The Asian Americans for Community Involvement (AACI) is transforming the lives of seniors in California, particularly those facing isolation and health challenges exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic. For 75-year-old Mabel Yuen, the organization has provided much-needed support during a time of profound loneliness and change.
Yuen, a resident of Cupertino, recalls the difficulties she faced during the pandemic, including the loss of her husband 33 years ago and her own health issues. Following surgery during the pandemic, she struggled to connect with others. “I called people. I knocked on the door for a neighbor, none of them responded because of COVID. People were scared of me,” Yuen shared.
Seeking help, she reached out to Eunice Cheng, the Senior Wellness Program manager at AACI. This connection proved to be a turning point for Yuen, who benefited from AACI’s various services, including hot meal deliveries and regular counseling support.
Building Connections Through Community Support
AACI, established in 1973, originally aimed to assist Southeast Asian refugees resettling after the Vietnam War. Its Senior Wellness Program has since grown to serve over 900 older adults with low incomes or language barriers. The organization offers culturally relevant programs, including fitness classes and educational workshops, designed to foster community and independence among seniors.
Cheng emphasized the organization’s commitment to inclusivity, saying, “We do not charge them money. We know they are immigrants. We try to make it easy for them to receive information, to communicate in their language.” This approach has not only provided essential services but has also created a welcoming environment for seniors who often feel isolated.
Yuen’s journey at AACI led her to participate in online activities, including a popular “Armchair Travel” class conducted by Gracia Del Rosario. Del Rosario, an ESL instructor, aimed to bring the world to seniors who could not travel. “To go on a vacation, you need time, money, and physical strength,” she explained. “I thought, maybe I could bring the countries of the world through Zoom to people who cannot travel outside the country.”
Through this innovative program, Yuen connected with other seniors, including her friend Claudia Hau, 80, from Fremont. Together, they explored different cultures, sharing experiences that enriched their lives. “I really appreciate that AACI takes care of the seniors,” said Hau, highlighting the organization’s crucial role in their well-being.
Facing Funding Challenges
Despite its positive impact, AACI confronts significant challenges due to recent funding cuts. The organization has experienced an 18% reduction in federal funding for its disease prevention program, following the passage of HR1, a tax bill signed into law in July 2025. Furthermore, AACI is now serving 20% more meals than budgeted, with the Santa Clara County Senior Nutrition Program unable to cover the surplus costs.
Cheng has been proactive in seeking additional funding sources to meet the growing demand for services. “If they don’t have family support, they will not be independent,” she noted, emphasizing the importance of community resources for seniors.
Many seniors at AACI rely on food stamps, and changes in qualification criteria can significantly impact their access to essential services. Cheng underscored the need for clear communication and support, stating, “A lot of the time, people have difficulties just because no one understands them.”
To address these issues, AACI is building networks with other organizations, reinforcing the idea that collaboration is vital for community support. The organization aims to raise $25,000 through the Wish Book initiative, which will enable nearly 200 older adults to participate in social engagement activities through the Senior Wellness Program.
The Wish Book, a nonprofit organization operated by The Mercury News since 1983, invites readers to contribute to fulfilling the wishes of those in need during the holiday season. Donations can be made at wishbook.mercurynews.com/donate.
As AACI continues to navigate these challenges, its commitment to enhancing the lives of seniors remains unwavering. By providing vital resources and fostering connections, the organization is not only helping individuals like Mabel Yuen rediscover joy but also strengthening the community as a whole.
