Opinion: Saratoga-based nonprofit empowers residents to vote
Asian Americans for a Better Community is a force for positive change.
In last month’s column, I shared my desire to highlight the countless number of service organizations in our city and county that enhance our community’s well-being. This month’s focus is to highlight a little-known organization that is doing great things.
In the heart of Saratoga, a nonprofit organization called Asian Americans for a Better Community (AABC) has been quietly but powerfully making a difference since its formation in late 2017. Dedicated to promoting community services, civic engagement and voter education, AABC has quickly become a vital force for positive change in the Silicon Valley area.
The organization’s mission includes encouraging residents to pay more attention to local government affairs, fostering community appreciation and unity and empowering residents to participate in elections.
AABC was founded by a group of passionate individuals from Saratoga, who saw the need for bringing people from different cultural and religious backgrounds together to serve the community with common interests and goals. Its mission is to make the South Bay “better for all people, one community at a time.”
In 2018, AABC organized events in the midterm election to “Meet the Candidates” and “Understand your Ballot.” Thanks to English-Mandarin translation at these events, many residents who speak only Chinese were able to learn more about the candidates and issues to make educated choices when they voted.
In subsequent election cycles, AABC has continued to offer similar events to communities in the Silicon Valley, Saratoga included. It has also played a vital role in ensuring that the voices of Asian Americans in the local community are heard and their concerns addressed.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, AABC stepped up to support the community by donating masks to local fire departments, hospitals and senior centers. The organization has also extended its support to causes beyond Saratoga, including the Paradise Fire victims, Paradise High School Scholarship program, Turkey earthquake relief and victims of the Half Moon Bay farm tragedy, to name just a few.
As part of its efforts to engage the community and celebrate Asian culture, AABC has hosted an annual Dragon Boat Festival since 2022. This year, the festival will take place on June 8, 11 a.m.-2 p.m., at West Valley College. It promises to be a day of fun-filled activities and cultural celebration for all to enjoy, says Saratoga resident Huelling Su, who has served as the president of AABC since 2019.
Those interested in joining AABC as an active member or volunteer can email Su at suhuelling88@gmail.com.
Overall, Asian Americans for a Better Community stands as a shining example of the impact that a dedicated group of individuals can have on their community. Through their commitment to service, advocacy and unity, AABC continues to make Saratoga a better place for all its residents.