Programs 2

Pacific Asian Empowerment Program (PAEP)

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ELDERS ARE AN ASSET TO THE COMMUNITY

Elders in the Asian culture are revered because of their wisdom

and expertise. As the noted American icon Andy Rooney aptly wrote:

“I learned ….that the best classroom in the world is at the feet of

an elderly.”

PAEP recognizes this asset and has successfully relied on the seniors

as the leaders of the four groups we serve with great results.

Elders are either retired or semi-retired and have the time for community work. They are a rich resource for volunteers in the kitchen, as greeters, as leaders in the dance and exercise program and in fundraising activities.

They are an excellent conduit to the younger and affluent members of the ethnic community whom we rely on for donations and volunteer support.

PARTICIPATORY MANAGEMENT

The style of management of PAEP is participatory. All programs are

discussed with the community to ensure that they understand and

accept the program. We listen to their inputs and in most occasions

are incorporated in their program. For example for health enhancing

activities the Filipinos like modern dancing and line dancing, some

Laotians like Lamvong, an ethnic dance, the Hmong are partial to

military type calisthenics while the Polynesians are partial to dances

similar to Hula dance. By getting them involved they become more

committed and we are able to tap a rich source for volunteers from the

communities we serve.

In our nutrition programs, our year end survey reveals the following results.

700 senior clients, 350 of which are regulars, 200 are needy adults below age 60, at least 30 are in active need at any given time.

In 2005, over 30,000 meals were served.

57% attend the program twice a week, 30% once a week and 13% once or twice a month.

Reasons for attending the programs are: 29% for socialization, 23% for the healthy ethnic meals, 17% for the dancing and exercise, 14% for the blood pressure monitoring, 13% for the food bank and 8% for the various workshops on health, citizenship, ESL, etc.

92% expressed complete satisfaction with services while 8% said the music is too loud and sometimes the food is salty.

In return most clients give a donation from $0.50 to $ 2.00 each. Many serve as volunteer drivers in bringing the elders home, greeters and help in table setting and cleaning up after the program.