On the evening of the 23rd, the Chinese Health Association hosted a fundraising and recognition gala attended by numerous elected officials and members of the Chinese community. Lina Chen, the head of the organization, shared that the funds raised during the event will be invested in community safety, specifically to help purchase patrol vehicles for the Local Community Patrol (LCP), ensuring that volunteers can patrol without facing the harsh winter cold.
The gala was held at the Fortune Palace Banquet Hall, featuring nearly 30 tables and inviting over 300 members of the community and the public. Chen expressed gratitude for the community’s support and noted that this was the association’s first fundraising gala in ten years. She emphasized the importance of recognizing outstanding individuals who have made significant contributions to the community.
Among the highlights of the evening was the presentation of an Arts Award to Dooble Duke Sims, who used music and art to unite people during anti-Asian sentiment. Growing up in Bensonhurst, Sims expressed his deep love for the community and his desire to spread positivity in return. Lisa Eng received the Medical Consultant Award, reflecting on her immigration journey and the warmth of the community that shaped her career. She stated, “Without patients, there would be no me.” Pauline Yeung-Ha was honored with the Legal Advocacy Award, sharing how the support from community members enabled her women’s law firm to thrive.
The Community Patrol Award was given to LCP member Kent Woo, who thanked his fellow patrol members and committed to continuing his efforts for the community. The evening concluded with the Lifetime Volunteer Award presented to the Sunflower Dance Music Center.
“Our community belongs to everyone,” Chen remarked, highlighting that after a decade, the association was eager to once again engage the community in such gatherings to foster unity. Regarding the funds raised, she expressed hope that the money would be used to purchase patrol vehicles for the LCP, aiming to provide shelter from the elements and expand patrol coverage.
The event saw the attendance of various elected officials and community leaders, including Congresswoman Nicole Malliotakis, State Assembly Members Yuh-Line Niou and William Colton’s chief of staff Helen He, City Council Member Sandra Ung, District Leader for the 49th District Xiaoqiong Xie, and 62nd Precinct Commander Zhijiang Liu.
