Building Skills, Confidence, and Community Through Partnership
The Pasadena ReStore is more than a place to shop for affordable furniture, home goods, and building materials. Beyond its daily operations, the ReStore creates meaningful opportunities for individuals to gain valuable experience, develop workplace skills, and build connections within their community.
San Gabriel Valley Habitat for Humanity and the Pasadena ReStore were recently recognized by The Roland Center at the 15th Annual Inland Empire Caucus for a community partnership supporting individuals with disabilities through hands-on workplace experiences.
The partnership began in May 2026, when SGV Habitat’s Community Outreach Manager Adrian and Volunteer Coordinator Victoria connected with Monica Huguez, Employment Specialist Clerk at The Roland Center, and her team. Since then, the Pasadena ReStore has welcomed several participants, providing opportunities to strengthen workplace skills, build confidence, and gain valuable experience in a welcoming and supportive environment.
The impact of this partnership goes beyond learning workplace skills. Pasadena ReStore Sales Associate Everett, who works closely with ReStore volunteers, shared how the volunteers became increasingly comfortable and confident during their time at the store. What began as a new experience gradually became an opportunity to build relationships, engage with staff, and come out of their shells.
At the recognition ceremony, Victoria proudly accepted 14 awards on behalf of SGV Habitat and the Pasadena ReStore, celebrating the dedication and teamwork that have helped make this partnership successful.
We are grateful to The Roland Center for this recognition and continued partnership, and to our Pasadena ReStore team for creating an inclusive and supportive environment. A special thank you to Everett for sharing his experience and helping highlight the positive impact of this collaboration.
Through partnerships like this, SGV Habitat continues to extend its impact beyond building and repairing homes, helping create a stronger, more connected, and inclusive community where everyone has the opportunity to learn, grow, and thrive.
