ASIA Families Raises $76,458 to Support Korean Adoptees
▶ Fundraising Dinner, “Under the Tree,” Brings Together Adoptees, Families and Community Leaders
The Legacy of Leadership Award ceremony is underway. Pictured from left are Consul General Moon In-seok, Advisor Kim Chan-soo, award recipient Jayme Hansen, President Song Hwa-gang, and Board Chair Mary Anne Wiley.
ASIA Families, led by Executive Director Grace Song, raised $76,458 at its annual fundraising dinner, “Under the Tree,” held Oct. 1 at the Silver Spring Civic Center in Maryland.
The event brought together 84 guests, including Korean adoptees, adoptive families and community leaders. Attendees reflected on ASIA Families’ 17-year journey and the meaning behind the event’s theme: “Deep-rooted trees do not sway in the wind.”
Grace Song, founder and executive director of ASIA Families, said, “Seventeen years ago, after learning about the heartbreaking experiences of a Korean adoptee, I started ASIA Families with the hope of sharing in the joys and challenges faced by adoptees. Today, the organization has grown into a strong and supportive tree for adult adoptees, young adoptees and their families.”
Funds raised through the event will support a variety of programs for adoptees, including Camp Rice, a Korean culture program for young adoptees; support for adult adoptee networks; Korea Tours; and assistance with birth-family searches.
In his remarks, Consul General In-seok Moon said, “I was deeply moved to see the children performing Korean cultural programs with such enthusiasm, as well as the young adoptees who have grown into remarkable adults.”
He also said that a recent Korea Times article about Mary Klein gave him a deeper understanding of the experiences and challenges adoptees face. He pledged his continued interest in and support for the adoptee community.
During the Leadership Awards ceremony, Jayme Hansen was presented with the “Legacy of Leadership Award” in recognition of her longstanding dedication to ASIA Families and the Korean adoptee community.
The evening also featured a special performance by Sella Art, led by director Jung-hee Kim, adding to the festive atmosphere. Advisor Chan-soo Kim prepared and distributed Korean snacks donated by Rhee Brothers, represented by Robin Rhee, as gifts for attendees.
Photographer Sung-wook Lee also volunteered his services to capture memorable moments from the evening and provide the photographs to ASIA Families.
For more information about ASIA Families, contact (703) 999-4206 or info@asiafamilies.org.