The Western Union Company, known for its money transfer services, is supporting programs that help immigrants adapt to their new American life as well as preserve and honor their ethnic heritage. Western Union has announced its sponsorship of the Lao Highland Association’s (LHA) Mien language program at a kickoff event that was held at LHA’s office in Seattle. The program, designed for Laotian Americans, is an opportunity to learn or improve Mien language skills and gain a greater knowledge of Lao’s rich cultural heritage. It is open to all who are interested.
“LHA is eager to make this program a success,” said Mey Saephanh, executive director. “As a nonprofit organization, we don’t always have the monetary resources to build programs like this. With the generosity of Western Union, we are finally able to give our members a program that will teach the language of their birthright and chronicle the history of the homeland.”
“Western Union values diversity and understands the importance of preserving one’s culture,” said Echo Huang, marketing manager of Western Union. “We chose to work with LHA because of its commitment to the community and its dedication to helping second and third generation Laotian Americans learn more about their heritage and trace their roots. We hope to help eliminate language barriers and improve communications between families living here and back home.” ♦