AAPIPAAPIP

The Public Safety of Asian American and Pacific Islander Women

For Immediate Release: Mar 16, 2022 Contact: New York, NY –  As we mark one year since the horrific …

A Celebratory Moment

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AAPIP is honored and grateful to be among 286 organizations to receive a generous gift from MacKenzie Scott and her …

Pat Eng, AAPIP President & CEO, Reflects On Atlanta-area Shootings (CNN)

AAPIP’s President and CEO, Pat Eng, is interviewed by Brooke Baldwin on CNN Newsroom. Pat shares reflections and insights on the recent murder of 8 people – 6 of whom were Asian women – at three Atlanta-area spas, and offers paths forward from this senseless violence and hate targeting Asian Americans. This violence comes at a heightened time during the coronavirus pandemic and astronomical rise in reported hate and violence targeted at the Asian American communities.

Making Cents Of The Senseless

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The recent spate of senseless violence against Asian American seniors in the Bay Area wearily reminds us that the re-surfacing …

Philanthropy, Is This Us?

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Watching a nationally coordinated mob of white supremacists violently storm the Capitol just days into 2021 hardly warrants a cheery …

AAPIP Statement on COVID-19

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Dear Philanthrofolk,

As the news surrounding COVID-19, or “coronavirus”, continues to flood the web and our screens, our sector springs into action to protect the safety and well-being of our employees, colleagues, and grantee partners. Philanthropy is asking important questions…

Webinar Recap: 2020 Census and Beyond

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View the recording and slides for the illuminating discussion on 2020 Census efforts and gaps in AAPI communities led by Karthick Ramakrishnan, Founder and Director of AAPI Data, Karen Narasaki, consultant to the Bauman Foundation, and Christine Chen, Founder and Director of APIA Vote!

President’s Message

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Dear Colleagues,

On September 3rd, 2019, I had the tremendous honor of becoming President and CEO of Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP). I am deeply grateful to follow a distinguished line of AAPIP’s leaders on whose shoulders I now stand, determined to leverage the legacies gifted to us by many generations of leaders across movements that have led the arc toward justice. I take on this role, inspired by the extended AAPIP community past, present, and future, ready and eager to roll up our collective sleeves, together with our many allies, at this very moment in time…

2020: The Final Decade of the “Model Minority” Myth – A Perspective From Brandon Hadi, AAPIP’s Social Justice Fellow

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In the short time that I have been involved with AAPIP, I have seen some bright and dark spots in this country’s philanthropic sector. The field of philanthropy has made strides toward advancing racial equity thanks to the tireless work of many, especially womxn of color and allies. As we all look to the future, which is ours to shape, I’d like to consider the 2020s as the final decade the philanthropic sector subscribes to stereotypes of any racialized group, and specifically, to unsubscribe from harmful “model minority” narratives imposed on Asians…

TALK STORY: Nearly Thirty

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By: Richard Woo, CEO, The Russell Family Foundation It’s been nearly 30 years since AAPIP was founded and held its …

Remembering Mayor Ed Lee

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AAPIP is shocked and deeply saddened by the passing of Mayor Ed Lee. We send our condolences to his family …

The Search

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By Wing Li, Senior Manager for Operations, Grantmakers for Effective Organizations I’ll be honest – when I entered the philanthropic …

Serving the AAPI community in the Greater Boston region

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AAPIP believes that philanthropy has a responsibility and role in fostering a thriving civil society by meeting urgent needs and investing in our collective future. As part of a rapidly changing philanthropic landscape, philanthropists of giving circles are contributing to the increasing and enduring investment in AAPI communities and issues. Sara Tian, co-chair of Saffron Circle’s grantmaking committee, shares her story.

Dallas is More Than Cowboy Hats

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AAPIP believes that philanthropy has a responsibility and role in fostering a thriving civil society by meeting urgent needs and investing in our collective future. As part of a rapidly changing philanthropic landscape, philanthropists of giving circles are contributing to the increasing and enduring investment in AAPI communities and issues. Caren K. Lock of the Orchid Giving Circle in Dallas, TX, shares her story.

Flipping Philanthropy

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Mary Keovisai is a member of Lacuna Giving Circle, Ph.D. student, and sleep aficionado.

We are Philanthropy

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Dr. Stephanie Kripa Cooper-Lewter is the founding visionary behind Roshni, Lost Sarees National Women’s Giving Circle and serves as the National Founding Chair.

Cynthia Choi, VP Philanthropic Partnerships, Stepping Down

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OAKLAND, February 9, 2016 – Asian Americans / Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP) today announced that Cynthia Choi, Vice President, Philanthropic Partnerships, will be stepping down on February 15, 2016 to pursue other opportunities.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Kelly D. Chau

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Kelly D. Chau, Ph.D. is the Director of Wellness Services at Asian Americans for Community Involvement (AACI). She is involved in the development and management of community-based programs that integrate research, health and wellness, addiction recovery services, and behavioral health services to promote healthy independence, healthy lifestyle, enhance functioning and safety from a culturally competent and respectful perspective.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Paul Watanabe

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Dr. Paul Y. Watanabe is currently Associate Professor of Political Science and Director of the Institute for Asian American Studies at the University of Massachusetts Boston. He was recently appointed by President Obama to serve on the President’s Advisory Commission on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Kayva Yang

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Kayva Yang brings 15 years of experience in the philanthropic and nonprofit sector working to ensure communities thrive with resources, support and a platform for their voices and efforts. She believes in the power of listening and leading authentically to move hearts and minds of whole communities working for social change.

APIs RISE for API LGBTQ Community

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Elaine Abelaye-Mateo is the Principal for Everyday Impact Consulting, whose mission is to build meaningful relationships to create social good. Vince is vice president for University Advancement at California State University, Sacramento. They are both founding members of the APIs RISE Giving Circle.

Activating the Voices of the API LGBTQ Community

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Anjana Sundaram is a Data Officer at the Bill and Melinda Gates Foundation, and Shiho Fuyuki is the Member Services Manager, Mission Investors Exchange. They are AAPIP Seattle’s chapter co-chairs.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Karthick Ramakrishnan

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Karthick Ramakrishnan is professor of public policy and political science at the University of California, Riverside. He also directs the National Asian American Survey and is founder of AAPIdata.com, which seeks to make policy-relevant data on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders more accessible to a variety of audiences.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Joy Messinger

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Joy Messinger is a facilitator, sought-after speaker and educator, and independent nonprofit consultant with graduate degrees in social work and public health and a background in sexuality education, youth development, reproductive justice, adoptee issues, and LGBTQ and Asian American community building.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Romana Lee-Akiyama

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Romana is responsible for leading the grantmaking initiatives of WOMEN’S WAY, including overseeing the Community Women’s Fund and WOMEN’S WAY Action Partners portfolios, as well as managing a technical assistance program for funded agencies.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Dana Kawaoka-Chen

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Dana Kawaoka-Chen serves as the Network Director for the Bay Area Justice Funders Network. She is the network’s inaugural and sole staff liaison to the five-person steering committee, which provides the strategic direction for the network.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Sharon Maeda

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Sharon Maeda is the founder of the Youth Media Institute and is currently a Trustee of the Harborview Medical Center, Public Radio Satellite Trust and the Seattle Immigrant & Refugee Voting Rights Task Force.

Conversation with 25 Leaders in Action: Dae Joong “DJ” Yoon

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Dae Joong “DJ” Yoon is the current Executive Director of the National Korean American Service & Education Consortium (NAKASEC) and president of the Korean Resource Center, and serves as a member of the Board of Directors for Strategic Concept in Organizing and Policy Education (SCOPE)

We’re Better Together

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By Noelle Ito, Senior Director of Communty Philanthropy In 2003, AAPIP began developing and supporting Giving Circles in the AANHPI …

The Long Road to Recovery: Providing Relief for Victims of the Nepal Earthquake

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Our hearts go out to those who were struck by the earthquake that struck Nepal on Saturday, April 25. During times like these, it is difficult to stand aside and watch relief aid swoop into action. While our organizational priorities focus on what occurs within API communities in the United States, we acknowledge that various streams of movement – be it communication or people – make our world feel smaller. We also know that many Nepalese Americans have family in Nepal, and are working to help them from abroad. We stand with our Nepalese brothers and sisters, and want to extend our help in any way possible.

Giving Back, Giving Together

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Check out the Giving Circle’s contribution to Indie Philanthropy. Originally posted on 10/15/2014.  Giving Back, Giving Together Tell us about AAPIP’s …

Moving From Crisis to Community Building

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After over four years at AAPIP, Laila Mehta has stepped down as the director of the Civic Engagement Fund. AAPIP will continue its commitment to AMEMSA communities as part of its advocacy efforts for increased investments in under-resourced communities.

Living and Learning a Legacy

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Tracy Nguyen is the Community Organizer for API Equality – Northern California and a volunteer for Asian and Pacific Islander Queer …

Flash Giving

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Sharing the best practices and lessons-learned arising out of our National Giving Circle Campaign: Flash Giving At the 2013 National …

Equality is not Equity

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Nicole Kyauk, (CAP®), is a Philanthropic Advisor at the East Bay Community Foundation and Co-Chair of the San Francisco Bay …

What Do We Stand For?

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Dana Kawaoka-Chen is the Network Director for the Bay Area Justice Funders Network.  She is an active member of the AAPIP-SV chapter and LOTUS …

Reflections from the 2014 Annual Membership Meeting

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Anjana Sundaram is a co-chair of the Seattle Puget Sound Chapter of the Asian Americans Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP), along with Elisa Del Rosario and Shiho Fuyuki. She is a research analyst at the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, where she is actively involved with Gates Asians in Philanthropy (GAP). Views are her own.

My First Annual Membership Meeting

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Christen Lee is Western Regional Coordinator for Emerging Practitioners in Philanthropy and Advisor with Kordant Philanthropy Advisors. She is co-chair …

Message from the Board Chair

At today’s annual membership meeting, Peggy announced her plans to step down as President and Executive Director of AAPIP at …

Preparing for Tomorrow

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Each individual has an obligation to help the next generation of young people, to help guide them, to help point …

New York Happenings

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With the upcoming annual meeting in New York, here’s a small taste of the larger universe of what’s happening in and around the Big Apple.

AAPIP Giving Circles in the News

We are tremendously proud of our giving circle leaders. Read and listen to feature stories and mentions of the impact of their work on community and philanthropy.

Convenings, Connections and Collaborations

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The Civic Engagement Fund builds community and organizational connections.


Reflections on CEF’s final convening and what this moment marks from 3 participants: Laila Mehta, Raeshma Rizvi, Sabiha Basrai.

Meetings with Meaning: Interview with Peggy Saika

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We invite our members, supporters, and key allies to join us for two milestone gatherings in 2014:


Annual Membership Meeting – Ford Foundation, April 25
JAG 20th Anniversary UNITY Summit – Washington DC, June 6-8

We asked Peggy Saika, President & Executive Director of AAPIP, to share more about these momentous events.

In First Place…

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To celebrate the impact of our growing National Giving Circle Network, our Facebook page featured photos and stories from our …

In Second Place…

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To celebrate the impact of our growing National Giving Circle Network, our Facebook page featured photos and stories from our 31 Circles for …

In Third Place…

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To celebrate the impact of our growing National Giving Circle Network, our Facebook page featured photos and stories from our 31 Circles for …

Reflections from 2013 Giving Circle Convening

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Maya Okamoto is a founding member of Changing Our Community, a Los Angeles-based youth giving circle. She is kind enough to share with us her experience attending AAPIP’s National Giving Circle Convening with several of her fellow giving circle members on September 20 and 21 in Chicago.

A Philadelphia Story: Leveraging Our Collective Assets

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N. Nina Ahmad is an AAPIP Board Member and The Philadelphia Foundation Trustee, Chair of the Mayor’s Commission on Asian American Affairs, founder and advisory committee member of the Asian Mosaic Fund.

We recently talked with her about the community and philanthropic landscape in Philadelphia.

Celebrating 10 Years with Asian Giving Circle in Chicago

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Serena Moy, Co-founder, Asian Giving Circle, Chicago

What an amazing evening! Over 120 people came to Chicago to help the Asian Giving Circle celebrate its 10th Anniversary! I am so proud to be part of this national giving circle movement. Ten years ago we could never have imagined our local efforts would spark a movement of 31 Giving Circles that have collectively given over $1.4 million to over 240 AAPI organizations!

AAPIPers in the News!

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We are tremendously proud of our staff, members, giving circle leaders, and community partners. Read and listen to feature stories and mentions of the impact of their work on community and philanthropy.

AAPI LGBTs and Social Justice: Walking New Paths

Ben de Guzman, Co-Director of NQAPIA


When congratulated by supporters of marriage equality in the offices of the Senators we visited, we politely said thank you, and gracefully moved the conversation back to immigration. In doing so, we prove the movement can (and must) walk and chew gum at the same time.

The Trust Fires Up Support for Local AAPI Communities

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Alex Wong, Community Philanthropy Manager


In celebration of the Asian Giving Circle’s 10th Anniversary, we feature an excerpt from an interview with Janice Atkins Washington, Coordinator of Donor Services, and Bob Eichinger, Director of Donor Services, of The Chicago Community Trust, the fiscal host of the Asian Giving Circle.

Immigrant Youth Rising

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Charles Sanchez, Dream Summer Intern


AAPIP partnered with the UCLA Labor Center to provide a unique space for undocumented young adults and allies to build relationships, develop professional skills, and amplify the voices of the API community for fair and just immigration policies. Through AAPIP’s work, the amount of API interns in the program more than tripled!

Creating A Movement of Strong Leaders

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Cynthia Choi, Deputy Director

Irene Hirano Inouye always knew she wanted to dedicate her life to public service and to ensure the needs of diverse communities are met. As she puts it, “I came of age during a time when I was trying to understand my own family’s story of being incarcerated during WWII.

Witnessing a Movement

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Laila Mehta, Director, Civic Engagement Fund

In July, I had the privilege of attending the National Queer Asian Pacific Islander Alliance’s (NQAPIA) leadership summit for leaders of lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender (LGBT) Asian American, South Asian, Southeast Asian, and Pacific Islander (AAPI) organizations.

AAPIPers in Denver for our annual membership gathering and COF 2010!

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It’s been a burst of activity for us over the course of the last several days in Denver, Colorado–and we’re far from finished. In addition to our yearly Membership Meeting, there was a full slate of programs in partnership with other philanthropic affinity groups and allies, including the Council on Foundations (COF).

Welcome Laila Mehta, AAPIP Civic Engagement Fund Associate Director

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Please join the Board of Directors and Staff of AAPIP in welcoming Laila Mehta as the Associate Director of the Civic Engagement Fund for AMEMSA (Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim and South Asian) Communities.

Learn more about Laila and her thoughts on the shared experiences of AMEMSA and Asian American communities in times of crisis, the focus of our program on June 23, in the video.

AAPIP/NAP Site Session Part 1- La Junta, Koshare Museum & Inspiration

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The AAPIP/NAP (Native Americans in Philanthropy) site session got off to an inspiring start as almost 40 grantmakers and staff set out for Southeast Colorado on the first leg of a journey that will eventually make its way to Amache Internment Camp and the site of the Sand Creek Massacre.

Reflections on Amache & Sand Creek

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We’ve invited Penelope “Penny” Haru Snipper, founding member of AAPIP’s Minnesota Chapter, to share her personal experiences as a participant on our recent Native Americans in Philanthropy & AAPIP joint site session to the Amache Internment Center and the Sand Creek Massacre Site in Colorado.

Board Member Alice Ito’s remarks on cross-cultural partnerships

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At AAPIP’s recent site session to the Amache Internment Camp and the Sand Creek Massacre Site in Colorado, we drew many poignant lessons from linking the experiences of Japanese Americans displaced and interned during World War II and the history of struggle in Native American communities, past and present.

Alice Ito, one of our new Board Members and a long-time AAPIP chapter member, was asked to deliver plenary remarks at the Native Philanthropy Institute on April 24th prior to our site session.

Zahra Billoo & Amardeep Singh speakers at June 2010 DC event!

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AAPIP’s upcoming community reception, program and private viewing of The Art of Gaman Arts and Crafts from the Japanese American Internment Camps, 1942-1946 will serve as a framework to draw on the experiences of Japanese Americans interned during World War II and Arab, Middle Eastern, Muslim and South Asian (AMEMSA) communities in post–9/11 America.

AAPIP’s recent giving circles movement gathering

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Andy Ho, Co-Chair of the AAPIP Metro DC chapter, and co-founder of the Cherry Blossom Giving Circle


Andy shares his perspectives on the convening — as both a participant and as a key individual in helping to shape AAPIP’s early strategies in the growing giving circle movement.

Our Featured Speakers for AAPIP’s National Philanthropy Summit

Ms. Carol Larson and Mr. Gara LaMarche will lead off the Summit program which will include remarks from Danielle M. Reyes, Chair of the Board of Directors for AAPIP and Program Officer, Eugene and Agnes E. Meyer Foundation, as well as from Peggy Saika, President/Executive Director of AAPIP.

What is Building Democratic Philanthropy?

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AAPIP President/Executive Director, Peggy Saika, reflects on AAPIP’s 20 years and how together we can all be part of building democratic philanthropy for a more just and equitable world.

AAPIP’s NGEC OFP Convening – Gender in the Social Justice Movement

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New from AAPIP’s National Gender and Equity Campaign, a guest blog written by Barbara Phillips. She shares her personal reflections and observations about gender in the social justice movement as a participant and guest at a recent NGEC Organizational Fellowship Program convenings.

Outgoing Board Chair Danielle M. Reyes on Building Democratic Philanthropy

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AAPIP would like to take this opportunity to thank Danielle M. Reyes, our outgoing AAPIP Board Chairperson for her years of service. We know she’ll continue to play an integral role through the AAPIP Metro D.C. Chapter and the Cherry Blossom Giving Circle (both of which she was a founder). Check out the link below to the guest blog she wrote for Philanthropy411 that highlighted yesterday’s AAPIP Annual Membership Meeting in Philadelphia and describes AAPIP’s vision for “Building Democratic Philanthropy”

AAPIP’s new board members and officers

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At the 2011 AAPIP Annual Meeting, the AAPIP Board of Directors welcomed four new directors and new executive officers, as well as recognized the contributions of three outgoing directors.

[video] AAPIP Welcomes Tony Luong, US Program Manager for VIET Fellows Program

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We are pleased to welcome Tony Luong as the new US Program Manager of the VIET Fellows Program. He joins AAPIP directly from Vietnam where he was an in-country representative and teacher with Volunteers In Asia. Tony comes to AAPIP with extensive experience working in the Vietnamese American community and in Vietnam

A Historic First: AAPI LGBT Youth at the White House, May 2011

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Alice Y. Hom, Director of Queer Justice Fund

On October 1979 in Washington DC, a number of “firsts” and historic moments happened—lesbian and gay Asian American activists formed a Gay Asian Collective at the Third World Lesbian and Gay conference that happened at the same time as the first March on Washington for Gay Rights. These historic moments organized by people who brought together their politics and the full gamut of their identities of gender, race, sexuality, and class helped build the foundation of queer people of color organizing, movement building, and coalition work.

[video] Queer Justice Fund Goes to The White House

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Alice Y. Hom, Director, Queer Justice Fund

Lesbian, gay, bisexual, and transgender folks typically celebrate Pride Month with marches, parades, and celebrations and one of those celebrations took place on a hot and humid day of June 29 at the White House. As the Director of the Queer Justice Fund, I was invited to attend the LGBT Pride Month Policy Briefing and Reception.

[video] AMEMSA Communities: Ten Years After 9/11, A Funder Dialogue

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Laila Mehta, Director, AAPIP Civic Engagement Fund

On July 14th, AAPIP was pleased to partner with Northern California Grantmakers in convening a special funders dialogue: 10 Years After 9/11: Dialogue on New Opportunities and Continuing Challenges in AMEMSA Communities.

AAPIP Puget Sound welcomes White House Initiative on APIs

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Lyn Hunter, Senior Program Manager, Philanthropy Northwest / Co-Chair, AAPIP Puget Sound Chapter

On July 7, AAPIP Puget Sound co-sponsored a reception welcoming the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI) and Chris Lu, President Obama’s Assistant and Cabinet Secretary to Seattle. Together, we gathered not as individual groups with our own agendas but as a community with a vested stake in sustainability issues particularly in the API community.

The AAPIP Giving Circle Campaign: On the Road with Noelle Ito

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11 giving circles, 7 cities, 1 month and lots of meetings later, I feel fully immersed in AAPIP’s National Giving Circle network. I’ve had the pleasure of meeting all but two of our giving circles and have learned of their strategies, struggles and aspirations.

2011 AAPIP National Convening

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Severe income inequality? An ever-widening gap between the nation’s wealthiest and it’s least, especially among immigrant and refugee communities? Is today’s notion of sacrifice, really ‘shared’? Is this any way to build and sustain a democracy?

And what is philanthropy doing to build the capacity of our communities to ask these questions and build solutions in today’s economy?

[Video] Philanthropy and The Economy: Prioritizing Communities, Not Sacrificing Democracy

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$1.25 per day. According to the World Bank, this is what defines “extreme poverty” – a condition that describes the lives of at least 1.4 billion people, globally.
And with the most severe income inequality in generations and a widening gap between the nation’s wealthiest and its least, especially among immigrant and refugee communities, is this how we build a democracy?

A Path Toward Action

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Kristin Aldana-Taday, Deputy Director of Donor Services for Liberty Hill Foundation

Two weeks ago, I headed to San Francisco for the weekend to co-represent one of Los Angeles’ three giving circles, The Circle of Change. It was a weekend that reinvigorated my commitment to social justice and helped me carve out a path toward action—a path not just for me to follow myself, but one I can travel as part of a larger community.

Giving Circles: Building a Movement of Change

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Allistair Mallillin, Development Associate for United South End Settlements and member of the Saffron Circle

Last weekend, Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy (AAPIP) convened giving circles from around the country in San Francisco. Being a relative newcomer to AAPIP, I thought I had signed up for a free weekend trip with amazing food, not knowing what kind of content would be in store. The quality of food surpassed expectations, but what really resonated was the quality of people.

In particular, two things really stuck out for me during the weekend.

Philanthropy, Giving Circles and a New Generation of Leaders: Reflecting on the AAPIP National Convening

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Kent Wong, Director of UCLA Labor Center

The September 2011 convening in San Francisco was the first AAPIP gathering I had attended, and I was impressed by the spirit and scope of the work. I had the opportunity to bring three leaders of the Dream Act movement to present to the group, and they were so gratified to receive such a warm and supportive reception. It was especially meaningful for them to speak before a national gathering of Asian American community leaders, and to be welcomed by their own community.

A Convening that Keeps on Giving

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Kala Shah, Co-chair of Lunar Giving Circle

In mid-September, AAPIP convened giving circle members and AAPIP leadership in one of the most powerful and motivating events I have ever had the pleasure of attending. I dedicated the majority of my weekend to spend with these fine people based upon my experience from the first national Giving Circle meeting last year, when I came to appreciate the value of bonding with other GC leaders from around the country over the greatness of grassroots giving.

White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders Convenes First Philanthropic Briefing Focused on AAPI Community

Cynthia Choi, Senior Director, Philanthropic Advocacy, AAPIP


On April 2, 2012 the Obama Administration through the White House Initiative on Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders (WHIAAPI) will host the first National Philanthropic Briefing focused on the AAPI community. It is part of the Administration’s efforts to address economic and social challenges facing the AAPI community.

Ford, Kresge and Kellogg Foundations Join In $1M Planning Initiative for AAPI Communities


Last Monday, April 2, at a national briefing in Washington DC convened by The White House, three of the nation’s largest foundations – The Ford Foundation, The Kresge Foundation, and the W.K. Kellogg Foundation – together pledged $1 million to support an exploratory planning process focused on the development of national public-private partnerships to increase philanthropic investment in the Asian American/Pacific Islander (AAPI) community.

Viv Ncaus Giving Circle Wins $3,000 in Winner’s Circle Contest

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In the last two weeks over 4,417 votes were cast for our 17 giving circles in AAPIP’s Winner’s Circle Facebook Contest but only three circles rose to the top of the leader board. Congratulations to Viv Ncaus the winner of $3,000 for their justice and peace fund!

2012 AAPIP Giving Circle Convening: A View From the Starting Line

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Nageeb Sumar, MASALA (Mid-Atlantic South Asians Leveraging Assets) Giving Circle, Washington, DC




I was both informed and inspired by the 2012 Giving Circle convening in San Francisco on July 13 and 14, which brought together leaders from over 20 giving circles across the country.

2012 AAPIP Giving Circle Convening: We Are Part of A Movement

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Dana Heatherton, Asian American Giving Circle of Greater Houston



When I walked into the Welcome Dinner for AAPIP’s 3rd National Convening, strangers I had never met were cheering and hugging me. It can only be described as a wonderful combination of pep rally, family reunion, and blind date.

Asian American, Undocumented and Unafraid

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Cynthia Choi, Deputy Director, AAPIP

I first met Catherine Eusebio nearly a year ago when she spoke at an AAPIP convening in September 2011 which highlighted Asian American undocumented students. At that convening, alongside fellow DREAM students Ju Hong and David Cho, she spoke eloquently about her personal journey from being afraid, ashamed and angry, to becoming a powerful leader in the immigrant youth movement.

The Power of Dreamers

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Timothy P. Silard, President, Rosenberg Foundation

Last month, dozens of youth and advocates gathered for a reception to welcome the Northern California participants of the 2012 Dream Summer program. Organized by the UCLA Labor Center and now in its second year, Dream Summer builds the capacity and leadership of Dream youth by connecting them to full-time internships with social justice and labor organizations like AAPIP, CHIRLA and Asian Law Caucus.

Welcome New Board Member June Noronha!

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We are thrilled to welcome June Noronha to the AAPIP board. June is a Senior Manager with Native Nations Team at the Bush Foundation in St. Paul, Minnesota

Bridging Communities

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James Head, Vice President of Programs, The San Francisco Foundation



One of the best things about the work of a community foundation is our ability to be responsive to the needs of our community – to pull together partners, organizations, and leaders to address the issues of our time as they happen.

In the post-9/11 world, we recognized a need to do just that.

The CEF Story

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Laila Mehta, Director, Civic Engagement Fund

In philanthropy we know that story-telling is a critical way to illustrate impact. A new video — Post 9/11: The Impact of a Funder Collaborative – tells the tale of what we learned through the Civic Engagement Fund.

The Power of Nuanced Data

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Peggy Saika, Executive Director

This latest report reveals how inadequate data conceals significant disparities in educational experiences and outcomes for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.

Rebuilding a Landmark: How the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago Rose from the Ashes

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Noelle Ito, AAPIP Senior Director of Community Philanthropy


After a fire ravaged the Chinese-American Museum of Chicago (CAMOC), the community was left shocked and saddened. The thought of rebuilding was daunting but even worse was the idea of not having a place to celebrate the culture, history, and stories of Chinese Americans in the Midwest.

Tom Layton accepts 2013 Banyan Tree Award

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Thomas C. Layton, President and Stacie Ma’a, Vice President of the Wallace Alexander Gerbode Foundation received AAPIP’s second annual Banyan Tree Award. The Banyan Tree Award is presented to an individual or institution within philanthropy with a demonstrated commitment to Building Democratic Philanthropy.

Reconnecting in Minnesota: An AAPIP “Booster Shot”

Margie Andreason, Minnesota Chapter Co-chair

Once you’re part of AAPIP, that network will be there for you during moves, transitions, and time. At least, that’s what we saw at the Minnesota Chapter’s group dinner on February 6, 2013.

Food for Thoughtful Giving: The Dinner Guys

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Kung Ko, a founding member of The Dinner Guys

Since joining AAPIP’s National Giving Circle Network, many people have asked who The Dinner Guys are. After making an impression by coming in as one of New York City’s top finishers in Bolder Giving’s first national Give OUT Day recently, we thought we’d dig a little deeper so we can get to know them.

Catherine Eusebio Receives White House Honors

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Catherine Eusebio, AAPIP Social Justice Fellow, is set to receive honors as a “Champion of Change” on May 6th as the White House celebrates fifteen Asian American and Pacific Islander women for their outstanding work to create a more equal, safe, and prosperous future for AAPI communities.

Funding at the Intersections

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“Building Democratic Philanthropy” is not only a part of AAPIP’s logo, it’s also a key approach to how we do our work. The Queer Justice Fund enacts that phrase by working with other funders and philanthropic partners to share information, best practices, and strategies for collaborative endeavors. One such example is a funder briefing that we held on February 6th in Minnesota.

Actions Louder Than Words: How Giving Circle Trailblazers Sparked a Movement

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Alex Wong, AAPIP Community Philanthropy Manager

When Kathy Im, Alice Lee-Osborne, and Serena Moy found out that less than 1% of all foundation dollars went to the AAPI community, they started to talk about ways to increase resources to the community. As young professionals working in philanthropy and as members of AAPIP’s Chicago chapter, they knew there was a need being overlooked and that a significant gap needed to be filled.

Announcing 2013 Banyan Tree Honorees

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AAPIP is pleased to announce the 2013 Banyan Tree Honorees: Thomas C. Layton, President and Stacie Ma’a, Vice President of The Wallace Alexander Gerbode Foundation. The Banyan Tree Award is presented to an individual or institution in philanthropy with a demonstrated commitment to Building Democratic Philanthropy.

The Civic Engagement Journey

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Almost everyone remembers what they were doing the morning of September 11, 2001, including Tessa Rouverol Callejo, the FAITHS Program and Civic Engagement Officer at The San Francisco Foundation.

Aloha Spirit in DC

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You can learn and read about the U.S. Constitution, the Supreme Court, and Washington DC in a classroom– but it’s different to see them in person. This spring, a group of 8th graders from Hilo will see firsthand just what that looks like. For many, it will be their first time on an airplane and the first time out of the State of Hawai’i.

Still I Dream

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Steve Li, former 2012 Dream Summer Intern and Catherine Eusebio, AAPIP Social Justice Fellow

It was one sunny day on September 15, 2010, and what I expected to be a typical school day turned out to be a day that changed my life. I was 20 years old when five officials dressed in black from Immigration and Customs Enforcement raided my family’s San Francisco apartment. Once I stepped outside, I was handcuffed and shackled, about to spend the next 66 days incarcerated in a county jail and in a detention center in Arizona.

Creating a Piece of History

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Alex W. Wong, Community Philanthropy Manager

Congratulations to Red Envelope Giving Circle in their first year of giving together, and for funding a collective $10,000 to Asian and Pacific Islander Family Pride, One Love Oceania, Queer Rebel Productions and The Dragon Fruit Project. To learn more about Red Envelope Giving Circle visit: www.red-envelope-giving-circle.org

How to be Vietnamese

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Holy Vo, 2011 VIET Fellow

I spent a month in the countryside of Bình Minh before heading up to Sài Gòn to start the Viet Fellows program. On the first day, Tony asked us all, “Why are you here?” and met a room of silence. What a simple question, and yet, infinitely difficult to grasp. Why was I here?

Nui and Long: Mountain of hope

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Ly Ngo, 2011 VIET Fellow

Incomprehensible, inhumane, injustice. Those were some of the words that popped into my head as I listened to Thay Chau describing the conditions of St. Francis Shelter and the cold shoulder that the world has shown for these beautiful and loving children. Orphaned, disabled, disease-stricken – these are the shared conditions of the children. The children are so full of energy and life, yet some may never be able to experience the feeling of simply being able to walk or speak

It’s Thuy

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Ai-Tram Bui, 2011 VIET Fellow

If there’s one person I won’t ever forget during my time in Vietnam, it’s Thủy. The first day I met her at Từ Dũ Hospital, she welcomed me with open arms. I can never forget her smile, a smile so generous and kind. I remember her asking me quizzical questions about America and about my life; although we had only met for a day, I felt as though I had known her from years ago.

Daring To Do What the Spirit Says Do

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Barbara Phillips

Moments of the day with the Minnesota NGEC fellowship organization’s kept poking at me. So when Peggy Saika shared that it is racism within philanthropy that led to the creation of AAPIP (Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders in Philanthropy), and while AAPIP never intended to be and is not a “funder” it seized the opportunity to create the space for the National Gender & Equity Campaign of which the OFP is a component.

There is Nothing More Difficult

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Barbara Phillips



There is nothing more difficult to carry out, nor more doubtful of success, nor more dangerous to handle than to initiate a new order of things.

Not Just Another Tool in the Toolbox

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Tawal Panyacosit, Executive Director of API Equality Northern California


When Alice Y. Hom, Director of the Queer Justice Fund, first mentioned that she was working on a report on funding disparities for LGBTQ AAPI communities, I was excited. I remember telling her it would become one of my bibles, my go-to resources on the LGBTQ AAPI community.

Part 4: Civic Engagement Fund (CEF) Critical Collaboration Series

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Simran Kaur, The Sikh Coalition


Consensus building is an incredibly powerful process in decision-making. When groups want strong support for a project, by all members, consensus building is not only beneficial but it is also impactful. Consensus building has a rich history and has been used by various communities, groups and political movements over time.

I Know How It Feels to Be Judged For Being Different

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Steve Li, 2012 DREAM Summer Intern

Attending the 2012 NQAPIA conference was truly a privilege, being able to share a space with many individuals who identified themselves as LGBTQ API. Never have I seen so many come together from different generations to work for social change in the LQBTQ API community.

Part 3: Civic Engagement Fund (CEF) Critical Collaboration Series

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S. Nadia Hussain

Oftentimes, in activism, it can seem as if we are in isolated bubbles, fighting uphill battles that never end. In this cohort, I think we have seen that we are all a valuable piece of a larger puzzle, pieces that can come together for broader changes. ASATA as an organization feels empowered to know that we are part of a greater movement.

Size Matters (But Not in the Way One Might Think!)

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Cynthia Choi, Deputy Director

In September of this year, I had the privilege of attending the inaugural celebration event for the Rainbow Dragon Fund (RDF) the nation’s first giving circle by and for Queer Asian American and Pacific Islander communities and a member of AAPIP’s National Giving Circle network.

23 Circles and Growing!

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Noelle Ito, Community Philanthropy Director


Through AAPIP’s National Giving Circle Campaign, AAPI dreamers and doers have been rolling up their sleeves and pooling their funds to affect positive change. Year 2 of AAPIP’s 5-year campaign reflected this spirit as we saw an incredible year of growth, giving, and gratitude.

New Campaign and Partnership Launched in 2012

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Peggy Saika, Executive Director

What if each of us fully embraced the power of leveraging individual action for collective good? What if we all shared a vision that the sum of our actions is greater than the parts alone?

Dreamers Leading

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Catherine Eusebio, Social Justice Fellow

Dream Summer was one avenue where I could reclaim my agency. It’s the only national effort, led by and for undocumented young people that aims to build a generation of leaders of an inclusive, progressive movement. Through Dream Summer, I had the opportunity to learn and grow as an intern at AAPIP for ten weeks. I am not exaggerating when I say that summer was life-changing.

Summer DREAMs

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Hertz Alegrio, Queer Dream Summer Intern at API Equality Los Angeles

Summer may only be three months long, but a lot can happen during this spirited season… What I know for sure is that this summer has been life-changing for me and the 1.4 million young undocumented Americans who will benefit from Deferred Action.

Noelle Ito Receives White House “Champion of Change” Award

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Noelle Ito, AAPIP Director of Community Philanthropy, received a White House “Champion of Change” award on August 17, 2012 as part of President Barack Obama’s Winning the Future initiative. Honorees are selected by the White House Office of Public Engagement, in partnership with AmeriCorp Alumni and the Corporation for National & Community Service. Noelle served with the AmeriCorp National Youth Service Project in Washington DC at the beginning of her career in the public interest.

Civic Engagement Fund (CEF) Critical Collaboration Series

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Laila Mehta, Director, Civic Engagement Fund

At AAPIP we are recognized by many as convenors. As such, convenings are the hallmark of our work, and on July 18 and 19 the CEF cohort met to continue to share lessons learned and to delve into the political realities of AMEMSA immigrant and refugee rights issues. This work has been the cornerstone of CEF’s efforts to build capacity and collaborations in AMEMSA communities, and we’re beginning to see multiple outcomes, but these kinds of results come only with time and deep investment.

Identities Clashing

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Catherine Eusebio, 2012 DREAM Summer Intern

A clashing of identities was a common theme from the participants of the conference. Many people expressed that they had to fully leave behind their ethnic or religious self because it was at odds with their queer identity. It was uplifting, however, to hear someone say, “We do this [social justice oriented] work to heal ourselves so that we no longer have to exist as fragmented people.”

Part 2: Civic Engagement Fund Critical Collaboration Series

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Kathy Reich, The David and Lucile Packard Foundation

Thanks to all of you for inviting me to the CEF convening. I truly appreciated the opportunity to get to know you in a relaxed, candid, and open environment.

I learned (or re-learned) a few very valuable lessons from our time together.

We Are Everywhere: Connecting the Dots of Social Justice Movement

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Alice Y. Hom, Director, Queer Justice Fund

LGBT (lesbian, gay, bisexual, transgender) AAPI (Asian American/Pacific Islander) people have always participated in diverse social justice movements but we have not always been openly gay and/or visible as racialized and gendered people in these movements.

Origin Story

In 1990, the number of Asian Americans/Pacific Islanders (AAPIs) on U.S. foundation staff had grown slightly but still represented a …

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