2024 Review: A Year with Collective Impacts

A Year with Collective Impacts and Authentic Connections — Messages from WAVES Executive Director Lily Chen

Dear UCA WAVES family,

Writing this letter feels much like composing my annual family Christmas update, as WAVES truly feels like an extended family. As we embark on our ninth year of advocating for and serving our beloved community, there are many exciting firsts to celebrate.

This year marks a significant milestone for WAVES as we become an independent 501(c)(3) organization (while still remaining an important part of the larger UCA family). This transition allows us to focus more locally in North Carolina while continuing to serve and advocate for all our community members with culturally and linguistically relevant education. It is also the first time we’ve hosted a national mental health summit, featuring 15 educational sessions and over 50 speakers.

The most rewarding part, however, has been reconnecting with so many new and old friends—a true family reunion. Additionally, this year has afforded me the esteemed opportunity to advocate at the highest levels of government, including at the White House, on behalf of our community. We also conducted original research in AAPI communities, where significant health disparities exist. After nearly two years of trials and adjustments, our WAVES village online support group is finally poised to officially replicate its model, so is our WAVES Maker (formerly Youth Ambassadors) which got rebranded and launched with a new focus on supporting and developing the next generation of AAPI workforce.

This year has been impactful in every way, but what makes it truly unforgettable are the authentic connections we’ve made with our most amazing team members and volunteers who truly amaze me every day, and our extended family. Your steadfast encouragement, support, and commitment have fueled us, empowering us to continue riding WAVES (Wellness, Advocacy, Voices, Education, and Support) through challenging waters and making a lasting difference in young lives.

We are deeply grateful to have so many of you as part of the WAVES family, and we hope you enjoy reading our 2024 Year in Review. Please continue to ride WAVES with us in the New Year.

Wishing you a Happy New Year 2025, the Year of the Snake! 🙂

Warmly,

Lily Chen

Founder and Executive Director

UCA WAVES