Asian American and Pacific Islander
(AAPI) Heritage Month
May is Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month—a time to celebrate and support AAPI communities. First recognized as a week in 1977 and expanded to a month in 1990, this observance highlights both achievements and challenges, including ongoing discrimination. While some in the AAPI community appreciate the recognition, others may feel tokenized or burdened by the need to educate others. Deed encourages social impact leaders to amplify AAPI voices, foster meaningful conversations, and share the resources provided to deepen understanding and drive meaningful action.
The Asian American Foundation
The Asian American Foundation (TAAF) works to advance equity, justice, and belonging for AAPI communities. TAAF focuses on four key areas: funding organizations that support AAPI communities, integrating AAPI history and contributions into U.S. education, combating discrimination through anti-hate initiatives, and amplifying authentic AAPI storytelling in media and culture. TAAF is building a future where AAPIs are seen, heard, and empowered by mobilizing resources, fostering partnerships, and advocating for systemic change.
Asian Mental Health Collective
May is also Mental Health Awareness Month, making it the perfect time to spotlight the Asian Mental Health Collective (AMHC). AMHC is dedicated to normalizing and destigmatizing mental health care within Asian communities worldwide. Through initiatives like their Therapist Directory, they connect individuals with culturally competent mental health professionals, while programs like Facebook peer support groups and the Lotus Therapy Fund provide financial aid and community support. By promoting awareness, education, and accessibility, AMHC empowers Asian individuals to prioritize their mental well-being.
AAPI Equity Alliance
AAPI Equity Alliance (AAPI EA) is a coalition of over 40 community-based organizations dedicated to advancing the rights and well-being of Asian American and Pacific Islander communities in Southern California. They focus on advocacy, policy initiatives, and community engagement to address key issues like anti-Asian hate, economic justice, and language access. Through programs such as voter education, leadership development, and legislative advocacy, AAPI EA empowers AAPI voices and creates systemic change
National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum
National Asian Pacific American Women's Forum builds collective power with AAPI women and girls to gain full agency over our lives, our families, and our communities. The organization has multiple chapters across the United States which host many volunteer events focused on phone banking, policy research and other advocacy opportunities.
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging (NAPCA)
National Asian Pacific Center on Aging is a advocacy and service organization committed to the dignity, well-being and quality of life of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiian and other Pacific Islanders as they age. NAPCA assists AAPI seniors and educates the public on their needs. Volunteers can support programs like the Senior Community Service Employment Program, assist with the multilingual helpline, and participate in community outreach to enhance the well-being of AAPI elders.
Nonprofit Recommendations
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