CPAF Updates, February Newsletter
In Memoriam
In December, we lost Gayle Hane Wong and Alan Nishio, two highly respected community members whose lives were dedicated to activism and advocacy.
Gayle Hane Wong served on CPAF’s Board of Directors beginning in 2010 and later transitioned into her role as an Advisory Board member until her passing. With a career in commercial real estate, she supported the development and sustainability of CPAF's shelter facilities with her forward thinking. Through her own work in property management at Little Tokyo Service Center (LTSC), Gayle had the residential managers in the buildings she managed trained in domestic violence and sexual assault so they could better respond and be a resource. Even after being diagnosed with cancer, Gayle continued to support CPAF by working together with friends to sell the knitted hats, shawls, and jackets she handmade at craft shows, with half of the proceeds donated to CPAF. We were honored to be included by Gayle’s husband, Craig, as part of the incense offering ceremony at Gayle’s memorial service at the Senshin Buddhist Temple in February, alongside other organizations that were part of Gayle’s life.
As one of CPAF’s Advisory Board members fondly recalls, Alan Nishio was “the master of engaging people.” She adds, “Alan was well-respected among families, friends, and the community. He had so many talents. One of them included his ability to engage with people at any level (young or old), making people feel included, inspired, and empowered. Alan could put anyone at ease. He will be greatly missed.” Alan supported CPAF by serving as the accounting and financial manager for Hands of Hope, a handmade jewelry business run by his wife, Yvonne Nishio, and Naomi Uyeda, both CPAF Advisory Board members, who generously donate proceeds from sales to CPAF.
We are inspired by the tireless efforts and energy that Gayle and Alan poured into the community. Let us continue carrying the light of vision with which they advocated for and created change.
Bank of America
Lunar New Year Celebration
Thank you to one of our long-time partners Bank of America and the Southern California Asian Leadership Network for inviting CPAF to their dinner celebration in honor of Lunar New Year. We are grateful for the opportunity to attend along with our partner organization, Chinatown Service Center, and share with 450 staff about CPAF's services and ways to get involved. We had a great time!
Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month
CPAF kicked off Teen Dating Violence Awareness Month in February with a healthy relationship workshop at the Chinatown Branch of the L.A. Public Library. The workshop brought awareness of teen dating violence, and gave youth tools and resources to set boundaries, communicate, and help a friend in need. Participants learned that boundaries and consent can also apply to family relationships. The group engaged in a culturally specific conversation regarding parent-child dynamics - recognizing that accountability (or lack thereof) modeled to them by adults in their lives does not have to be the behavior that they choose in themselves. By the end of the workshop, youth were more willing to be advocates for themselves and others!
If you’d like to get involved with CPAF’s prevention programs, send us an inquiry through our “Connect with us!” forms on this page: Prevent Violence
Join CPAF's Board of Directors
As two esteemed members of our Board of Directors, Daniel Fan and Erwin Pineda, reach the end of their Board terms and transition to our Advisory Board, we express our gratitude for their dedication and invaluable contributions to CPAF. Dan's leadership as Chair of the Executive Transition Committee last year was instrumental in securing our fabulous new Executive Director, Patima Komolamit, while Erwin's stewardship as Chair of our Facilities Committee has been key in ensuring the smooth operation of our vital programs. Their commitment and passion have left an indelible mark on our organization, and we extend our heartfelt thanks for their many years of service.
In light of these recent openings on our Board, we are excited to announce opportunities for individuals who are passionate about our mission to join CPAF's Board of Directors. If you are interested in making a meaningful impact and contributing to the empowerment of survivors and creating a safer and more equitable future for all, we encourage you to review our board job description and submit your application online.
Board Job Description
Online Board Application Form
Thank you for considering this important role in our organization and for your continued support as we work together to create positive change.