A pair of South Pasadena luminaries will be in the limelight Monday, August 18, when the Senior Citizens Foundation of South Pasadena recognizes longtime residents Ellen Torres and Sam Hernandez, who continue to make a positive impact, a lasting difference and contribute to the betterment of the local community.
Torres and Hernandez will receive esteemed Champions Awards in the South Pasadena Senior Center for, what else, championing local causes and initiatives that elevate the city’s reputation. Festivities get underway at 5 p.m.
Now in its fourth year, the South Pasadena Champions Awards honor individuals whose decades of voluntary service have significantly shaped the city and all its goodness. Organizers also say the annual tribute is designed to introduce those in attendance to the South Pasadena Senior Center and its fundraising arm, The Senior Citizens’ Foundation of South Pasadena, a 100% volunteer-led nonprofit launched back in 2006.
Torres has devoted more than 35 years to tirelessly working with youth and supporting education in South Pasadena. She has held leadership roles in the PTA –locally, district-wide, and at the state level – as well been actively involved with the Girl Scouts, Cub Scouts, AYSO, National Charity League, Friends of the South Pasadena Library, and the Tournament of Roses. Her efforts have helped improve student programs, community events, and volunteer initiatives that nourish the fabric of the city.
“I’m truly honored to be recognized by the South Pasadena Senior Center and the Senior Citizen’s Foundation for my volunteer work throughout the city,” said Torres. “It’s incredibly rewarding to know that my efforts have had a positive impact, and I’m grateful to be part of a tradition that celebrates lifelong engagement and contribution. South Pasadena is such a special place, and I feel lucky to be part of it. Volunteering has introduced me to so many amazing people and experience. It’s been as rewarding for me as I hope it’s been helpful to others.”
Hernandez has been a steadfast advocate for civic traditions that define South Pasadena. His efforts tied to Little League, the Festival of Balloons Fourth of July Parade, and the South Pasadena Tournament of Roses Association reflect his deep-rooted passion for helping others. Further, he has served on municipal bodies including the Public Works Commission, and Chamber of Commerce influencing policy and infrastructure development with thoughtful community-minded leadership. And he does it not seeking attention, instead quietly working behind the scenes with no fanfare.
During a spirited preview of their upcoming honor, Torres and Hernandez rode in a white Ford Mustang convertible during the city’s annual Festival of Balloons Parade on Independence Day, cheered on by friends, neighbors and parade-goers as a way to spotlight their myriad contributions. It symbolized not only their recognition, but gratitude from many thankful for their efforts over time.
In 1954, Hernandez moved to Pasadena, settled in South Pasadena in 1985, met the love of his life – Corlyn – in 1991 and has been in the same residence on Indiana Avenue in the city since 1996.
Sam is not kidding when he insists he never saw the Champions Awards acclaim coming, saying: “This is overwhelming. I was really taken back with this honor. And for the first time to ride down the Festival of Balloons Parade, damn it I’m so used to walking in it with SPLL (South Pasadena Little League) or holding a banner because I ran out of Boy Scouts. I guess they’ve run out of seniors, so they pick on two young kids. Please understand that I’m taken back by this, but it’s not about me, it really is all the support I’ve had over the last 25-plus years from our community. They should be the honoree. Without them I would not be receiving this honor.”
Torres and Hernandez are joining high profile company. Those receiving the coveted distinction in the past include Bob Joe and Granville Thurman in 2022 when it all kicked off, Sally Kilby and the late Ellen Daigle in 2023, and Glen Duncun and Anita Scott a year ago.
The excitement of Fourth of July going down Mission Street, in the spotlight, was an experience neither Sam or Ellen will ever forget. “It was an incredible experience!” Torres recalled. “Riding in the South Pasadena Festival of Balloons Parade was so much fun. The energy, the crowds, and the community spirit were unforgettable. I especially loved seeing all my family and friends gather together along the route. Their cheers and smiles made the day even more special.”
As a lifelong South Pasadenan, Torres, no stranger to such outings, was given the opportunity to ride atop South Pasadena’s float entry in the Rose Parade when she was a high school senior. She later became an integral part of the yearly entry, making it a ritual in lending a hand.
“Over the years, I’ve helped decorate the float, supported volunteers, and started the Crunch Time Party, a fun fundraising tradition that brings everyone together during those ‘crunch days’ of the float,” she added, referring to the year-end fundraising dinner/auction at the War Memorial Building in those final days when the float is nearing completion.
It’s much more than an awards night when the Torres and Hernandez will be given their rightful distinctive honor at the Champions Awards dinner. It’s a community gathering that fosters a deep appreciation for individuals committed to dedicating oneself to the betterment of others.
And in playing a vital role in that endeavor, Hernandez and Torres are true champions whose legacy will continue to inspire the lives of those in South Pasadena.
“The Foundation is honored to celebrate Ellen and Sam’s service to South Pasadena,” said Alexandria Levitt, president of the Board of the Senior Citizens Foundation of South Pasadena. “Throughout their years in town, they have shown over and over a dedication to the organizations that give South Pasadena its unique spirit. We are fortunate to live in such a place where these values are important and proud to celebrate the accomplishments of folks like Ellen and Sam who make it possible.”
The South Pasadena Senior Center is at 1102 Oxley Street in the city. For ticket information, go to spsenior.org.
