Welcoming the Year of the Snake & 50 Years of Impact
PACE’s Lunar New Year Luncheon & Celebration was a powerful gathering of local leaders, partners, and community members, coming together to celebrate the Year of the Snake and PACE’s 50 years of community empowerment.
Held at the Japanese American Cultural & Community Center (JACCC), the event highlighted the resilience and strength of our Los Angeles community, especially in the face of recent challenges.
Inspiring Remarks from Community Leaders
The program opened with an exciting lion dance performance by Lion’s Pride Kung Fu. Next, PACE President & CEO Kerry Doi welcomed guests with opening remarks, followed by Billy Chun, PACE Vice President and COO, who provided key updates on PACE’s latest initiatives and impact.
We were honored to host Senator Maria Elena Durazo, Assemblymember Mike Fong, Supervisor Hilda Solis, and Councilmember John Lee, who shared their insights on the importance of strengthening our local communities through economic empowerment.
Following a delicious lunch service by Hungry Catering Co., Julie Clowes, District Director at the U.S. Small Business Administration (SBA) spoke on the 20th anniversary of PACE’s Women’s Business Center, recognizing two decades of supporting women entrepreneurs and small businesses.
Honoring Champions of Community Empowerment
A highlight of the event was the awards presentation, recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations making a lasting impact:
- Champion of Change Award – U.S. Bank | Year of the Snake Sponsor
- Community Empowerment Award – Edmund Soohoo (honored posthumously, accepted by his wife, Susan Soohoo) | Former PACE Workforce Development Specialist and a beloved friend, colleague, and community activist
- Community Empowerment Award – Alejandra Machado | PACE Education Parent Committee Chairperson and LACOE Policy Council Vice-Chairperson
- Community Empowerment Award – Make Noise Today | AAPI Youth Empowerment Organization
Thank you to everyone who joined us in celebrating PACE’s 50-year legacy and the Year of the Snake, symbolizing transformation, adaptability, and resilience—values that continue to guide our work.
Here’s to another 50 years of impact and empowerment!
Thank You to Our Sponsors!
