At a recent fundraising gala organized by the United Mutual Association, we had the chance to sit down with some of the notable attendees. Among them was acupuncturist Dr. Meilan Jiao, who generously provided free medical consultations during the event. Observers included lawyer Albert Wai-kit Chan, Jean Lai Tong, Stanley Kung, and Ken Cheung, all of whom play vital roles within the organization.
Held at the Flying Queen Restaurant in Flushing, New York, this gala not only served as an annual fundraiser but also marked the 2024 staff induction ceremony. The event prominently featured twelve tables and welcomed distinguished guests like New York State Senator John Liu and his assistant Lily Ma.
The evening buzzed with excitement, thanks to activities such as karaoke fundraisers, auctions, and raffles that kept guests actively engaged. Janet Leow emerged as the fundraising champion in the karaoke segment, while the awards for best performance went to teacher Chen Sitang and Danny Lam, who took home the coveted Golden Voice award. The grand prize of an iPad was drawn by Chen Peizhen, with additional prizes awarded to Annie Yin and Nancy Cheung.
In a significant gesture of support, the organization awarded scholarships to four deserving students: college student Yue Liu and high school students Farrah Yuen, Teresa Lau, and Scout Chen.
Since its inception as a nonprofit designated under 501(C)(3) in April 2015, the United Mutual Association has depended on volunteers to drive its initiatives. The newly appointed leadership team for the 2024-2026 term features Honorary President Albert Wai-kit Chan, founding President Jean Lai Tong, President Stanley Kung, along with Vice Presidents Alfred Chan, Patrick Lau, and Betty Lai, among others.
Just days after the inauguration, Honorary President Chan hosted a tea gathering in Flushing for over ten executive members, where he expressed heartfelt gratitude for their hard work in orchestrating the gala. Special acknowledgment was also given to Dr. Jiao and her colleague Sun Jie for their invaluable contributions to the community through traditional Chinese medicine consultations.
Tracing its roots back to the New York United Women Association, established in March 2006, and evolving into the New York United Mutual Association in 2010, the organization has consistently focused on promoting “Happy & Healthy Longevity.” Its mission centers on engaging with the Chinese community in New York, particularly in supporting the elderly in embracing life and adapting to new information environments, while also fostering youth participation in community service.
For more information about the United Mutual Association, interested parties can reach out at 718-321-1815, send mail to P.O. Box 528295, Flushing, NY 11352, or visit their website at www.uma-ny.org.