8 Ways to Shop and Support the AAPI Community – AAPI Organizations
With an increasingly large and diverse population of AAPI members, Oregon needs to continue developing its comprehensive resources for this community. Whether you’re looking to support a dedicated AAPI nonprofit or you’re a member of the AAPI community seeking companionship and assistance, we hope you find this list of primarily local AAPI organizations helpful and inspiring. They rely entirely on community participation, engagement, and donations. Contact them individually to find out how you can best support them and their missions.
Here is a list of Oregon-based AAPI organizations you can support:
Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon (APANO)
The Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon is a statewide, grassroots organization uniting Asians and Pacific Islanders to achieve social justice. We use our collective strengths to advance equity through empowering, organizing, and advocating with our communities.
Backed by the Immigrant Refugee Community Organization in Multnomah County, APANO was founded in 1996 to introduce coordinated leadership in various areas of public policy. Along with the APANO Communities United Fund, they work to unite Asian and Pacific Islanders and attain social justice. Focusing on community organizing, policy advocacy, civic engagement, leadership development, community development, and cultural work, APANO hosts numerous events and opportunities for engagement each year. Participation is cherished, as every dollar donated generates over $90 in community benefits.
The Rice Bowl Posse
Community, not competition.
In response to increased reports of racism, violence, and hate crimes directed at Asian Americans, five AAPI identifying Portland food cart owners founded The Rice Bowl Posse. Their primary goal is to support each other and other AAPI restaurant owners as they navigate these frightening times. Aron Moxley of Stabs, Thuy Pham of Mama Dut Foods, Richard Le of Matta, Han Hwang of Kim Jong Grillin’, and Jacky Ren of Bing Mi aim to grow support for AAPI owned restaurants and increase accountability.
Asian/Pacific Islander American Chamber of Commerce and Entrepreneurship (ACE)
Our mission is to help AAPI and minority business enterprises survive this pandemic and implement strategies that help them adapt to a changing economy. If you have a business or a nonprofit and need help finding answers, you’ve come to the right place. We’re here to help.
ACE is an information hub geared toward supporting AAPI-owned small businesses. They can assist with accessing funds, government services, health and wellness information, and various support services. Their town hall offers a wealth of knowledge, including services, events, and webinars from their community-based business and civic partners.
https://www.acesmallbusiness.org/
Hapa, Asian, and Pacific Islanders of Portland (HAPI)
Our group commits to the following: forming a professional network with development opportunities; creating a supportive environment for members to exchange ideas and discuss challenges to the HAPI community; advocating to strengthen community inclusiveness through public outreach toward policies, plans, and investments; collaborating with community organizations and institutions on shared goals; highlighting contributions made by HAPI communities.
The HAPI. Affinity Group collaborates with the city of Portland to advocate and educate on behalf of HAPI employees, strategizing ways to attract, support, and retain them. They use the term “Hapa” to represent multiracial individuals of Asian or Pacific Islander descent.
https://www.portlandoregon.gov/71327
Immigrant and Refugee Community Organization (IRCO)
Our vision is to be a leader of community-driven, innovative programs delivered by compassionate staff who create equitable services that empower immigrants, refugees, and underserved communities.
With over 200 culturally and linguistically specific social services, IRCO empowers Oregon’s immigrants, refugees, and community members to build new, self-sufficient lives. They work to help individuals and families thrive through programs that nurture understanding, compassion, and communication between Oregon’s established communities and those being introduced.
Japanese-American Society of Oregon (JASO)
Our mission is to develop business and community by strengthening the US-Japan relationship.
JASO is the third oldest Japan-American Society in the United States (1907). It is comprised of corporations and individuals in Oregon and Southwest Washington that are passionate about enhancing the connection between the US and Japan. These enthusiastic advocates form volunteer committees that lead programs in business, education, and culture.
Kalakendra, Society for the Performing Arts of India
Our mission is to introduce, promote, and enhance awareness of the various performing arts of the Indian subcontinent through concerts, classical dances, recitals, and lecture demonstrations.
Kalakendra contributes to the area’s cultural activities and cross-cultural understanding through sharing performing art forms of India. Founded in 1987, they feature internationally acclaimed artists and local talent, providing programs that attract a diverse community audience.
Philippine American Chamber of Commerce of Oregon (PACCO)
Welcome to a diverse community that promotes economic justice and empowerment for Filipinos, Native Americans, Black, Indigenous, and all People of Color. We create a positive impact on Filipino businesses and the Oregon Economy.
PACCO’s goals focus on racial equity, including promoting entrepreneurism, education, professional growth, civic engagement, and business development. They prepare the next generation of Filipino leaders in a variety of ways. These include scholarships, leadership training programs, board involvement, technical assistance, community volunteerism, and relevant workshops.
These are just five AAPI organizations in Oregon. We invite you to do your own research and support the AAPI organizations that are most aligned with your beliefs.