By David Tuckman/American Red Cross

May is Asian American Pacific Islander Month (AAPI). This important occasion celebrates the rich ancestry and traditions of Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders and the many contributions they have provided our nation. In honor of AAPI Month, the American Red Cross Los Angeles Region honors one of our longstanding leaders of nearly nine years, Vicky Phung, who shares insights on her culture and passion for her Red Cross work.

As senior engagement specialist, Phung works with different departments to ensure that each department and program has the volunteer workforce required to meet its mission. Phung also runs the region’s youth program, which fuels her passion for working with and inspiring youth. 

Engaging with youth and volunteers in LA is very important to Phung. Her efforts have brought greater awareness of the Red Cross through youth specific programs. Examples are READYTeens and Youth First Aid Station Team, where highly trained teens serve alongside Red Cross first responders. Also, the Houses Made Safer Program, where youth learn important disaster, education, and health skills, then teach those skills back to their communities.

Phung grew up in the community she now serves, and through the Red Cross, she continues to inspire those communities each day.

“I grew up Asian American in LA and in my neighborhood, we were predominantly Latino and truly multicultural,” Phung said. “As a multicultural community, we embraced a lot of different languages, delicious cultural foods and fun traditions. Everything you think about Los Angeles was summed up—fun, delicious food and great people.” 

Phung sees AAPI Month as a celebration of all Asian cultures, and a reflection of how far the community has come. She enjoys seeing how the community celebrates differences and diversity. 

Phung honors AAPI Month by participating in community events hosted by the Red Cross and other organizations. These celebrations allow her to learn about other people, different cultures and important traditions as part of the festivities.

About the American Red Cross: 

The American Red Cross shelters, feeds and provides comfort to victims of disasters; supplies about 40% of the nation's blood; teaches skills that save lives; distributes international humanitarian aid; and supports veterans, military members, and their families. The Red Cross is a nonprofit organization that depends on volunteers and the generosity of the American public to deliver its mission. For more information, please visit redcross.org/la.