the Kiwanis Club, which includes many dedicated civic and community leaders. The group holds many volunteer activities throughout the year, and recently coordinated a business district clean-up event, "Kiwanis Pitches In." Click to see photos of that event. Recent speakers at the weekly Kiwanis Club luncheon include and . In March, the group will hold a  to benefit local organizations. Click here to visit the group's Facebook page.

Find out what's happening in South Pasadenawith free, real-time updates from Patch.

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