Chinese American Association of Watertown, Massachusetts

The Chinese American Association of Watertown, Massachusetts (CAAWatertown or CAAW) fosters cultural unity, community empowerment, and social integration for individuals of Chinese heritage in the Watertown area. Our mission is to promote understanding and appreciation of Chinese culture, creating a supportive and inclusive environment that celebrates diversity, encourages collaboration, and enhances community well-being through cultural events, education, and engagement.

CAAW is lead by a board of volunteers who are passionate about sharing the Chinese cultural heritage, but above all else, we are friends and enjoy spending time together as a community.

Goals

Cultural Preservation

• Preserve, promote, and celebrate Chinese culture, traditions, and heritage within the Watertown community.
• Organize cultural events, festivals, and activities that showcase the richness of Chinese history, arts, and traditions.

Community Empowerment

• Empower Chinese Americans in Watertown through education, resources, and support networks.
• Provide platforms for skill development, mentorship, and leadership opportunities to strengthen community members.

Inclusivity and Diversity

• Foster an inclusive environment that embraces diversity within the Chinese American community.
• Encourage collaboration and understanding among individuals from various backgrounds and generations.

Education and Awareness

• Promote education about Chinese culture, history, and contemporary issues.
• Raise awareness within the Watertown community about the contributions and experiences of Chinese Americans.

Social Integration

• Facilitate social integration by organizing social events, networking opportunities, and community gatherings.
• Create spaces for members to build connections, friendships, and a sense of belonging within the larger community.

Philanthropy and Community Service

• Engage in philanthropic initiatives that address the needs of the broader Watertown community.
• Encourage volunteerism and community service activities to give back and strengthen ties with the local community.

Civic Engagement

• Encourage active civic participation and advocacy among Chinese Americans in Watertown.
• Provide resources and information to empower community members to engage in local governance and civic activities.

Youth and Next Generation Development

• Invest in the development and well-being of the younger generation within the Chinese American community.
• Create educational programs, mentorship opportunities, and youth-focused activities to support their growth and cultural identity.

Collaboration and Partnerships

• Establish collaborations and partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and educational institutions.
• Work together to create synergies that enhance the impact of the association’s initiatives and benefit the broader community.

Health and Wellness

• Prioritize the health and well-being of community members.
• Provide resources and programs that address both physical and mental health needs within the Chinese American community.

Board Members

The board members comprise of the president, treasurer, secretary/clerk, director of the board, and a number of members-at-large. Not all member-at-large are voting positions, and they do not have predefined roles and responsibilities. They help direct/steer the direction of the organization in terms of events participation and collaboration with the community to provide meaningful connections aligned with the CAAW mission. Candidates for board members are appointed by the existing board, and when more than one candidate is interested in a voting position, an election will be held at the annual CAAW meeting in September.

History

A brief highlight of each year’s accomplishments and board members are in the expandable sections below.

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