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"As a first-generation Chinese immigrant who has built a life in the United States, I have lived, studied, and worked on this land long enough to begin calling it home. Over the past decade of community service, I’ve witnessed the pressures faced by Asian families, youth, and elders as they navigate cultural differences, unfamiliar systems, and complex identities. These stories helped me understand something deeply: some forms of support are urgently needed; some struggles remain unseen; and some voices need someone to amplify them.
In 2024, I came across UCA WAVES. What I found there was a rare sincerity—an organization willing to talk about mental health, willing to confront the silence and stigma that have long existed within the Asian American community, and willing to create a safe space for our people in the face of prejudice, shame, and systemic barriers. This is especially true for AAPI youth. They carry academic pressure, family expectations, and cultural conflicts, all while facing stereotypes and misunderstandings from larger society.
Many young people feel anxious, isolated, and unsure how to ask for help. WAVES plays a vital role here—extending a hand that listens, understands, and accompanies. This is why I choose to contribute and volunteer. Within WAVES, I see not just “services,” but a way to help people regain their strength; not just “activities,” but opportunities for rebuilding community bonds; not just “advocacy,” but a commitment to paving the way for the next generation.
Recently, I had lunch with Lily, the Executive Director and Founder of WAVES. And as you might expect, lunch with Lily is never just lunch—you always bring home a renewed sense of purpose. That day she asked me, “Angel, would you be willing to share why you volunteer with WAVES?” I laughed, but in my heart I already knew: if I can offer even a small part of my time and abilities to support the community, then it is absolutely worth it. I volunteer with WAVES because I believe when a community learns to care for one another, our children can grow up with more peace; when more people are willing to listen, our elders feel less alone; when we work together, Asian Americans can live with greater safety, dignity, and strength.
This is my volunteer’s voice. I hope more people will join us—to light every small, meaningful lamp for our community."
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