Officially founded on May 1st, 2009, Asian American and Pacific Islander Heritage Month celebrates the achievements and contributions of Asian and Pacific Americans through community initiatives and government-sponsored activities. True Care’s Asian Program, led by Vice President Andy Lin, has worked tirelessly to serve various Asian communities throughout New York with grace, care, and a deep understanding of what is needed. Learn more about this journey through Andy’s own words below:
1) How did you get started in Healthcare? My journey in healthcare began as a deeply personal one, rooted in the love and care for my own family members. I spent over three years working at a senior center, and it was there that I witnessed the profound impact that healthcare has on the lives of the elderly. It was a transformative experience that awakened in me a sense of purpose and a calling to serve. In the Asian community, I've seen how our elders have made tremendous sacrifices, often leaving behind their homelands to forge a better life for their families in the United States. As immigrants, they've worked tirelessly to provide stability and opportunity for those they love. Yet, as they enter their twilight years, they are often met with challenges that leave them vulnerable and in need of support. It was this realization that inspired me to dedicate myself to healthcare. I believe that our elders deserve to be honored, respected, and cared for with the same devotion they've shown to us. It is my mission to ensure that they receive the compassionate services they need and are treated with the dignity they've earned.
2) What do you love most about your current role? When I was hired as a recruiter at True Care in the start, I've had the privilege of serving the Asian community for over five years. My experiences have been both humbling and deeply rewarding. At the heart of it all is the knowledge that I am making a difference in the lives of those who need it most. Homecare is a beacon of hope for individuals who require assistance with their daily living. It is a program that brings comfort, independence, and a sense of belonging to those who may otherwise feel isolated. In my role, I have the honor of connecting people with the services they need and ensuring that they are matched with caregivers who will provide them with the utmost care and respect. The joy I find in my work is immeasurable. It is a joy that comes from witnessing the positive impact of our services on the lives of our clients and their families. It is a joy that is fueled by the knowledge that, through my efforts, I am contributing to a brighter and more compassionate world.
3) How have you nurtured your department to better serve the needs of the community? I am proud to say that our Asian team at True Care has flourished as a pillar of support within the community. Our growth has been fueled by our unwavering commitment to outreach, education, and engagement. We have been proactive in attending events and health workshops, raising awareness about the importance of healthcare and the services we offer. Our approach to community engagement goes beyond traditional marketing. It is about building genuine relationships and being present when we are needed most. We value volunteerism and are always ready to lend a helping hand. Whether it's guiding an elderly person through the process of applying for Medicaid or connecting them with vital social services, we are the first to reach out and offer our assistance. Every interaction is an opportunity to make a positive impact, and we take that responsibility to heart. Our dedication to the community is unwavering, and we will continue to serve as a beacon of hope, compassion, and empowerment for all those who seek our support.
The stories shared throughout AAPI Heritage Month reveal the important roles Asian Americans and Pacific Islanders have played and continue to play within American society. True Care’s Asian program staff speak Mandarin and Cantonese and are trained to assist with and care for Asian Americans with conditions that have a higher prevalence in their community.
