Preparations are well underway to mobilize the Asian American community for participation in the upcoming national census.
 
On June 23rd, ACA President Ron Wong and Executive Director Shenlin Chen were invited to a round table discussion with Gary Locke, Secretary of the Regional US Census Bureau office. Over 20 community and faith-based organizations were present to provide their input on how to better engage their communities.
 
Secretary Locke urged his staff to partner with local community leaders to create a grassroots movement. In addition, the Census Bureau hopes to encourage more responses in 2010 by limiting the lengthy questionnaire to only ten or so questions.
 
Because many undocumented immigrants or temporary visitors fear legal prosecution if they partake in the census, ACA has already launched informational sessions to reassure the community. The July 29 session drew over 90 youth participants and highlighted that participation in Census 2010 will be both safe and beneficial for the community.

It has been a lively summer at ACA! Since mid-June, children enrolled at the youth summer camp have been able to attend a diverse range of cultural classes and activities.

Among this year's featured activities are Chinese language classes, painting, abacus lessons, making dumplings, craft projects, and a number of field trips. The campers recently returned from a visit to Lansing where they learned all about the state's capital.

ACA's summer youth camp is celebrating its 10th anniversary educating and inspiring the community's youth. The theme this year was "V.I.P. Value! Integrity! Passion!"

Summer visitors may have noticed that the Chinese Community Center has been treated to a new coat of paint. And thanks to the efforts of numerous volunteers, blooming flowers and healthy shrubs fill the Center's surrounding landscape.
 
Since last year, the Center has been undergoing minor maintenance projects, including pothole repairs and new cement work along the building's base. The Center's interior has also been repainted.
 
The facilities are frequently rented for weddings, birthday parties, receptions and festivals, and with these latest updates, the Center is sure to attract more visitors and users.