Meet Dale Zapata, Communications Manager at ActiveSGV. With a background in event coordination and a passion for sustainable transportation, Dale first connected with ActiveSGV through Metro Bike Share, helping organize bike rides in Pasadena. He later joined the team part-time to support social media and outreach before stepping into a full-time role. Dale is dedicated to addressing climate change, traffic safety, and air quality issues while building strong connections within the community. Whether he’s managing communications, organizing events, or out on a bike ride, Dale plays a key role in sharing ActiveSGV’s mission and engaging with the San Gabriel Valley. Learn more about Dale in his own words below!
How did you get started working at ActiveSGV?
Several years ago, I was an event coordinator for Metro Bike Share and first collaborated with ActiveSGV on a few bike rides in the Pasadena area during Bike Month. In 2022, I joined 626 Golden Streets (now Active Streets) on a part-time, on-call basis to help with social media and outreach, and shortly after, I became a full-time staff member.
What do you like most about working at ActiveSGV?
First and foremost, this is important work. Climate change is real, and issues like traffic violence, air pollution, and extreme weather are worsening in our neighborhoods. I appreciate that ActiveSGV is organized to tackle these issues head-on. Additionally, the workplace culture and my colleagues are amazing, and I look forward to collaborating with them. And finally, I’m especially grateful for the community I get to be a part of. It’s very special. Yes, it’s work, but many people I meet on bike rides, while canvassing, at city hall, or at special events have often become good friends. Some of them were even there when I proposed to my fiancée!
What has been your favorite or most memorable experience with ActiveSGV?
ArroyoFest was the biggest event I’ve had the opportunity to work on. My parents were there, which made it even better. Transforming the Arroyo Parkway into an actual linear parkway was very special, especially for someone who grew up in the area. I want to thank the Active Streets team for their tenacity in organizing and hosting such an ambitious, once-in-a-generation event.
If a friend from out of town were visiting, where in the SGV would you take them and why?
I live in Pasadena, so there is no shortage of places to explore. We are truly blessed. Some great spots include the Rose Bowl, Desiderio Park, the Lower Arroyo, and Huntington Gardens. Unfortunately, the recent fires have closed or made our local trails dangerous, but those trails have a special place in my heart.
I’ve recently fallen in love with the Emerald Necklace, especially Peck Watershed Conservation Park. I try to bike by the park for some quiet time before or after work!
What are you currently reading, listening to, or watching?
I am currently re-reading some of my favorite authors. I’m reading Thomas Pynchon’s Mason & Dixon, which isn’t light but very entertaining. I’m also listening to the “Just Like Heaven 2025” playlist on Spotify and watching many YouTube videos. I particularly enjoy the Outdoor Boys channel.
