Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month commemorates the generations of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders who have enriched and shaped America’s history. Asian Americans are among the fastest-growing populations in New York City, and the umbrella term Asian American includes significant diversity—representing more than 30 different ethnic groups that speak more than 50 languages. You can support the region’s many AAPI communities by giving to groups that provide culturally appropriate health care, education, and advocacy for immigrant and workers’ rights.
HEALTH AND WELLNESS
India Home is the city’s largest secular organization serving South Asian older adults, a fast-growing population. Services include meals that meet members’ dietary and religious needs, health and wellness, case management, housing, social activities, and engaging older adults in advocacy and awareness campaigns.
WESTCHESTER: SPEAK started in Westchester County in 2024 after its founder discovered there was not a single mental health organization tailored to the Asian American community, despite the county’s rapidly growing Asian American population. SPEAK destigmatizes and normalizes mental health care while connecting Asian Americans to culturally and linguistically sensitive mental health resources.
BUILDING COMMUNITY LEADERSHIP
Adhikaar for Human Rights and Social Justice is a women-led community and workers’ center that provides direct services to the Nepali-speaking community and organizes workers to promote social justice and human rights. The organization provides workshops, training, and case support for members on immigration, workers’ rights, and housing.
DRUM—Desis Rising Up and Moving is a member-led organization of 6,000 working-class South Asian and Indo-Caribbean New Yorkers that advocates for social and economic justice. DRUM supports campaigns for causes such as educational equity, fair workplace conditions, immigrant rights, and climate justice.
Coalition for Asian American Children and Families is the nation’s only pan-Asian children and families’ advocacy organization that brings together community-based organizations, young people, and community allies to fight for equity for Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders.
SOCIAL SERVICES
Mekong NYC brings dignity and value to the lives of Southeast Asians in the Bronx and throughout New York City through community organizing, arts and culture, and creating a strong social safety net, including through interpretation services and connecting individuals to public benefits.
Project Ready supports teenagers and young adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities and their families, in particular Asian American immigrant families. Program services focus on encouraging independence, removing language barriers, and helping participants prepare for and successfully transition out of school.
This list is not exhaustive. There are many incredible nonprofits helping make our region a better place for all; we seek to highlight a few that may not already be on your radar. Please reach out to our philanthropic advising department at advising@thenytrust.org if you are a donor seeking customized recommendations based on your charitable goals.
