Chinese Mutual Aid Association - Chicago Office

🎥 We're honored to be featured by Fox 32 Chicago!

For more than 20 years, CMAA's Uptown After-School Program has provided a safe, supportive space for immigrant and refugee youth and their families as they build new lives in Chicago. From academic support and enrichment activities to food access and family resources, we're committed to helping young people thrive.

A special thank you to FOX 32 Chicago and our partners at the Greater Chicago Food Depository for highlighting this important work.

Watch the story and learn more about how CMAA continues to support new arrivals in our community. ❤️

Uptown after-school program supports new arrivals and their families Twenty years strong, an after-school program in Uptown has been looking out for kids whose families just arrived here. The Chinese Mutual Aid Association got started to help folks start fresh in Chicago and they're still at it. Now they've teamed up with the Greater Chicago Food Depository to keep t...

🎉 May has been an incredible month for CMAA as we celebrate both and CMAA’s 45th Anniversary!

We are deeply honored to be recognized through multiple civic recognitions and community events across Chicago and Illinois, highlighting 45 years of serving and empowering immigrant, refugee, and multicultural communities. ❤️

✨ Highlights include:
• Recognition by the Chicago City Council led by Ald. Andre Vasquez, alongside Ald. Angela Clay, Ald. Leni Manaa-Hoppenworth, and Ald. Nicole Lee
• Honoring the legacy of Mabel Menard and her impact on Chicago’s Asian American community
• Recognition of CMAA co-founder Yman Vien by the Cook County Treasurer’s Office
• Recognition of Executive Director Rhea Yap by Illinois Comptroller Susana Mendoza for leadership in community service

These recognitions reflect the collective work of our staff, supporters, partners, volunteers, and community members over the past 45 years. Thank you for being part of CMAA’s journey as we continue building stronger, more inclusive communities together.

CMAA staff and seniors proudly joined Springfield Advocacy Day on May 6, alongside the PAVE Coalition and community partners from across Illinois, to celebrate AAPI Heritage Month and advocate for our communities. 🙌

Last week, CMAA’s Golden Age Club seniors enjoyed a wonderful outing at the Oak Park Conservatory! 🌿✨

We spent quality time together playing games, learning more about CMAA programs and services, connecting with our amazing seniors, and creating beautiful origami crafts. It was a joyful day filled with laughter, creativity, and community.

A special thank you to the volunteers from United Airlines for supporting this outing and spending meaningful time with our seniors. Your energy helped make the day extra special! 💛

Interested in volunteering with CMAA and making a difference in our community? Contact us at [email protected].

✨ What an unforgettable night! ✨

Thank you to everyone who joined us at our Gala last Thursday and helped make the evening so special. From inspiring moments to the incredible energy in the room, we are truly grateful for your support and generosity.

Because of you, we can continue making a meaningful impact in our community. 💛

A special thank you to our sponsors, volunteers, and guests who made this event possible.

📸 The photos are ready:https://www.chinesemutualaid.org/2026-annual-gala to relive the memories!

We are proud to be part of the Capacity Building for Capacity Builders Conference at Loyola University Chicago, with Executive Director Rhea Yap joining an incredible lineup of leaders working to strengthen organizations and advance community impact.

Event details:
Date: May 13, 2026
Time: 8am - 4:30pm
Location: Schreiber Center, 16 E. Pearson Street, Chicago