Recognizing the unspoken heroes of the nonprofit world

When you’re in the corporate world, they’re simple to ignore: immigration issues, political apathy, lack of media representation, race relations, dispute resolutions, youth leadership, Census information, North Korea, domestic violence, adoption. And on and on.

Before I came to KAC, I had no idea the Korean American nonprofit world had so many amazing people who gave their lives to help other people while working for low wages (and in some cases no wages). The nonprofit world is filled with real, genuine, humble souls who care about people more than money. I’ve realized sometimes the answers to the programs aren’t perfectly scripted solutions, they’re people who sacrifice their own lives to help other people. They are the true heroes.

I am leaving KAC to pursue other interests, but I’d like to thank these people at KAC-LA.

• Charles Kim, for building KAC from scratch sometime in the 1800s.

• Duane Ko, computer guy, the most down-to-earth Harvard graduate I’ve ever met. Your humility, intelligence and curly hair have inspired me. It’s been an honor. Michelle Wie!

• Eddie Kim, 4.29/Dispute Resolutions, one who isn’t afraid to go against the trend. Your spoken words are words spoken to move the masses. Let’s represent! Projekt New Speak!

• Steve ‘Suntae’ Lee, Census Information Center, you are the definition of a Koreatown brother, born and raised. You’re going to change K-town inside out. Allow me to re-introduce myself!

• Alice and Janie! If everyone had your positive attitude, there would be world peace. Cake!

• Mr. Song, nothing but genuine respect every morning when I bent myself 90 degrees.

• Yoon, Danny, Amy, working hard in the office helping people become citizens and protecting them from getting scammed, Much love!

• Grace Yoo, it’s only been a few months, but you’ve reminded me that being on time is actually late and being 15 minutes early is being on time.

• Debbie, Peter, Diane, and everyone who worked in the office previously, you all look better now!

• KAC summer interns and conference attendees of 2004 and 2005 — I love you all!!

• KAC board members and staff across the nation.

I must salute KAC and leave you with a song full of my Korean American heroes:

“Korean American Day”

January 13 is Korean American Day

And we will celebrate with free bulgogi

Through the struggles

Thousands of years we were in pain but our parents’ sacrifices weren’t in vain

Joe Hahn from Linkin Park

People Magazine, Jeannie Park

K-Sly on 100.3

Sukhee Kang, the victory

Women’s Labor Shinae Chun

Chae Yun Jae, the guys just love

James and Tammy — KoreAm soul

Charles and Young — L.A. to Seoul

Dosan Ahn Chang Ho

Sumi Jo, the soprano