Support The Miller Family After Fire Loss

My name is Clarissa Miller and I was born and raised in Altadena. We are reaching out with heavy hearts to share the same devastating news with so many other families of the recent loss our family has suffered. We are incredibly fortunate and grateful that while our house still stands, the fire has taken away so much that is irreplaceable.

My dad's entire studio, containing 50 years of artwork, tools, and materials, is gone. The fire also consumed all our outbuildings, including storage sheds and the playhouse my dad built me for my 8th birthday. Family heirlooms, my dad's collection of his own handmade and vintage costumes, antique handmade European costumes, rare books, photo albums, my mom's few AMAN and Westwind costumes, and ALL of her kids’ costumes and props, and dance instruction supplies have been reduced to ashes. These were not just things; they were pieces of our history, told the story of our lives and identity, built and collected through years of hard work, love, and memories.

My mom has been a Teaching Artist for over 30 years, much of that time with Pasadena Unified School District. She has instructed historical folk dance and cultural traditions to thousands of students of all ages, seamlessly integrating thematic choreography into theatrical productions for elementary through college students. Her passion for art and culture has touched so many lives. Her tools, resources and materials are gone.

Like every home in Altadena, my parents have poured their hearts and souls into creating a place that has been our haven. They had literally laid every brick and every piece of wood for fences and gates by their hands creating the most magically place to grow up and call my home. Losing my dad's studio feels like losing a part of our family’s soul and livelihood. These funds will assist with needs that might not be covered by other sources of aid. Your help will allow us to address the many aspects of recovery and support our family through this crisis.

Our neighborhood is devastated. While our home is one of the few on our block that survived, our greater community in Altadena has been leveled. The devastation is vast, as you may have seen on the news. Our lovely Altadena will never be the same, and the loss feels immeasurable. We are gutted.

No amount is too small, and every contribution means the world to us. Even if you’re unable to donate, sharing this message with others who might be able to help would be a tremendous gift.

We are endlessly grateful and thank you from the bottom of our hearts.

With love and gratitude,

Clarissa Miller