Loretta Huahn

”This is the kind of process which gives me great satisfaction and challenges me- it’s not just about dishing money out. It’s a process the donor is deeply involved in, with an aspiration to make an impact. In order to achieve impact, you need to find a match with an organization that’s versatile, dynamic and sensitive to the donor’s passion and goals. The Fund demonstrates the qualities and leadership that I look for.”

Loretta Huahn has dedicated her life to providing pioneering mental health and social services to the Asian community in the East Bay. Though she is active in the Bay Area’s Asian community and has been philanthropic for many years, Loretta sought out further expertise to make informed decisions about her giving. The Asian Pacific Fund recently established a donor advised fund for her, providing guidance and introductions to organizations that fulfill her philanthropic goals.

In 2013, she directed her gift to Asian Women’s Shelter (AWS), a Fund affiliate that we felt would be a good match to her interests. After a personal visit to the shelter where Loretta met with staff to learn about their urgent needs, she knew it was the right fit.

Elizabeth Kirton, executive director of AWS, says, “Like most non-profits, funding cuts from government sources, in addition to changing foundation priorities, have threatened Asian Women’s Shelter’s ability to maintain quality services to survivors of domestic violence, human trafficking, and other forms of violence. We were once again reminded of the importance of being an Asian Pacific Fund affiliate agency when they brought AWS to the attention of Ms. Huahn. Ms. Huahn’s generous gift to AWS will not only fill an unexpected funding gap this year, but will also have a lasting effect on our programming.”