Oganization of Chinese Americans Announces Unsung Heroes Awardees

Washington DC – OCA, a national organization dedicated to advancing the political, social, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans (APAs), is proud to announce its 2008-2009 OCA/General Motors Unsung Heroes.

“GM has been a long time supporter of the Unsung Heroes Award and we are honored to recognize five highly outstanding OCA members who tirelessly dedicated their time and efforts to ensure their chapter’s success,” said OCA National President Ken Lee.

The awardees will be recognized at a presentation ceremony during the OCA Gala Awards Banquet. The Awards Banquet will be held on August 8 during OCA’s National Convention in San Francisco. All OCA members, except OCA Chapter Presidents, Executive Council members and National Staff are eligible for this award.

“GM highly values volunteerism, and is committed to sponsoring organizations and programs that support the Asian Pacific American community. We are proud of introducing and being a long time supporter of the OCA/GM Unsung Heroes Award for the ninth year to bring recognition to deserving individuals working for the betterment of the Asian Pacific American community," said Roderick Gillum, vice president, GM Corporate Responsibility and Diversity.

“The Unsung Heroes are highly motivated members who volunteer their time to work behind the scenes and let others take the credit,” said OCA Executive Director George Wu, “OCA believes it is important to recognize each of these individuals who devote themselves to their chapters and to their community.”

The 2008-2009 Unsung Heroes Awardees are as follows:

Anna Wong (OCA-Wisconsin) has been a member of OCA-WI for over twenty years and is currently serving on the board as Communication Chair. She has organized events like the OCA-WI 20^th Anniversary Scholarship Party and the OCA Holiday Booth at Milwaukee’s International Holiday Folk Fair. Anna selflessly dedicates herself to OCA-WI events and lends a helping hand whenever needed.

Benjamin Yeung (OCA-San Mateo) is Chair of Events and Fundraising. He has planned events such as “Health Care Issues in the APA Community.” He also provides his time and efforts to numerous events including the chapter’s Scholarship Program, Speak and Lead With Pride program, and the Annual Chapter Awards Gala and Fundraiser. Benjamin acts as an unseen backbone to the chapter.

George Yin (OCA-Greater Los Angeles) has been an OCA member for over a decade. He was the driving force behind organizing an artist reception with a renowned painter from China. He also organized “Summer Relief”, an event to raise money for relief efforts for the survivors of the Myanmar andChina disasters. No matter how small a task, George is always there to lend a hand.

Ian C. Lim (OCA-Dallas/Fort Worth) has served on the chapter board for two years and is currently the Program Chair. He enthusiastically devoted his time to ensure the success of OCA-DFW’s New Year Banquet, a major fundraising event for the chapter, and booths at various Asian Festivals celebrating Asian/Pacific Heritage Month. He also organized a special dragon boat training which succeeded in recruiting new OCA members.

Joan S. Jia ( OCA-Westchester & Hudson Valley) is a current chapter board member. Along with the time she volunteers at every chapter event, Joan has also chaired the organization committee for Asian American Heritage festival, led Youth Green Initiative, and co-chaired the Asian natural disaster relief fundraising activities. Joan is filled with energy and great ideas, and consistently challenges herself and her fellow board members to find ways to make every event bigger and more impactful.

Founded in 1973 as the Organization of Chinese Americans, OCA is a national organization, with over 80 chapters and affiliates, dedicated to advancing the social, political, and economic well-being of Asian Pacific Americans.