Saffron Circle is a group of multi-generational, multi-ethnic Asians committed to creating positive social change in the greater Boston Asian community. Members come together to support social change by pooling resources, sharing talents, and learning about issues and giving opportunities. Each member has the opportunity to participate in grant making and in developing the giving circle. Saffron Circle currently has over 30 members and is a donor-advised fund at the Boston Foundation.
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2016 Saffron Circle Grantees
Asian Community Development Corporation (ACDC) was founded in 1987 to develop affordable housing and complementary services for Asian American communities. ACDC received a $5,000 grant to replicate its Chinatown Housing Counseling and Civic Engagement programming for the growing Asian community in Malden.
Josiah Quincy Orchestra Program (JQOP) provides a weekly orchestral instruction to positively impact students, their families, and the community. JQOP received a $10,000 grant to provide financial aid for students who cannot afford the full cost of the music education program, which emphasizes leadership development and mentoring.
Southeast Asian Coalition of Central Massachusetts (SEAC) is based in Worcester and helps Southeast Asians thrive and become significant contributors to the greater community. SEAC received a $10,000 grant for its Immigrant Small Business/Entrepreneur Support Program, which assists English Language Learner (ELL) immigrants in sewing to improve their skills, make business plans, and make connections with mentors.
Vietnamese American Civic Association (VACA) promotes family self-sufficiency and well-being among the Vietnamese community of Greater Boston. VACA received a $9,000 grant to support the Civic Assistance and Engagement Project in Dorchester, which will provide the Vietnamese community assistance and workshops on voting, selective service, and citizenship applications.