Cassandra W.

I am consistently driven and motivated towards my passions of public health and community. I am constantly striving to better myself and the people around me.

Why This Work Matters

I believe everyone deserves support that feels genuine and respectful, especially during a crisis. Their values match how I naturally care for others.

On culturally responsive care: To me, it means respecting each family’s background, values, and community ties. It’s about listening without assumptions, offering support that fits their

culture and needs, and working alongside the community rather than over it.

Connection to Altadena

I connect to Altadena through spending time in the community and getting to know its people, small businesses, and outdoor spaces. I’ve always appreciated how welcoming and down-to-earth the area feels, and I’ve learned a lot about the community’s culture by being present and listening.

Meaningful tradition: I remember growing up in Southern California and visiting Altadena often and it breaks my heart the tragedy that happened due to the fires.

In my work: Altadena has a legacy of diversity, resilience, and community care, and I try to bring those same values into my work. I show up with respect, cultural awareness, and a commitment to supporting families in a way that honors their history and strengths.

A Defining Moment

There were times growing up where my family struggled through a few crises and we had so much support from our family members, friends, and community. I remember how much it meant

to my parents and I don’t think we would have bounced back as well as we did without it and I want to give other families that same support and opportunity.

How this shapes my work: Seeing how much our community’s support helped my family taught me how powerful it is when people don’t have to go through crises alone. It made me want to be that steady, caring presence for others. Now, I want to show up for families with patience, empathy, and the understanding that even small support can make a huge difference in how someone recovers.

Vision for the Future

My hope for Altadena: I hope to help as many families as I can in their journey to recovery so that Altadena can rebuild a new space as a strong, connected community.

What I hope families feel: I hope families walk away feeling understood, cared for, and supported. Most of all, I want them to feel less overwhelmed and know someone was truly there

for them during this hard time.

Bringing to the Work

Strengths: I’m calm under pressure, a good listener, and someone people naturally feel

comfortable with. I’m organized, dependable, and committed to making sure families get the

help they need. Culturally, I’m very open-minded and respectful, and I always try to understand

where people are coming from.

On collaboration: Being part of this network means having a team that cares deeply about

people and works together to make a real impact. It will feel meaningful to be surrounded by

others who share the same purpose and want to lift up families and communities.

Beyond the Work

What brings me joy: I love all kinds of sports. My favorite sports to watch are baseball and

hockey, but I love to participate in cross-country skiing, volleyball, and soccer. I also love going

to the gym and hiking. I also enjoy eating new foods, either by cooking myself or going out to a

new restaurant.

Favorite genres: Rom-Com

When not volunteering: I am working nights at an oncology lab helping patients get their

diagnoses.

Fun fact: I love building custom keyboards.

Words I live by: "“I can do hard things”