Why We Do What We Do

We wanted to share a quote from an attendee of the recent UCA WAVES Open House that deeply touched us:

“Thank you for inviting me to the UCA WAVES open house. I am grateful that you have created a shared space where AAPI community members and advocates can come together with a sense of belonging.

As I continue reflecting on what identity, belonging, and purpose mean to me, I am also thinking about how to turn that reflection into meaningful action. I was initially drawn to UCA WAVES because of my professional transition from military officer to mental health counselor. What I experienced at the open house, however, felt more personal: a reconnection with a part of my AAPI identity that had not always been as visible in my professional life.

It was the first time in some time that I had been in a room filled with professionals who looked like me and who were openly advocating for mental health and their communities. That left a lasting impression on me. I am grateful for the shared space UCA WAVES has created for AAPI community members and advocates to connect.

I look forward to staying connected and finding meaningful ways to contribute to the community.”

This embodies so much of what we aim to do—connect and inspire. The importance of creating spaces where members of our community feel seen and identity is celebrated cannot be understated. Whether it’s providers with lived experience advocating for the importance of culturally informed care, or peers offering up their stories and support to demonstrate solidarity, AAPI representation in conversations about mental health remains integral for creating lasting change.

If you’re feeling just as empowered as we are after that testimonial, then we want to formally invite you to join us in our mission. Click on the button below to learn how you can get involved and give back today.