As a community of refugees, we deeply cherish the freedom we enjoy here in the United States and continue to hold hope that our motherland, Vietnam, will one day achieve freedom as well. In observance of the 2024 Day of the Imprisoned Writer, VAO, in collaboration with our friends at PEN America and alongside fellow writers and allies, dedicates this day to advocating for the release of writers who have been unjustly imprisoned. This year, PEN America shines a spotlight on Pham Doan Trang, a Vietnamese writer and human rights advocate who was honored with the 2024 PEN/Barbey Freedom to Write Award. Trang’s courage and commitment to free expression have spanned decades—from her work as an early-internet blogger to her role as a nonprofit founder. Most notably, as an independent publisher, Trang defied censorship by distributing physical copies of banned books across Vietnam, breathing new life into literature and advocacy within the country. Let us stand together in solidarity to demand freedom for Trang and all imprisoned writers worldwide. #WritetoTrang @PENamerica

Have a friend with an inspiring story? Nominate them (or even yourself!) to be featured for their inspirational contributions. We are passionate about sharing stories that uplift, motivate, and bring us together. Nominate now with the link in bio to share stories that make our community special! 💖

With millions of veterans residing in the United States, Veterans Day stands as a powerful reminder of the courage and dedication of those who have served in the armed forces. This day inspires us to pause and appreciate the freedoms we enjoy, made possible through the steadfast commitment of these extraordinary individuals. Thank You!

We’re looking for passionate individuals to join our team! 🌟Whether you’re interested in volunteering or interning, we’d love to have you on board! At VAO, we believe in the power of community and the incredible impact we can create together. As a nonprofit dedicated to empowering individuals to engage, learn, and lead in strengthening our local community, we rely on the dedicated and support of volunteers like YOU to make a real difference. 🙌 Ready to make an impact? Join us today! Link in bio~

Welcome to our Vietnamese-American organization! We are dedicated to supporting and empowering the Vietnamese-American community through various initiatives and programs. Join us as we strive to celebrate our culture, heritage, and identity. Together, we can make a difference and create a vibrant community for all. Check out our website to learn more! Link in bio. #vietnameseamerican #communitysupport #empowerment #vietnam #vietnamese #viet #vietnameseamerican #sanjose

We're excited to support an Open Mic 🎙️ segment on AM-1430, a prominent Vietnamese radio station in the Bay Area, starting today and continuing over the next several weeks. This program provides a valuable platform for community members to share their voices, strengthen our local community, promote small businesses and services, or send heartfelt messages to loved ones. Don’t miss your chance to be heard—tune in every Wednesday from 8 PM to 10 PM on AM-1430, or listen online at www.kvvn.net

Happy Voting Day! 🗳️ Today is the day to make your voice heard! Whether you're voting in person or dropping off your ballot, every vote counts. Let's shape the future together—one vote at a time. 💪✨ #VotingDay Find Vote Center here: https://rovservices.sccgov.org/ CA Voter Guide - English: https://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2024/general/pdf/complete-vig.pdf CA - Thông Tin cử tri Tiếng Việt: https://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2024/general/vi/pdf/complete-vig.pdf

Tomorrow is Voting Day! 🗳️ Get ready to make your voice count! Whether you’re voting in person or dropping off your ballot, tomorrow is your chance to help shape the future. Check your polling location, gather your ID if needed, and set a reminder to cast your vote. Every vote matters—let’s make it count! 💪✨ #VotingDay #GetOutTheVote Find Vote Center here: https://rovservices.sccgov.org/ CA Voter Guide: https://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2024/general/pdf/complete-vig.pdf ------- Ngày mai là Ngày Bầu Cử! 🗳️ Hãy sẵn sàng để làm cho tiếng nói của bạn được lắng nghe! Dù bạn bầu cử trực tiếp hay bỏ phiếu qua thư, ngày mai là cơ hội để bạn góp phần định hình tương lai. Hãy kiểm tra địa điểm bầu cử của mình, mang theo giấy tờ tùy thân nếu cần, và nhớ đặt lịch nhắc để đi bầu. Mỗi lá phiếu đều quan trọng—hãy cùng nhau tạo nên sự khác biệt! 💪✨ #NgayBauCu Tìm trung tâm bầu cử: https://rovservices.sccgov.org/ CA - Thông Tin cử tri Tiếng Việt: https://vig.cdn.sos.ca.gov/2024/general/vi/pdf/complete-vig.pdf

We’re beyond grateful to everyone who made the Community Festival 2024 a huge success! To our dedicated volunteers—your hard work, smiles, and passion brought this event to life. And to our amazing sponsors—thank you for believing in our vision and helping us create unforgettable memories for everyone. Together, we’ve built a stronger, more vibrant community. Here’s to the power of teamwork and the impact of community spirit! 💙

Yesterday, we officially sent a letter to the San Jose City Council urging them to take immediate action regarding the ongoing investigation into Councilmember Omar Torres. The letter highlights the seriousness of the allegations, including disturbing findings from the investigation that reference explicit communications involving minors, with specific mention of the anatomy of an 11-year-old autistic child. This situation raises critical concerns about public safety, and we must act now to protect our children and city. We have urged the council to suspend Councilmember Torres from all official duties until the investigation is resolved. Our city's leadership must be held to the highest ethical standards, and we are committed to ensuring transparency and accountability Read the full letter here: https://www.vaousa.org/urgent-call-to-suspend-councilmember-omar-torres-from-official-duties

🎉 That’s a wrap! 🎉 A huge THANK YOU to all the attendees, vendors, sponsors, community partners, performers, volunteers, and most of all, our amazing staff! 🙌 Your support made the Community Festival a huge success. We couldn’t have done it without you! 💙 #ThankYou #CommunityFestival #Grateful #CommunitySupport #Success

🎉 The day is here! 🎉 The Community Festival is happening NOW! Come join us for live performances, food, and fun activities for all ages! Don’t miss out! 🙌 🎉 Tham dự Ngày Cộng Đồng với rất nhiều các trò chơi, trúng thưởng🎉 #CommunityFestival #FunForAll #HappeningNow

🎉 The day is here! 🎉 The Community Festival 2024 is happening SOON! Come join us for live performances, community resources, food, and fun activities for all ages! Don’t miss out! 🙌 🎉 Ngày Cộng Đồng 2024 🎉 Tới tham dự để vui chơi, trúng thưởng, sinh hoạt tìm hiểu các dịch vụ xã hội cộng đồng. Các sinh hoạt thích hợp cho mọi lứa tuổi. Có thể ghi danh tại chổ. #CommunityFestival #FunForAll #HappeningNow

🤝 A huge THANK YOU to our Community Partners and Supporters! 🤝 Your unwavering support makes the Community Festival possible—bringing people together, fostering connections, and giving back to the community. Every effort helps create a space where we can all grow and thrive together, and we are truly grateful to have you with us on this journey. We couldn’t do it without you! 💙 #Grateful #CommunityPartners #Supporters #CommunitySupport #ThankYou

🥈 A huge THANK YOU to our Silver Sponsors! 🥈 Your generous support helps make the Community Festival a reality—bringing us together, sharing resources, promoting community involvement, and giving back. Every contribution makes a difference in building a stronger community, and we’re grateful to have you by our side, uplifting those around us. We couldn’t do it without you! 🤍 #Grateful #SilverSponsors #CommunitySupport #CommunityInvolvement #ThankYou

🏅 A huge THANK YOU to our Gold Sponsors! 🏅 Your generous support helps make the Community Festival a success—bringing us together, sharing resources, promoting community involvement, and giving back. Each of us plays a role in building a vibrant community, and we’re grateful to work alongside you to uplift those around us. We couldn’t do it without you! 💛 #Grateful #GoldSponsors #CommunitySupport #CommunityInvolvement #ThankYou

💎 A huge THANK YOU to our Diamond Sponsors! 💎 Your generous support makes the Community Festival possible—bringing us together, sharing resources, promoting community involvement, and giving back. Everyone has a role in building our community, and that’s what we do—working together to uplift those around us. We couldn’t do it without you! 💙 #Grateful #DiamondSponsors #CommunitySupport #CommunityInvolvement #ThankYou

🎉 Get ready for an unforgettable day at the Community Festival tomorrow! 🎶🧧 Don’t miss out on the JP2 Lion Dance performance, kicking off right before the Flag and Opening Ceremony! 🦁🎏 This vibrant performance will bring excitement and energy to start the festivities, and you won’t want to miss it! Join us for a day filled with culture, fun, and community spirit. See you there! 🌟 --- Established in 2015, JP2 Lion Dance Team is built on the foundation of the Vietnamese Youth Eucharistic Movement chapter John Paul 2 in San Jose, CA. Celebrating both faith and culture, the team brings joy to every performance with their agile movements and synchronized energy. Our routines highlight skills, deepen community bonds, and create lasting memories, all while honoring cultural traditions and spreading happiness at every event. #CommunityFestival #LionDance #JP2Performance #FamilyFun #SeeYouThere

🌟✨ Get ready for an amazing hands-on experience at the Community Festival this Saturday! 🎨🌿 Join us for a Cyanotype Workshop by Andy Nguyen, where YOU can create your own stunning blue-and-white prints using this beautiful, age-old photographic technique! 🌊📸 Whether you're an artist, a nature lover, or just looking for a fun new hobby, this workshop is perfect for all ages and skill levels! 👉 Bring your creativity and discover the magic of sun printing with leaves, flowers, and other objects, or try your own designs! All materials are provided, and our friendly instructor will guide you through the process step by step. 🗓️ Date: This Saturday 📍 Location: Community Festival Grounds Come create something beautiful, take home your unique art piece, and make memories with us! 🌞🎨 Tag a friend who should join you, and we’ll see you there! 💙👥 #CyanotypeWorkshop #CommunityFestival #ArtInTheSun #HandsOnFun #createwithus ----- Andy Nguyen was born in Vietnam and raised in San Jose. Nguyen received his BFA in Photography from San Jose State University (SJSU). Currently, he is pursuing his dream in MFA Photography at SJSU. Nguyen spends time exploring areas around the Bay Area for inspiration for his photography, creating photos that reflect the landscapes, nature, and lifestyle of various ethnic populations in the Bay Area, throughout America, and around the world. His photographic process and work express the relationships that he has with local communities and their stories that inspire his work. His passion for photography spans over 15 years, and his dedication is captured through his documentation of personal narratives, community events, as well as cultural celebrations.

Happy Monday! 🌸 Did you know that flowers can aid in healing, help you connect with nature, enhance creativity and focus, and boost your mood while reducing stress? 🌿✨ Join us at the Community Festival 2024 this Saturday, 10/12, from 11am-1pm for a hands-on flower workshop with Minnie Thai, founder of Flora Haven and co-founder of United Wholesale Flowers. 🌿✨ Plus, you can bring home some cute flowers—all free of charge! 🌸🌸🌸 The Community Festival is a special day for us to come together, give back, and promote community involvement. There’s food, activities, entertainment, and beautiful flowers waiting for you. Come learn the art of floral arrangement, immerse yourself in nature, and create something beautiful. Don’t miss this unique opportunity to unwind and connect with your creative side! #CF2024, #VAO #Community #Festival

How to enter for a chance to win Iphone 16 Pro 📱 👉 Sign up online for Free Admission 👉 Check-in at the event to receive a free raffle ticket 🎫 👉 Be at the event by 3:30 PM 🎫 Raffle for the iPhone 16 Pro will begin between 3:45 PM and 4:00 PM

🌟 Calling All Volunteers! 🌟 Are you ready to make a difference, meet awesome people, and have a blast? Join us at the Community Festival 2024 and be a part of The Community! 💥 We’re looking for energetic, passionate individuals to help us make this event unforgettable! Whether you want to help with activities, support vendors, or just lend a hand, we’ve got a spot for you! 🙌 Why volunteer? Meet new friends 🤝 Enjoy the fun and excitement 🎉 Give back to your community ❤️ Snag some cool perks 👀 (boba tea🧋) 👀 Sign up now! It’s going to be an amazing day of community, fun, and memories! www.tinyurl.com/cf2024volunteer

🚨 Last Call for Vendor Applications! 🚨 Deadline Oct 2nd. Don't miss your chance to showcase your business, organization, and services at the Community Festival 2024! Vendor applications and registrations will close on October 2nd, so act fast and secure your spot today. This is your opportunity to connect with the local community, promote your products and services, and be part of an amazing event with thousands of attendees. 🎉 Apply now before it’s too late! www.vaousa.org/cf2024 We can’t wait to see you at the festival! #CommunityFestival2024 #VendorCall #LastCallForVendors #LocalBusiness #CommunityEvent

💥 Welcome Team-M Taekwondo to the Community Festival 2024 💥 We’re proud to feature M-Team, an elite Taekwondo demonstration team and nonprofit organization based in San Jose, CA, since 2004. With over 400 national and international performances, M-Team has become a true force in the martial arts community. They’ve wowed audiences across the world, including participating in Season 16 of America’s Got Talent and competing in the World Championships in Hong Kong. Just this past September, they performed at the Los Angeles Korean Festival! https://buff.ly/3TMTqyG Don't miss their incredible demonstration at the Community Festival 2024—get ready to be inspired by their precision, power, and unmatched skill! 🥋🌟 #CommunityFestival2024 #MTeamTaekwondo #MartialArts #SanJose #FamilyFun

🖌️We’re excited to announce that Maker Nexus will be joining us at the Community Festival 2024 with an awesome hands-on activity—Make Your Own Resin Art Craft! 🖌️✨ 🖌️This is a fantastic opportunity for both kids and adults to explore their creativity, learn new skills, and take home a unique piece of art. Whether you’re an experienced crafter or just want to try something new, Maker Nexus has you covered! 🖌️Get inspired, and make something truly special. We can’t wait to see your masterpieces! 🎉 Register to join, Free Admission www.vaousa.org/CF2024 #CommunityFestival2024 #ResinArtCraft #MakerNexus #CreativeFun #FamilyActivities

We are thrilled to welcome Comerica Bank and Imperial Health to this year’s Community Festival. We deeply appreciate their commitment to giving back to the local community by supporting us at the Diamond level. Their generous contributions make a lasting impact on our festival and community as a whole. -- Comerica operates in seven of the 10 largest U.S. cities, with more than 430 banking centers in its primary markets of Texas, Arizona, California, Florida and Michigan. Visit Comerica's Facebook page at facebook.com/Comerica or on Twitter at @ComericaBank for more information on how Comerica is making a positive difference in the communities it serves. To learn more about Comerica’s products, services and career opportunities, visit www.Comerica.com -- Imperial Health passionate about helping people like you receive the health care they deserve. That means providing them the health plan with the best coverage. Imperial Insurance Companies and Imperial Health Plan unite to offer Medicare Advantage and Marketplace plans across six states and 71 total counties. Established by a physician, Imperial Health dedicated to the mission to deliver valuable care so that the members are healthy in mind, body, and spirit to achieve their inherent potential. To learn more about Imperial Health, visit https://buff.ly/3XWEOPN

🚨 Only 3 Weeks Away Until the Community Festival! 🚨 The countdown is on! Don’t miss out—sign up for FREE admission and receive a FREE raffle ticket when you check in at the gate! 🎟️ 🎮 Attendees of all ages can enter a raffle, play games and redeem prizes! 🎁 With over $70,000 in prizes from our amazing corporate sponsors, there’s something for everyone. Don’t miss your chance to win! 🎤 Enjoy cultural performances, a live concert, and plenty of snacks along with a complimentary lunch. It’s a fun-filled day for the whole family! Help us spread the word by sharing the event and don’t forget to invite your family and friends to join us at Community Festival 2024! 🎉 🚨There’s still time to Apply for vendor space or even consider sponsoring. www.vaousa.org/CF2024 Want to get involved? We’re still looking for volunteers to help out on the day of the festival. www.tinyurl.com/CF2024volunteer

🎉 A Huge Thank You to Our Diamond Sponsors: Poppy Hills Musique and Amazon! 🎉 We are beyond grateful for the generous support of Poppy Hills Musique and Amazon for this year’s Community Festival 2024. Your contributions make it possible for us to create a truly special event that promotes community engagement, cultural celebration, and opportunities for growth. At the heart of everything we do is the goal of community development—and it’s partners like you who help us bring this vision to life. Together, we are fostering connections, providing resources, and building a stronger, more vibrant community for everyone. Thank you for believing in our mission and helping us make a lasting impact! 💪✨ Sign up to participate in the Community Festival 2024 www.vaousa.org/CF2024 #CommunityFestival2024 #ThankYou #CommunityDevelopment #PoppyHillsMusique #Amazon #SupportLocal

🔔 Vendor Spaces are Limited! Don’t Miss Out! 🔔 Just a quick reminder that our vendor spaces for the Community Festival 2024 are filling up quickly! This is your chance to showcase your business to over 2,000 attendees and take advantage of the amazing benefits we offer. 🔔What’s in it for you? 🔔Brand exposure: Promote your business/organization/products/services to potential new customers. 🔔Engage with the community: Build meaningful connections with local community and organizations. 🔔Affordable rates: Low cost, and FREE space for Business, Organization, and Vendor with an annual operating budget of $50,000 or less. Sign up before the spots are gone! www.vaousa.org/CF2024 We can’t wait to see you at the festival!

🎶 Poppy Hills Musique band will be rocking the stage at the Community Festival from 2pm to 5pm! 🎸🔥 This incredible lineup includes the amazing talents of Chau Dung, Duy Tuan, Anh Mai, Gia Dao, Vietcoustic group, and our special guest singer Gia Huy will be making a thrilling appearance to add even more magic to the show! 🌟 Get ready for an afternoon of live music, good vibes, and pure entertainment! You don’t want to miss this! 🎤🎶 📅 When? Saturday, Oct. 12. 📍 Where? At the Community Festival 2024! See you there—let’s turn up the energy and make it a day to remember! 💥 Sign up for FREE Admission here: www.vaousa.org/CF2024

Calling all vendors! Be part of the action at our 2024 Community Festival! 🎉 Showcase your unique products, connect with the community, and make this event unforgettable. Don’t miss your chance to shine!

Calling All Performers! Sign Up for Community Festival 2024 Do you have a talent you’d like to share with the community? We’re inviting performers of all kinds—singers, dancers, musicians, and more—to sign up and showcase your skills at our 3rd Annual Community Festival on Saturday, October 12, 2024! Details & Sign up link: www.tinyurl.com/cf2024perform

Don’t forget, our Leadership Mixer event is coming up this Saturday! Join us for an opportunity to develop valuable leadership skills with guidance from two exceptional speakers, Mary Hien Pollett and Leon Le. This is a great chance to gain insights, network with fellow leaders, and enhance your leadership toolkit. Light refreshments will be provided, so be sure to attend! You won’t want to miss it! #sanjose #sjsu #sanjosestateuniversity #cityofsanjose

"Prior to her illustrious educational career, Ms. Pollett embarked on a remarkable journey as a 20-year-old immigrant with limited English proficiency and only the clothes on her back. She attended night school while working as a manicurist and seamstress, eventually earning acceptance to UCLA. There, she attained her Bachelor’s Degree in Mathematics and later completed her Master’s Degree in Administration (Education)." Join the Leadership Mixer to gain valuable insights from Ms. Pollett. Read her full bio and register for the Leadership Mixer at www.vaousa.org/vali

Leadership skills are valuable across various areas of life, both personally and professionally. They are crucial in decision-making, conflict resolution, team building, and many more. Join our upcoming Leadership Mixer #2, on Sat. 9/7 from 2pm-5pm, to gain insights from Mary Hien Pollett, Principal at YB High School, and Leon Le, CEO of Pacificwide Real Estate & Mortgage Space is limited. Register for your spot today www.vaousa.org/vali #vaousa #vali #leadership

🧋 You’re Invited to Our Fabulous Tea Party! 🧋where we can network (because who doesn't love small talk?), discuss community project ideas (we promise to listen), and play ridiculously fun games with a chance to win free drinks (yes, you read that right, free!) 🧋Date: Friday, 8/2/2024 Time: 7pm-9pm Location: Tastea (Vietnam Town) 979 Story Rd Unit 7075, San Jose, CA 95122 🧋This event is a wonderful opportunity to connect with community members, share your thoughts on community initiatives, and unwind with some enjoyable games. Additionally, you will have the chance to meet VAO team members and learn more about our ongoing projects.

Launching our pilot project AAPI Kitchen: Enhancing Food Access and Cultural Nutrition Read our press release here: https://www.vaousa.org/press-release-launch-of-pilot-project-aapi-kitchen

We are excited to announce that all photos from Community Portrait Day event are now available on our Flickr page. Please visit the following links to review and download your beautiful portraits: From Lix Studio, Phu Nguyen https://buff.ly/3VZaDXa From InFrame, Hoang Nguyen https://buff.ly/3XGXh2Q Special thanks to Phu Nguyen from Lix Studio and Hoang Nguyen from InFrame Photography for contributing their time and talent to this project to empower our local community. Thank you for being a part of Community Portrait Day!

🌟 Exciting News! 🌟 Our new pilot program is now available for sign-up! 🍽️🚚 Sign up for the EBT Meals Program to have meals delivered right to your doorstep! We are working with the County of Santa Clara and local restaurant partners to provide nutritious, culturally appropriate meals to the AAPI community. This program will help save time, providing you with more free time to focus on what's important and enhance your quality of life. Don't miss out on this opportunity to enjoy delicious meals delivered right to your doorstep! Sign up at Sizzle Spot Restaurant today! 📞 For more information, please visit www.vaousa.org/ebt #MealProgram #CommunityDevelopment #SantaClaraCounty #AAPIKitchen #Food #vaousa #EBT #SizzleSpot

Participants will receive: - Portrait photo session with a professional photographer. - (1) Complimentary instant photo print (8"x10")* - (1) Paper Photo Folder/Frame* - Digital download - Light Refreshments * For family portrait only

Meet our amazing event hosts for the upcoming Leadership Mixer who will ensure participants have a fantastic time! Their energy and charm will keep things lively and fun, featuring engaging conversations, dynamic discussions, and opportunities for us to network and learn leadership skills together. #VALI #VAO #leadership #communitybuilding #VietnameseAmerican

Meet our Special Guest Speaker for the upcoming Leadership Mixer event on 5/30, 6:30pm-9pm. Learn more and Register at www.vaousa.org/vali Phan Ngo, Chief, Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety. Born in Vietnam and fleeing during the fall of Saigon in 1975, he and his family ultimately settled in San Francisco. His early exposure to crime in his neighborhood spurred his ambition to become a police officer, aiming to protect and help those around him. Pursuing a degree in Administrative Justice at San Jose State University, he was influenced by a class discussion on the recruitment challenges of Asians in police forces. This motivated him to join the San Jose Police Department (SJPD), where he started his extensive 27-year career. Over the years, he has held several key positions within the SJPD. His roles have included Deputy Chief of Police across multiple bureaus, where he managed hundreds of personnel and multi-million dollar budgets. Chief Ngo has also been instrumental in implementing community policing strategies, significantly influencing the policing model in San Jose and beyond. He continued his impactful career as the Director of Public Safety for Sunnyvale, California, leading a fully integrated police, fire, and emergency services department for a major metropolitan area. Currently, as Chief of the Sunnyvale Department of Public Safety, he remains dedicated to fostering strong community relationships and inspiring young Vietnamese Americans and others to follow their passions in law enforcement and public safety. --- Leadership Mixer event offers us the chance to develop our leadership skills by learning directly from inspiring community leaders. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from his rich leadership experience and insights. Learn more and Register online at www.vaousa.org/vali We're always seeking inspiring leaders to share their experiences at our upcoming events to empower future generations. If you are one, or if you have any recommendations, please submit your information at www.vaousa.org/vali or let us know by email at info@vaousa.org #Leadership #CommunityBuilding #AAPIHeritageMonth #VAOUSA #VAO

Meet Our Special Guest Speaker for the Leadership Mixer on 5/30 Hong Chu is a results-driven professional with extensive experience in optimizing business operations and driving success. With a career spanning over two decades, she has demonstrated profound expertise in leadership, recruitment, relationship building, and sales growth. Starting at Hertz in 1997 as a Customer Representative, she advanced through roles including Station Manager, Area Fleet Manager, City Manager, and Area Manager in Oakland and San Francisco airports, accumulating 16 years of experience there. In July 2013, she joined CLEAR, where she served as General Manager of the Bay Area, later advancing to Regional Director in 2016, Senior Regional Director in January 2021, and then Senior Director of Operations in July 2021. She led the TSA PreCheck launch for the entire company, managed contract negotiations, and spearheaded vertical growth initiatives. Her operational acumen and strategic prowess have been pivotal in managing day-to-day multi-unit operations, driving operational excellence, and growing the member base from 300,000 to over 10 million. Additionally, she has played a key role in developing talent, promoting numerous employees to higher managerial and directorial roles. Leadership Mixer event offers us the chance to develop our leadership skills by learning directly from inspiring community leaders. Don't miss the opportunity to learn from her rich leadership experience and insights. Register online at www.vaousa.org/vali We're always seeking inspiring leaders to share their experiences at our upcoming events to empower future generations. If you are one, or if you have any recommendations, please let us know info@vaousa.org #CommunityBuilding #Leadership #VietnameseAmericans #vaousa #vao

{Tiếng Việt phía dưới} Join us for an electrifying Leadership Mixer on May 30th from 6:30pm-9:00pm, as we celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and embrace the Year of the Dragon! Get ready for an evening filled with inspiration, empowerment, and community-building. Connect with passionate leaders, share your stories, and ignite your potential within the vibrant Vietnamese American community. Don't miss this opportunity to be motivated and make meaningful connections. Space is limited, Reserve your spot now! https://www.vaousa.org/vali —- Chương trình Leadership Mixer mang đến cơ hội để kết nối, trao đổi, và học hỏi các kỹ năng từ những người lãnh đạo xuất sắc trong cộng đồng. Hãy tham gia, tích lũy kiến thức, để cùng nhau xây dựng một cộng đồng vững mạnh hơn. Ghi danh miễn phí www.vaousa.org/vali

Strength in unity, pride in diversity. Support our AAPI community and empower the voices that enrich our heritage. www.vaousa.org/donate

Today marks the 49th year since the Fall of Saigon on 4/30/1975. It's known as Black April. Many were deceived by the communist government, resulting in lengthy jail sentences instead of reeducation camps. Many feared for their lives and fled Vietnam by boat and land, with hundreds of thousands of people having died or endured criminal acts by pirates. Let's not only recognize their pain and resilience but also acknowledge this as a crucial part of Vietnamese American history. Without their sacrifices, we wouldn't be where we are today. BlackApril and the Yellow Flag shouldn't symbolize political differences but rather our identity, the Vietnamese American identity. Let's write our history together, and also ensure that we pass on our Vietnamese American identity and cultural values to the next generations. #BlackApril #VietnameseAmerican #history #culture #identity

COMMUNITY SPOTLIGHT Hiệp Sĩ Bắc Cali is a community group, focuses on providing free roadside assistance to community members without charging any service fees. This group was form by volunteers who wants to provide non-emergency road side assistance services to the Vietnamese community. The dedicated members volunteer their time and do not seek any compensation for their services. In 2023, Hiệp Sĩ Bắc Cali successfully assisted 239 cases. Hiệp Sĩ Bắc Cali's founder, Huy Dinh Nguyen, originally established Hiệp Sĩ San Jose in July 2021 while he was still involved with the admin team of the Người Việt ở San Jose (NVSJ) Facebook group. Subsequently, he separated from NVSJ to establish Hiệp Sĩ Bắc Cali in March 2023 as he genuinely believe the services we provide should be free. Hiệp Sĩ Bắc Cali aims to serve San Jose and nearby cities, and they can be contacted for assistance at 408-462-0330 or 408-412-3911. ---- Thank you, Hiep Si Bac Cali, for your invaluable contribution to the community through your roadside assistance efforts. Your dedication and commitment are greatly appreciated. Keep up the excellent work! Visit vaousa.org/spotlight to nominate someone you know to be featured in our #Community #Spotlight project. Let's continue to motivate and empower our community together! #CommunitySpotlight #HiepSiBacCali #HiepSi #vaousa

Join us for another weekend of Tết 2024. Feb 16-18. at History Park San Jose

Introducing our new Community Spotlight project, a social media initiative dedicated to showcasing and sharing stories of leadership and inspiration that have a positive impact the local Vietnamese American community. Whether it's individuals, groups, or businesses, our goal is to highlight those who are making a difference. Join us in celebrating the inspirational stories that shape our community! Do you know someone with an inspiring story? Nominate them, or even yourself, to be featured for their contributions! We are passionate about sharing stories that uplift, motivate, and bring us together. Nominees who are chosen to be featured in the Community Spotlight project will be gifted a small token of appreciation from VAO and our sponsors. Nominate now and share the stories that make our community special! https://buff.ly/3tNRvjq #CommunitySpotlight #Connect #Inspire #Empower #Lead

This holiday season, there's nothing better than serving over 1200 community members with hot chocolate, snacks, popcorn, cotton candy, and engaging family activities. The joy extends as we distributed toys to 589 kids, sending heartfelt wishes to hundreds of families. Our team is steadily growing, a cause for gratitude. If you're interested, we always encourage everyone to participate in building the local community. There are various ways to get involved, from volunteering to making a monetary contribution. Visit our website to learn more buff.ly/48jGZPv, and feel free to reach out to us anytime at info@vaousa.org There's still time to make an end-of-year donation for a tax deduction. buff.ly/41Cfvko Check out the Christmas Toys Giving 2023 event photo album here: https://buff.ly/3v9VY08 Thank you anh Dan for the session. Happy Holidays!!!

Join us this Friday at Tastea VietNam Town as we celebrate the holiday season, and bid farewell to 2023. Meet our team members, share community project ideas, and take part in exciting activities for a chance to win a free drink. See you there! #teaparty #communitybuilding #vaousa

and the winners are.... 1st place, most valid votes: Princess Jasmine & Rajah the Tiger 2nd Place, most creative costume: Super Mario Bros 3rd Place, random pick: Jasper loves Owl Congratulations to our winners! 🏆 We will be reaching out to the winners to arrange your prizes. A big thank you to everyone who participated. Remember to like and follow our social media pages to be the first to know about our future contests, giveaways, and events.🎉😄

Are you ready for some spooktacular fun this Halloween? Show off your creativity and costume prowess by entering our Halloween Photo Contest for a chance to win up to a $100 Amazon gift card! How to Enter: 1. Snap a photo that captures your Halloween spirit. 2. Submit your photo here buff.ly/3tW9Sm4 3. Get your friends and family to vote for your entry. Deadline for submission & voting is Nov 5th. Don't miss out on the chance to spook-tacularly win big this Halloween. Enter the contest, get your friends to vote, and let's have an amazing time this spooky season! 👻🎉 HAPPY HALLOWEEN!!

#MidAutumn festival. Today at #LionPlaza by Tully/King, San Jose.

Did you know? The government, including the @Santa Clara County Registrar of Voters recognizes that there's a significant Vietnamese population in the County, yet they continue to fail in understanding the local Vietnamese American culture and history. This includes aspects such as document translations, providing interpreters, and hiring staff with an adequate understanding of the local culture and history. This is why it's important to continue getting involved and educating our friends from every sector and the next generation about Vietnamese American culture and history. Join VAO / Vietnamese American Organization today to help make this happen! https://buff.ly/3PkMCXd We don't celebrate Vietnamese Independence Day 9/2 here.

🌟 Welcoming Viet Steps to VAO Community Festival 2023 🌟 We are thrilled to extend a warm welcome to the incredibly talented VietStep Dance Studio, joining us for our upcoming Community Festival 🎉🎶 A special shout-out goes to the young and vibrant Viet kids who bring their passion and energy to the dance floor. Your dedication and enthusiasm inspire us all, and we are honored to have you as part of our festival. we can't wait to witness your captivating performances that will surely light up the stage 🔥 𝗩𝗜𝗘𝗧𝗦𝗧𝗘𝗣 𝗗𝗔𝗡𝗖𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗨𝗗𝗜𝗢 Website: https://dancestudio-pro.com/online/vietsteps Facebook : https://www.facebook.com/VietStepsCA Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/vietsteps/?hl=en Don't forget to grab you free ticket for CF 2023, we see you real soon ! 🎉 👉🏼 Admission: https://www.vaousa.org/CommunityFestival 👉🏼 Volunteer: www.tinyurl.com/826volunteer 👉🏼Sponsorship: https://www.vaousa.org/CommunityFestival #Sponsorship #vendors #communityfestival2023 #vao #sanjose #bayarea #vietnamese #community #communityday

🌟 Calling All Community Supporters! 🌟 By sponsoring our event, you'll have the chance to shine a spotlight on your business while making a positive impact on our local community 💖 We are proudly to be sponsored by Amazon, Onlok, Pacificwide, Pho Ha Noi, and many more to create an amazing community day for Vietnamese community. Don't miss this fantastic opportunity to create significant impacts and promote or business's branding and culture to publicity. Community Festival là một dịp đặc biệt cho các doanh nghiệp tại San Jose và vùng Bay Area cùng nhau chung tay góp sức vì cộng đồng. Chúng tôi tự hào nhận được sự hổ trợ từ các doanh nghiệp lớn như Amazon, Onlok, Pacificwdie, Phở Hà Nội, và rất nhiều cá nhân, tổ chức khác để tạo ra 1 ngày hội Community Festival 2023 thật thành công và nhiều niềm vui. Nếu quý anh chị muốn tìm hiểu thêm về Sponsorship Volunteer, hãy vui lòng truy cập vào VAO website hoặc liên hệ với Sponsorship Coordinator Thu Le và Minh Hoang để biết thêm chi tiết 👏🏼🎉 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 | 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝟐𝟔𝐓𝐇, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 | 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐀𝐃𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 https://www.vaousa.org/CommunityFestival For Sponsorship Opportunity: 𝗧𝗵𝘂 𝗟𝗲 Sponsorship Coordinator thule249@gmail.com 408-655-4571 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝗮𝗻𝗴 Sponsorship Coordinators minhoang@ucsc.edu 407-757-4299 #communityfestival #cf2023 #sponsorship #GratefulThanks #CommunityFestival #proudly

We Appreciate You 𝗗𝗜𝗔𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗗 𝗦𝗣𝗢𝗡𝗦𝗢𝗥 - 𝗢𝗡 𝗟𝗢𝗞🔥🔥 A heartfelt thank you to Onlok for being our Community Festival 2023 Diamond Sponsor! Your generous support has made an enormous impact on our community, and we are deeply grateful for your partnership. As a Diamond Sponsor, Onlok's commitment has been instrumental in bringing this festival to life. Once again, thank you, Onlok, for being our Community Festival 2023 Diamond Sponsor. Your support has made all the difference, and we look forward to continuing our journey together, making our community an even better place to thrive and flourish 𝗢𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝗻𝗼𝗻𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗳𝗶𝘁 𝗼𝗿𝗴𝗮𝗻𝗶𝘇𝗮𝘁𝗶𝗼𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗮𝘁 𝗲𝗺𝗽𝗼𝘄𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝘁𝗼 𝗮𝗴𝗲 𝘄𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗱𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗶𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗽𝗲𝗻𝗱𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲. 𝗪𝗶𝘁𝗵 𝗼𝘃𝗲𝗿 𝟱𝟬 𝘆𝗲𝗮𝗿𝘀 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝘅𝗽𝗲𝗿𝗶𝗲𝗻𝗰𝗲, 𝗢𝗻 𝗟𝗼𝗸 𝗶𝘀 𝗮 𝘁𝗿𝘂𝘀𝘁𝗲𝗱 𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗼𝘂𝗿𝗰𝗲 𝗶𝗻 𝗦𝗮𝗻 𝗙𝗿𝗮𝗻𝗰𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗼, 𝗦𝗮𝗻𝘁𝗮 𝗖𝗹𝗮𝗿𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆, 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗧𝗿𝗶-𝗖𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗮𝗿𝗲𝗮 𝗼𝗳 𝗔𝗹𝗮𝗺𝗲𝗱𝗮 𝗖𝗼𝘂𝗻𝘁𝘆. 𝗢𝘂𝗿 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝘀𝗶𝗼𝗻: 𝘁𝗼 𝗿𝗲𝗹𝗲𝗻𝘁𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗹𝘆 𝗽𝘂𝗿𝘀𝘂𝗲 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗲 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝗾𝘂𝗮𝗹𝗶𝘁𝘆 𝗼𝗳 𝗰𝗮𝗿𝗲 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗼𝗹𝗱𝗲𝗿 𝗮𝗱𝘂𝗹𝘁𝘀 𝗮𝗻𝗱 𝘁𝗵𝗲𝗶𝗿 𝗳𝗮𝗺𝗶𝗹𝗶𝗲𝘀. 👉🏼 Website: onlok.org 👉🏼 LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/on-lok/ 𝐂𝐎𝐌𝐌𝐔𝐍𝐈𝐓𝐘 𝐅𝐄𝐒𝐓𝐈𝐕𝐀𝐋 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 | 𝐀𝐔𝐆𝐔𝐒𝐓 𝟐𝟔𝐓𝐇, 𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 | 𝐅𝐑𝐄𝐄 𝐀𝐃𝐌𝐈𝐒𝐒𝐈𝐎𝐍 𝐅𝐨𝐫 𝐂𝐅𝟐𝟎𝟐𝟑 𝐒𝐩𝐨𝐧𝐬𝐨𝐫𝐬𝐡𝐢𝐩 𝐎𝐩𝐩𝐨𝐫𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐢𝐭𝐲, 𝐩𝐥𝐞𝐚𝐬𝐞 𝐜𝐡𝐞𝐜𝐤 𝐨𝐮𝐭 𝐭𝐡𝐞 𝐥𝐢𝐧𝐤: https://www.vaousa.org/CommunityFestival 𝗧𝗵𝘂 𝗟𝗲 Sponsorship Coordinator thule249@gmail.com 408-655-4571 𝗠𝗶𝗻𝗵 𝗛𝗼𝗮𝗻𝗴 Sponsorship Coordinators minhoang@ucsc.edu 407-757-4299 #communityfestival #cf2023 #sponsorship #GratefulThanks #CommunityFestival #DiamondSponsor

We’ve just earned our 2023 Platinum Seal, the highest level of recognition offered by @CandidDotOrg!, the world's largest organization that provides the most comprehensive data and insights about the social sector. https://buff.ly/3OCozTn Learn how you can support us and make a difference, visit us at https://buff.ly/3qctEbC #vaousa #guidestar #candid #platinum

Our Community Festival 2023 promo video is now available on YouTube. Will you help us share it? https://buff.ly/43IhrZK

🎉 Get Ready for an Unforgettable Event! 🎉 Join us at the Community Festival on 8/26 for an incredible day of fun, connection, and exploration! 🏙️✨ 🎁 Win Cool Prizes: Participate in exciting games and activities for a chance to win awesome prizes that you don't want to miss! 🎉🎁 🤝 Get to Know Your Community: Connect with fellow community members and build meaningful relationships while celebrating the spirit of togetherness. 🤗❤️ 🔍 Learn More About Local Resources: Discover the wealth of resources available in our community through various organizations, government agencies, and businesses. 💡🏢 Mark your calendars and bring your friends and family along to experience a day filled with joy and discovery. Let's make lasting memories together! Register online for free admission & receive a raffle ticket when you check in. buff.ly/3Dtmena See you at the Community Festival! 🎪🎈 #CommunityFestival #WinCoolPrizes #GetToKnowYourCommunity #DiscoverLocalResources #SaveTheDate #vaousa

🌟 Calling All Vendors! 🌟 We're thrilled to invite you to our Community Festival on 8/26, and we have an amazing opportunity for vendors like YOU! 🎉 As a vendor at our festival, you'll enjoy incredible benefits, including: 🛍️ Showcasing your products/services to a vibrant local community. 📢 Promoting your brand 🤝 Networking with potential customers and partners. 💡 Exploring new opportunities and collaborations. But that's not all! We're excited to offer a NO COST opportunity for any organization or business with an annual budget of $50k or less. We truly want to support and uplift all members of our community! Don't miss out on this opportunity to be a part of an incredible celebration of community spirit! Limited spots available. Sign up today at https://buff.ly/44CNQSJ

Free Lunch*! Free Activities! Free Admission! at our upcoming Community Festival 8/26/23 Register online to receive a raffle ticket when you check in. buff.ly/43FmLNB Ghi danh online để nhận được 1 vé xổ số khi vào cửa. buff.ly/3Q7Pg3p

www.vaousa.org/CommunityFest

a cup of tea can solve anything. Yes.😁! Join us tomorrow @VAO | Tea Party to show your support and encouragement for our young people. 4pm-6pm @A Sack of Potatoes (Vietnam Town)

Quận hạt Santa Clara chấp thuận cho chương trình kinh doanh nấu ăn tại nhà. Phí cho chương trình là $635, cộng $340 cho phí nộp đơn. Các khoản phí này có thể được miễn trong năm đầu tiên hoạt động. Nhấn link phía dưới để biết thêm thông tin và điền đơn. - - - - Santa Clara County Approves Home Kitchen Business Program (Microenterprise Home Kitchen Operation / MEHKO) The proposed fee to operate a MEHKO is $635, with an additional one-time $340 application fee. However, these fees may be waived for the first year of operation. Click link below for more information and to apply for a MEHKO permit. Applications are being accepted now and businesses can begin operating on April 14. https://buff.ly/3Ttt4Af