Guests at the Helping Link fundraisers enjoyed a tasty dinner and gave generously to the nonprofit. (Photo by John Phillips)
Local nonprofit Helping Link celebrated its 20th year helping Vietnamese immigrants integrate into American life while honoring their heritage and traditions at a fundraising gala Sept. 22 at the Mercer Island Community Center.
About 250 community members turned out to hear musical performances and financially support the nonprofit, which is based in the International District. Over $32,000 was raised, according to executive director Minh-Duc Nguyen.
Helping Link honored three local partners who have served the Vietnamese-American community in the greater Seattle area: David Okimoto, former director of the Atlantic Street Center and senior vice president of King County United Way; the National Asian Pacific Center on Aging, which has served as a partner for the last 10 years; and International Community and Health Services, led by CEO Teresita Batayola, which provides multilingual, affordable health care and is now expanding north with a 20,000 square foot clinic in Shoreline.
State Senator Bob Hasegawa delivered the keynote address. (end)
To volunteer or take classes call 206.568.5160 or visit www.helpinglink.org.