When people see filming in Altadena, they have different reactions ranging from "That's exciting!" to "What an inconvenience!". Understandably, if you're not the one directly benefitting from the filming, you're probably on the less-enthusiastic end of the spectrum.
As someone who bears some of the responsibility for bringing film projects to our community, I am very sensitive to the affect these activities have on our neighborhoods. To that end, last year, I created the Altadena Community Chest; a non-profit 501 (c)(3) whose sole purpose is to collect voluntary donations from film companies doing business in Altadena and then distribute those funds to Altadena-based organizations.
I am proud to report that in just over a year, the Altadena Community Chest has distributed $10,000 to the following groups:
- Arroyos & Foothills Conservancy
- The Altadena Library Foundation
- Altadena Heritage
- Five Acres
- Young & Healthy
- The Altadena Elementary School LEARNS program
- Altadena Historical Society
- Altadena Sheriff Station Fund
- Housing Works
- Altadena Arts Council
- The Altadena Guild of Huntington Memorial Hospital
- Altadena Meals on Wheels
I understand that having to wait an extra minute to go down your street due to filming can be irritating. I also know that having large trucks parked in front of your home might be seen as an eyesore. But I'm hopeful that by knowing how many people/groups are benefitting from the donations made by production companies and homeowners, you will think more positively about the filming here.
If you know of an Altadena-based group that might benefit from the Atladena Community Chest, please contact me so we can consider them. You can email me at russ@altadenacc.org
On another note, if you have a home that you would like to submit for potential filming, please click on the following link:
http://homeshoothome.com/list-your-property
Thanks for your support.
Russ Fega
