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Dear advocate,

This month is significant to me because it marks a third of my life spent with OCA—a journey that began when I was just 19 years old, searching for belonging. Growing up in West Houston, long before Katy Asian Town existed, I longed for a community to learn from and grow with. OCA became that chosen family. It was here that I found mentors, peers, and role models who affirmed my identity and showed me that life held so much more possibility than I once imagined.

OCA gave me more than a career path. The OCA family empowered me to cultivate my sense of self-worth. I often say I would have only lived less than two-thirds of my life had it not been for OCA. There’s a Justin Bieber song lyric, “Life is Worth Living ([link removed]) ,” and that’s how I feel every single day when I come to work.

That phrase also connects to something deeply personal. On my shoulder, I carry a tattoo in Korean that says sal ja, which means “let’s live.” If you flip the same characters, it says ja sal, which means “suicide.” I had wanted this tattoo since high school, but promised myself I would only get it once I felt truly grounded—when I knew I was on the right path.

At the end of 2017, just half a year into working at OCA, I finally did. Facilitating workshops for elders and youth, capturing the achievements of corporate and community leaders, and writing impactful statements all helped me feel fulfilled. I could help people in ways that I am actually good at (I am actually bad at biochemistry, which was necessary for medical school). It is my privilege to work at OCA as my full-time day job.

"Let’s live” is more than a phrase. It’s a reminder that even in difficult times, there is purpose, joy, and hope to be found.

Now, as I turn 30, that reminder carries even deeper meaning. “Let’s live” despite the challenges our communities face. Let’s live with hope. Let’s live with conviction. Let’s live in community. Because I know OCA’s work is not just about programs or policies, but about building lives worth living, together.

When I look back, I see how OCA has shaped not only my own story, but countless others. From identity development programs for youth to leadership training to policy advocacy that fights for equity and justice, OCA continues to open doors that many of us never knew were possible. Our work ensures that Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders are not only included but empowered to lead.

That’s why I want to use this milestone birthday as an opportunity to give back to the very community that continues to give me so much. My birthday wish is to reach $30,000 in donations and 300 new donors this month—30 for 30. Every gift, whether it’s $5, $30, or more, goes directly toward building leaders, advocating for equity, and protecting the communities that give us life and hope.
Help Me Reach My Goal ([link removed])

And just like my own journey, I know this is not something I can do alone. Our strength has always come from coalition—from friends, family, and neighbors who show up together. So, I’m asking not only for your support, but for you to bring someone along with you. Invite a friend, a colleague, or a loved one to make a gift too.

OCA is more than an organization. It’s a movement. It’s a family. It’s a lifeline – it was mine. If you can, please consider making a gift today and help us reach my birthday goal of 300 new donors. Together, we can ensure that OCA not only lives on, but thrives, shaping a world where all of us can live fully and freely.

Let’s live and let’s do it together.

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OCA National Center
Advancing the sociopolitical and holistic well-being of all Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders

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