Dear AWC family,
Happy Lunar New Year, everyone — Year of the Blue Dragon! In Asian cultures, dragons symbolize power, wisdom, honesty, kindness, auspiciousness and success. May 2024, the Year of the Blue Dragon, bring you all good health, growth, prosperity, happiness and abundance.
I’m proud to say that AWC’s New Year’s Gala in January was an evening of happiness, kindness, success and abundance. More than 365 community members gathered to raise money for charity, have fun with friends and forge new connections. My heart was so full seeing so many dear friends, community members, generous sponsors and donors coming together in unity, celebration and advocacy for our community.
Collectively, the gala raised more than 70 million won to support our local charities — including Korea Legacy Committee, Open Arms Korea, Haesimwon and Planting Love — as well as philanthropic efforts and educational outreach programs. I want to thank 0ur amazing AWC volunteer gala committee and board members, our more than 70 sponsors and donors and the gala attendees for making the event such a success. (See photos!)
As I reflect on the past year with AWC, I am so proud of our community. We are 150 members strong, with a diverse membership hailing from 17 different countries. In 2023, we offered more than 100 events and activities to foster cultural exchange, education and friendship. AWC also works with about 30 partner affiliates and organizations to create community and share resources (see below for the latest additions!). Through our membership and partnerships, we come together to forge friendships and connectivity, develop a sisterhood and support our community through charitable contributions. AWC is a place we invite everyone to call home, where they can find a sense of comfort, “family” and a place to just be.
To reiterate the New Year’s wish I shared at the gala: Please pause to reflect on how blessed we are to be part of this wonderful community here in Korea. May you continue to be gracious and kind to yourself and to each other, to support each other in times of need, to offer a helping hand and compassion to friends and strangers. These gestures of kindness, no matter how big or small, can make a difference for those you encounter. Be the change.
Together we can make a difference, in unity and in celebration of our community. I wish you all a happy and healthy New Year.
Betty Chung
AWC Korea President
