Assistance League, founded in California, is the first nonprofit, nonpolitical, nonsectarian organization founded in the West to recognize the potential of volunteers helping those less fortunate to a better, more meaningful life.  The first chapter began in Los Angeles in 1919.  As the area grew, more chapters were formed.  To support the growing number of chapters, National Assistance League was organized in 1936 and incorporated in 1949. From this modest beginning, Assistance League has grown to 120 chapters with over 22,000 members throughout the United States.

Highlights of the Pasadena chapter of Assistance League include:

 Founded in 1936 and chartered in 1941 as the 6th chapter of Assistance League

Started the Book Review Series fundraiser in 1945

 Opened Craft Fair Gift Shop in 1955 to showcase hand-crafted items made by seniors

 Built the California House building in 1965 to house Craft Fair Gift Shop, program facilities, meeting rooms and volunteer offices

 Opened Treasure Fair Thrift Shop in 1977 to raise funds for Assistance League of Pasadena’s philanthropic programs and to serve the community

 Launched Operation School Bell® program in 1990 to clothe disadvantaged school children in the Pasadena Unified School District

 Established the Assault Survivor Kits® program in 1995 to provide a change of clothing and personal care items to assault survivors

 Celebrated the 75th anniversary of Assistance League of Pasadena in January 2016

Created the ALP SNAP! program in 2017 to better serve the community

Developed the School Supplies for Success program in 2018 to supplement Operation School Bell®