Asian Community Development Council

The Asian Community Development Council (ACDC) is a nonprofit organization based in Las Vegas, Nevada, established to improve the education and well-being of Asian, Pacific Islander, and other ethnic communities within the state. Founded in 2015, ACDC is classified under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code, allowing it to receive tax-deductible contributions. The organization primarily focuses on community improvement and capacity building within the neighborhoods it serves.

Mission

The mission of ACDC is to promote, foster, and advocate for the interests and needs of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders in Nevada, enhancing their quality of life through education, civic engagement, and health initiatives. ACDC aims to empower individuals and families by connecting them with resources, information, and services that strengthen their communities.

Services and Programs

ACDC offers a variety of programs and services designed to address the unique challenges faced by the communities it serves, including:

• Civic Engagement: ACDC conducts voter registration and mobilization efforts to encourage civic participation among Asian and Pacific Islander residents. The organization partners with local entities to provide educational materials and resources about the voting process.

• Citizenship Assistance: The organization offers workshops and one-on-one appointments to assist individuals in navigating the citizenship application process, providing language support when needed.

• Health Initiatives: ACDC promotes good health within the community by providing information on available health insurance options and organizing COVID-19 vaccination clinics. They also operate the HAPI (Healthy Asian Pacific Islander) medical center to facilitate healthcare access.

• Food Assistance: The organization runs a food pantry serving households within certain income limits, partnering with the Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP) to enhance food security for low-income families.

• Youth Programs: ACDC conducts college readiness boot camps to support high school students in preparing for higher education, fostering educational advancement among youth in the community.

• Emergency Support: In response to the COVID-19 pandemic and rising instances of anti-Asian hate, ACDC provides emergency food services and self-defense classes, along with advocacy efforts to support affected individuals.

Financial Overview

Funding for ACDC is derived from a mix of private donations, corporate sponsorships, and grants from various foundations. The organization reports that a significant portion of its revenue comes from contributions, which supports its various programs and operational costs. Notable corporate partners include prominent Nevada-based companies such as MGM Resorts International and Caesars Entertainment.

Leadership

The organization was founded by Vida Chan Lin, who currently serves as its president. Under her leadership, ACDC has established a solid reputation for its community-focused initiatives and advocacy work.

Conclusion

The Asian Community Development Council plays a crucial role in enhancing the lives of Asian and Pacific Islander communities in Nevada through its multifaceted approach to education, civic engagement, and health. By addressing both immediate needs and long-term development goals, ACDC contributes significantly to the social fabric of the region.