San Diego FASCA Members Turn Gratitude into Action Through Refugee Support Event

Consulting mentor Irene Wang (Row 1 Right 1), Marian Liu (Row 1 Right 2), Project Leader Albert Job (Row 2 Right 3).

The FASCA-SD volunteers dove into their assignments with enthusiasm when food arrived.

Members gathered 75 bags of potatoes to work on distribution for 140 families.

The group discussed what they learned after finishing their owkr.

Just before Thanksgiving 2025, on November 26, members of the San Diego Chapter of the Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors (FASCA-SD) gathered at St. Dunstan’s Church to support a volunteer initiative with Helping Empower Community Refugees (HECR). The timing made the experience especially meaningful as students contributed to the spirit of gratitude and service.

FASCA-SD members assisted with organizing food donations, sorting supplies, and preparing packages to assist 140 families totaling 767 people across the San Diego community. Though the work was physically demanding, volunteers stayed energized by the purpose behind the effort—helping families facing difficult circumstances.

After finishing their work, the group discussed what they'd learned. Volunteers recognized how initial overwhelming challenges become manageable through flexibility, teamwork, and shared commitment. They expressed fulfillment in participating in such an effective and consequential initiative during this reflective time of year.

 "Although this was during Thanksgiving break, when not many people could volunteer, I felt that the efforts of the small volunteering team definitely improved the lives of these refugee families. Being a leader doesn't just mean leading others; it also means that you help people in their time of need, taking initiative to improve lives one person at a time." said Austin Jow, one of the FASCA-SD members.

The day concluded with FASCA-SD members reflecting on their impact. As they departed St. Dunstan's Church, the team recognized how their service embodied true leadership. In the spirit of Thanksgiving, they had turned gratitude into action, supporting refugee families across San Diego.

Reported by: Albert Jow, FASCA San Diego Project Leader

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About FASCA-SD

The Formosa Association of Student Cultural Ambassadors – San Diego empowers Taiwanese American youth to develop leadership skills, promote cultural exchange, and serve their local communities through education and outreach initiatives.

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