The Asian Cultural and Educational Society USA (ACAESUSA) Conference was successfully held in Washington, D.C., and virtually on June 27-28, 2024. The conference, themed "Bridging Cultures, Empowering Future," aimed to promote cultural understanding, empower youth, facilitate networking, and inspire positive change.(For more details about the conference, please visit the ACAESUSA website. https://acaesusa.org/acaesusa-conference)
The Asian Cultural and Educational Conference thrived thanks to the dedication of the ACAES Conference Preparation Committee members and volunteers. As a community partner of UCA, we are particularly grateful for the commitment of Mrs. Sharon Chang, a founding member of United Chinese Americans (UCA) and a member of the UCA Community Foundation (UCACF) Executive and Review Committees. Mrs. Chang's presence throughout the conference infused the students with encouragement. She actively participated in the awards ceremony, celebrating the young participants' achievements, and provided guidance for their future philanthropic efforts.
The UCA Community Foundation’s commitment to empowering the Chinese American community extends beyond this conference. They offer vital financial assistance through microgrants ranging from $500 to $5,000, specifically targeting innovative and impactful initiatives. These projects encompass civic engagement, mental health support, cultural heritage preservation, and youth development. Additionally, the UCA Community Foundation recognizes the importance of fostering understanding and building bridges between the Chinese American and American communities, a critical effort in combating hate crimes.
To be eligible for a UCA Community Foundation grant, projects must be sponsored by a 501(c)(3) local community organization and align with the Foundation's mission. Projects with significant and broad social impact are prioritized. The UCA Community Foundation champions innovative and creative approaches that hold the potential to generate positive social change on a large scale.
We were deeply honored to have Mrs. Chang address the conference and share her encouraging words with both children and parents. The UCA Community Foundation’s unwavering commitment and support are a testament to the power of philanthropy in enriching lives and building a stronger community.
As the president of the Asian Culture and Education Society, Jan Xie, said, "We are immensely grateful for the unwavering support and dedication of our volunteers and the UCA Community Foundation (UCACF). Your tireless efforts and commitment have been instrumental in making the Asian Cultural and Educational Conference a resounding success. The enthusiasm and hard work of each volunteer, combined with UCACF's generous support and guidance, have created an inspiring and enriching experience for all participants. Together, we have fostered a spirit of community, learning, and cultural celebration that will have a lasting impact. Thank you for your invaluable contributions, and we look forward to continuing our partnership and achieving even greater milestones in the future."
