On June 14th, the Brooklyn Prosperity Association (BBA) held a volunteer appreciation and Father’s Day celebration event on Saturday, just before Father’s Day on June 15th. The event featured a variety of performances by children from the association’s parent-child camp McKinley, including band performances, choir singing, elf dances, poetry recitations, English speeches, and chess demonstrations. Children from the balloon group, painting group, origami group, and chess class showcased their talents and confidence, creating a warm and lively atmosphere.
New York State Senator Chen Xueli attended the event to present thank-you medals to volunteer leaders. City Council member Zhuang Wenyi and State Assembly member Zheng Yongjia awarded medals to student volunteers participating in BBA activities, recognizing the efforts and contributions of the younger generation and wishing everyone a happy Father’s Day.
Furthermore, BBA gave special recognition to a family of four surnamed Chen, presenting them with the Volunteer Family Award for their collective involvement in activities, showcasing a sense of community spirit. During the event, prizes and gifts were also awarded to the winners of the previous international chess competition to encourage outstanding performance.
BBA has long been committed to building bridges for the growth and connection of the Chinese community in Brooklyn, transmitting knowledge, connecting resources, and expanding horizons, in the hopes of co-creating a diverse and inclusive community future with residents.
Zheng Xiugan, the association’s chief advisor and former president of the Overseas Chinese Association, praised BBA’s young volunteer team for their outstanding work in hosting activities, educational outreach, network management, and more. For example, the Children’s Day event held in collaboration with CAA in early June was almost entirely planned and executed by the younger generation. He encouraged more young people to participate in public affairs and cultivate leadership skills.
Regarding the significance of Father’s Day, Zheng Xiugan emphasized that it is not only a celebration within families but also an opportunity to educate children about filial piety and the spirit of respecting elders and caring for the young. He pointed out that in the United States, many elderly people face loneliness and even legal issues due to family estrangement, whereas the emphasis on family responsibilities and generational connections in Chinese culture is worth continuing and promoting.