About Us: History and Mission Statement


“Empowering Vietnamese communities and organizations in the United States, recognizing leadership and establishing strong networks for greater collaboration and support.”

Mission Statement:

    The National Alliance of Vietnamese American Service Agencies (NAVASA) is a national advocacy agency currently comprised of 34 community-based (CBOs) and faith-based organizations (FBOs). Since its incorporation in 1995 as a non-profit 501(c) (3) organization, NAVASA has promoted economic self-sufficiency and active citizenship for Vietnamese-Americans through full participation in the political system. NAVASA is committed to assisting its affiliates address the linguistic, social, economic, and civic needs facing community members in their specific localities.

The mission of NAVASA is to empower the Vietnamese community in the United States and facilitate the transition of Vietnamese refugees and immigrants from dependency to self-sufficiency. NAVASA works with national and local affiliates to support its member agencies; to strengthen national advocacy capability and, to promote the integration of the Vietnamese American community into American society. The member agencies work with refugees and immigrants (both Vietnamese and non-Vietnamese) at the local and regional level while NAVASA coordinates and develops national programs, initiatives and resources.

To accomplish its mission, NAVASA is pursuing a three-pronged approach:

 

a.

 Strengthen the program development of member-organizations by   providing technical assistance, leadership training, and resource development assistance.

b.

 Deliver services to those in need through collaborative efforts with local  affiliates throughout the United States.

c.

 Advocate on the national level on issues of importance to the Vietnamese-American population.

 

History:

    NAVASA was established in 1995 by leaders of Vietnamese community-based organizations who were committed to helping newcomers achieve their American dreams. Founding members appreciated the struggle – many had been through it themselves – and wanted to help others achieve social and economic success as well.

    Since the establishment of NAVASA, the organization has received funding support from several agencies of the U.S Government, State and local governments, private foundations such as the Open Society Institute and Community Foundation for the National Capital Region as well as from private corporations. Affiliate organizations operating throughout the United States have also gained financial and other support of the community in which they operate.

    NAVASA has evolved during the past five years. Through cooperation with its growing affiliate members, to offering efficient technical assistance, and reaching out to Vietnamese American youth, NAVASA has since taken an active role in establishing itself as a national advocacy organization for all Vietnamese American communities across the United States.