The month of May means sunshine, spring allergies, and summer around the corner. For Project by Project, however, it means two important events: Asian / Pacific American Heritage (AAPI) Month and Give in May! 

AAPI Month is an important time to celebrate the contributions of Asian Americans, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders to the United States. It is also an important reminder for PbP and other AAPI nonprofits to remember our goals to address the needs of the community. PbP New York’s goal is to uplift the New York AAPI community through outreach events, donations to local non-profits, and our community fund.

How can you help?

To help support us in our cause, PbP is asking for your donation to our Give in May campaign here. Give in May is a nationwide fundraising campaign held in honor of AAPI month. It supports the work of AAPI nonprofits and helps them respond to the AAPI community’s needs in an impactful way. Funds raised will support PbP as we engage with food insecurity in the AAPI community.

What is the significance of May for the AAPI community?

AAPI Heritage Month is in May due to two pivotal historical events, which took place during the month: the arrival of the first Japanese immigrants to the United States on May 7, 1847, and the completion of the transcontinental railroad on May 10, 1869, which mainly Chinese immigrant workers contributed to. President Jimmy Carter signed a resolution in 1978, declaring May 4-10 as Asian Pacific American Heritage Week, and in 1992, Congress passed a law extending it to the whole month.

What is this year’s AAPI Month theme?

The White House Initiative on Asian Amerians, Native Hawaiians, and Pacific Islanders partners with the Smithsonian Asian Pacific American Center every year to choose a national theme. This year’s theme is “Bridging Histories, Shaping Our Future.” The 2024 theme invites Americans to learn and foster discussions around the legacies, triumphs, and challenges that have shaped our AAPI communities. It is also an opportunity for reflection on the rich heritage of how our communities have shaped America and how past generations came to America, as immigrants and refugees, searching for better opportunities.

Why is PbP participating in Give in May?

Despite making up 7% of the US population, AAPI organizations have received less than 0.2% of foundation funding for the past 30 years and less than 1% of corporate giving, according to The Asian American Foundation. This is an opportunity to amplify the AAPI community and contribute to PbP’s growth and impact. 

What will your donation help with?

Project by Project is focused in 2024 on addressing the impact of food insecurity on our communities and exploring ways to increase access to healthy, culturally relevant foods. We are a 100% volunteer-run nonprofit, and your support of Project by Project in Give in May and throughout the year, such as attending Plate by Plate, will directly support our community initiatives and beneficiary partners.