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32585 Concord Drive
Hero Story
The Teen Volunteer Council (TVC) is the youth volunteer group of the Association of Chinese Americans (ACA), which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1972. The TVC was founded in 2019. It currently has 110 dedicated youth members, representing 36 middle and high schools across five counties in Southeast Michigan.The mission of the TVC is to empowering youth through community service by focusing on supporting disadvantaged
communities, promoting Asian American heritage, leadership development, and community engagement & collaboration. They aim to inspire positive change, foster inclusivity, and develop young leaders who are passionate about creating a more connected and compassionate world. The TVC is an opportunity for students to develop valuable leadership skills while contributing to the Asian American Community.
The TVC has been a driving force in youth community service, engaging in four key areas: (I) Supporting Disadvantaged Communities, (II) Promoting Asian American Heritage, (III) Leadership Development, and (IV) Community Engagement & Collaboration. From 2022 to 2025, 110 TVC members contributed 4,571 volunteer hours, directly benefiting over 20,000 people across five Southeast Michigan counties. They raised $8,617 and donated/spent $5,427 on service initiatives.
I. Supporting Disadvantaged Communities
TVC has made a tangible impact on vulnerable populations through tutoring, donations, and direct service efforts:
1. Tutoring for Under-Resourced Children (2023-2025): TVC has provided 1,574 hours of free tutoring in English and math to children from low-income immigrant families, fostering long-term mentorship and academic improvement. (42 volunteers)
2. Assisting Special Needs Individuals (2023-2025): Partnering with FAR Therapeutic Arts & Recreation, TVC has donated $1,535 in art therapy supplies and supported FAR clients through creative projects and holiday care packages. (60 volunteers, 168 hours)
3. Senior Community Garden Maintenance (2023-2025): TVC has maintained three community gardens, ensuring fresh produce for local seniors. (39 volunteers, 837 hours)
4. Supporting Senior Facilities (2023-2024): TVC donated $1,000 to ACA’s GiveInMay campaigns, contributing to the purchase of a 15-passenger van for senior transportation and community center renovations.
5. Providing Winter Gear & Food for Low-Income Children (2022): TVC made and donated 20 blankets to Detroit Public Schools students and participated in ACA’s “Fight Hunger, Share the Warmth” initiative. (18 volunteers, 40 hours)
6. Food Bank Assistance (2023): TVC members packed over 1,860 pounds of food at Gleaners Community Food Bank, serving 1,488 meals to underserved Michigan communities. (4 volunteers, 10 hours)
II. Promoting Asian American Heritage
TVC actively promotes cultural awareness through performances, workshops, and digital storytelling:
1. Cultural Events (2019-2025): Since its founding, TVC has participated in four Lunar New Year Fairs, two Asian Festivals, two Cultural Togetherness Fairs, and various school and library events, sharing Asian traditions with over 15,000 attendees. (104 volunteers, 1,537 hours, $6,427 funds raised)
2. AAPI Heritage Blog (2024): TVC launched an Asian American heritage awareness blog during AAPI Heritage Month. (1 volunteer, 40 hours) Blog can be viewed in this link: https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/blogs
3. ACA Virtual Reading Program (2021): TVC members engaged participants in weekly discussions on books related to Asian American experiences, adoption, and culture. (4 volunteers, about 40 hours)
III. Leadership Development
TVC empowers Asian American youth through leadership training and civic engagement:
1. Leadership Workshop – Speak Up! (2024): TVC launched a confidence-building and public speaking workshop, offering scholarships and securing a $300 grant for future programs. (10 participants, 140 hours)
2. Student Leadership for Asian American Youth (SLAAY) (2025): TVC members engage in discussions on immigration policies, hate crimes, and the model minority myth to empower future Asian American leaders. (6 participants, 9 hours)
3. National Conferences (2024-2025): TVC directors attended national conferences like the NAFFAA Conference, OCA National Convention, and JACL/OCA Leadership Summit for valuable networking and professional growth opportunities. (9 participants, 75 hours)
IV. Community Engagement & Collaboration
TVC fosters community spirit through sports, fundraising, and local projects:
1. One-Day Tennis Clinic (2024): TVC hosted a tennis clinic for K-8 students, led by high school athletes. (8 volunteers, 63 hours, 35 participants)
2. 5K Culture Course (2022): A successful $1,890 fundraising event with 100 participants from Michigan, New York, and California, strengthening Asian American community ties. (7 volunteers, 128 hours)
3. ACA Library Project (2019-2021): TVC cataloged 3,000 books for the ACA library, creating a functional public lending system. (10 volunteers, countless hours over three years)
The details of these activities can be found on:
TVC website can be accessed from this link:
https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/home
TVC YouTube Channel can be accessed from this link:
https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/tvc-channel
TVC Photo folder can be accessed from this link:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tt-0uxdKf24Wb9MTM-TV6HmC-Tr8OJQ5
Since its inception in 2019, the TVC has grown from a small group of 7 volunteers assisting in the Association of Chinese Americans (ACA) library to a thriving network of 110 dedicated youth, representing 36 middle and high schools across five counties in Southeast Michigan. Officially adopting the name "TVC" in late 2021, the council has since flourished, offering teens the opportunity to develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and make a tangible impact on the lives of others.
Between 2022 and 2025, TVC members have collectively contributed 4,571 volunteer hours and benefited over 20,000 Michiganders, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to service. Their dedication has been recognized with 34 President’s Volunteer Service Awards (PVSA), including 18 Gold, seven Silver, and nine Bronze Awards. These accolades reflect not only the time invested but also the depth of their impact within the community.
Beyond volunteering, TVC empowers its members by fostering leadership and initiative. The council actively raises funds through food sales, organized fundraising events, and grant applications, collectively raising $8,617 from 2022 to 2025. These funds have been reinvested into the community—providing donations to individuals with special needs and seniors, funding scholarships for members to attend leadership training, and supporting Asian American heritage awareness initiatives.
TVC’s impact extends beyond numbers. The council cultivates a culture of service and responsibility, encouraging young volunteers to take ownership of community projects and develop a lifelong passion for civic engagement. The TVC is currently led by 13 directors who manage 7 teams and 110 members, overseeing all council activities. Their leadership ensures the smooth execution of projects and fosters the development of future community leaders. By offering hands-on experiences, leadership opportunities, and meaningful ways to give back, TVC ensures that its members not only contribute to the community today but also become the compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
The TVC has become a pivotal part of its community, providing essential support to various groups, including under-resourced children, seniors, and individuals with special needs. Their volunteer efforts are crucial to the success of Asian heritage events, where their involvement ensures smooth execution and a positive experience for all attendees. Additionally, TVC plays a significant role in developing future leaders by empowering teens with the skills, experience, and passion to give back. Through their service, TVC is shaping the next generation of compassionate, civic-minded Michiganders. The community would undoubtedly agree, as their contributions have had a lasting and visible impact on a wide range of individuals and causes, making them a true asset to the community.
32585 Concord Drive
Hero Story
The Teen Volunteer Council (TVC) is the youth volunteer group of the Association of Chinese Americans (ACA), which is a 501(c)(3) non-profit organization established in 1972. The TVC was founded in 2019. It currently has 110 dedicated youth members, representing 36 middle and high schools across five counties in Southeast Michigan.The mission of the TVC is to empowering youth through community service by focusing on supporting disadvantaged
communities, promoting Asian American heritage, leadership development, and community engagement & collaboration. They aim to inspire positive change, foster inclusivity, and develop young leaders who are passionate about creating a more connected and compassionate world. The TVC is an opportunity for students to develop valuable leadership skills while contributing to the Asian American Community.
The TVC has been a driving force in youth community service, engaging in four key areas: (I) Supporting Disadvantaged Communities, (II) Promoting Asian American Heritage, (III) Leadership Development, and (IV) Community Engagement & Collaboration. From 2022 to 2025, 110 TVC members contributed 4,571 volunteer hours, directly benefiting over 20,000 people across five Southeast Michigan counties. They raised $8,617 and donated/spent $5,427 on service initiatives.
I. Supporting Disadvantaged Communities
TVC has made a tangible impact on vulnerable populations through tutoring, donations, and direct service efforts:
1. Tutoring for Under-Resourced Children (2023-2025): TVC has provided 1,574 hours of free tutoring in English and math to children from low-income immigrant families, fostering long-term mentorship and academic improvement. (42 volunteers)
2. Assisting Special Needs Individuals (2023-2025): Partnering with FAR Therapeutic Arts & Recreation, TVC has donated $1,535 in art therapy supplies and supported FAR clients through creative projects and holiday care packages. (60 volunteers, 168 hours)
3. Senior Community Garden Maintenance (2023-2025): TVC has maintained three community gardens, ensuring fresh produce for local seniors. (39 volunteers, 837 hours)
4. Supporting Senior Facilities (2023-2024): TVC donated $1,000 to ACA’s GiveInMay campaigns, contributing to the purchase of a 15-passenger van for senior transportation and community center renovations.
5. Providing Winter Gear & Food for Low-Income Children (2022): TVC made and donated 20 blankets to Detroit Public Schools students and participated in ACA’s “Fight Hunger, Share the Warmth” initiative. (18 volunteers, 40 hours)
6. Food Bank Assistance (2023): TVC members packed over 1,860 pounds of food at Gleaners Community Food Bank, serving 1,488 meals to underserved Michigan communities. (4 volunteers, 10 hours)
II. Promoting Asian American Heritage
TVC actively promotes cultural awareness through performances, workshops, and digital storytelling:
1. Cultural Events (2019-2025): Since its founding, TVC has participated in four Lunar New Year Fairs, two Asian Festivals, two Cultural Togetherness Fairs, and various school and library events, sharing Asian traditions with over 15,000 attendees. (104 volunteers, 1,537 hours, $6,427 funds raised)
2. AAPI Heritage Blog (2024): TVC launched an Asian American heritage awareness blog during AAPI Heritage Month. (1 volunteer, 40 hours) Blog can be viewed in this link: https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/blogs
3. ACA Virtual Reading Program (2021): TVC members engaged participants in weekly discussions on books related to Asian American experiences, adoption, and culture. (4 volunteers, about 40 hours)
III. Leadership Development
TVC empowers Asian American youth through leadership training and civic engagement:
1. Leadership Workshop – Speak Up! (2024): TVC launched a confidence-building and public speaking workshop, offering scholarships and securing a $300 grant for future programs. (10 participants, 140 hours)
2. Student Leadership for Asian American Youth (SLAAY) (2025): TVC members engage in discussions on immigration policies, hate crimes, and the model minority myth to empower future Asian American leaders. (6 participants, 9 hours)
3. National Conferences (2024-2025): TVC directors attended national conferences like the NAFFAA Conference, OCA National Convention, and JACL/OCA Leadership Summit for valuable networking and professional growth opportunities. (9 participants, 75 hours)
IV. Community Engagement & Collaboration
TVC fosters community spirit through sports, fundraising, and local projects:
1. One-Day Tennis Clinic (2024): TVC hosted a tennis clinic for K-8 students, led by high school athletes. (8 volunteers, 63 hours, 35 participants)
2. 5K Culture Course (2022): A successful $1,890 fundraising event with 100 participants from Michigan, New York, and California, strengthening Asian American community ties. (7 volunteers, 128 hours)
3. ACA Library Project (2019-2021): TVC cataloged 3,000 books for the ACA library, creating a functional public lending system. (10 volunteers, countless hours over three years)
The details of these activities can be found on:
TVC website can be accessed from this link:
https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/home
TVC YouTube Channel can be accessed from this link:
https://sites.google.com/view/aca-tvc/tvc-channel
TVC Photo folder can be accessed from this link:
https://drive.google.com/drive/folders/1tt-0uxdKf24Wb9MTM-TV6HmC-Tr8OJQ5
Since its inception in 2019, the TVC has grown from a small group of 7 volunteers assisting in the Association of Chinese Americans (ACA) library to a thriving network of 110 dedicated youth, representing 36 middle and high schools across five counties in Southeast Michigan. Officially adopting the name "TVC" in late 2021, the council has since flourished, offering teens the opportunity to develop leadership skills, serve their communities, and make a tangible impact on the lives of others.
Between 2022 and 2025, TVC members have collectively contributed 4,571 volunteer hours and benefited over 20,000 Michiganders, demonstrating an unwavering commitment to service. Their dedication has been recognized with 34 President’s Volunteer Service Awards (PVSA), including 18 Gold, seven Silver, and nine Bronze Awards. These accolades reflect not only the time invested but also the depth of their impact within the community.
Beyond volunteering, TVC empowers its members by fostering leadership and initiative. The council actively raises funds through food sales, organized fundraising events, and grant applications, collectively raising $8,617 from 2022 to 2025. These funds have been reinvested into the community—providing donations to individuals with special needs and seniors, funding scholarships for members to attend leadership training, and supporting Asian American heritage awareness initiatives.
TVC’s impact extends beyond numbers. The council cultivates a culture of service and responsibility, encouraging young volunteers to take ownership of community projects and develop a lifelong passion for civic engagement. The TVC is currently led by 13 directors who manage 7 teams and 110 members, overseeing all council activities. Their leadership ensures the smooth execution of projects and fosters the development of future community leaders. By offering hands-on experiences, leadership opportunities, and meaningful ways to give back, TVC ensures that its members not only contribute to the community today but also become the compassionate leaders of tomorrow.
The TVC has become a pivotal part of its community, providing essential support to various groups, including under-resourced children, seniors, and individuals with special needs. Their volunteer efforts are crucial to the success of Asian heritage events, where their involvement ensures smooth execution and a positive experience for all attendees. Additionally, TVC plays a significant role in developing future leaders by empowering teens with the skills, experience, and passion to give back. Through their service, TVC is shaping the next generation of compassionate, civic-minded Michiganders. The community would undoubtedly agree, as their contributions have had a lasting and visible impact on a wide range of individuals and causes, making them a true asset to the community.