Emerging from the aftermath of the devastating Los Angeles wildfires, a remarkable initiative known as Altadena Girls, spearheaded by 15-year-old Avery Colvert, has evolved into a permanent haven for adolescent girls. The transition from middle school to high school is a significant life event for any teenager, but Avery's journey has been further shaped by the profound experience of witnessing her community's resilience in the face of natural disaster. She reflects on the past year as a period of immense personal growth, where she has transformed profoundly while retaining her core identity.
Following the destructive Eaton Canyon Fire, which ravaged North Los Angeles and left many of her peers without homes or schools, Avery mobilized her resources to establish Altadena Girls. This nascent organization served as a vital distribution point, specifically catering to the needs of teen girls striving to recover from the inferno. Leveraging her connections to Hollywood, Avery even enlisted the support of celebrity stylists to offer their expertise, helping young women regain a sense of normalcy and confidence through fashion and personal care. The success of this initial endeavor laid the groundwork for a more lasting impact within the community.
Today, Altadena Girls stands as a firmly established community fixture. Co-founded by Avery and her mother, Lauren Sandidge, the organization officially unveiled its first permanent physical location in Pasadena's Old Town on International Day of the Girl, October 11th. This dedicated space continues Avery's original vision of supporting teen girls by offering a free boutique stocked with clothing and hygiene products, emphasizing 'dignity-first' essentials like feminine hygiene supplies. Beyond meeting basic needs, the center provides a crucial 'third space'—a sanctuary distinct from home and school. Collaborations with partners like Fender, which helped create a music studio and podcast area, and Paris Hilton, who sponsored a 'Sliving Lounge,' further enrich the center's offerings, providing diverse avenues for self-expression, creativity, and quiet study. The aim is to create an environment where girls can simply be themselves, find solace, and discover new passions, fostering a sense of well-being and belonging.
The inspiring story of Altadena Girls highlights the profound impact that youth-led initiatives can have on community recovery and empowerment. Avery's dedication, born from personal experience and a desire to uplift her peers, demonstrates that even in the face of adversity, compassion and vision can create lasting positive change. This center serves not only as a place for material support but also as a hub for mental and emotional healing, proving that a supportive environment is crucial for fostering resilience and helping young individuals thrive.