Lantern Festival Gala Strengthens Asian and Immigrant Families
May 6, 2026
Photos by L. B. Read Photography
On Wednesday, May 6, 2026, 230 guests came together to raise critical funds for Asian and immigrant families. BCNC participants Abdoul and brothers Brian and Austin shared their inspiring stories of how BCNC helped them achieve success in the workforce, education, and life. Thanks to our generous sponsors and donors, we raised $315,000 to ensure Asian and new immigrant families have the resources and supports needed to thrive.
At the reception, guests enjoyed appetizers from Kowloon Restaurant and viewed the latest exhibits at Pao Arts Center. After a welcome by Board Chair Terri Mock, Leona Cheung (pianist) and Hana Yiu (vocalist) shared a special performance that sought to illuminate the intersection of traditions through art songs.
BCNC CEO, Ben Hires shared about the importance of strengthening immigrant families in light of recent policy changes and challenges to the community. We were honored to hear remarks from Congresswoman Ayanna Pressley; Representative Aaron Michlewitz; Senator Nick Collins; Senator John Keenan; Boston City Councilor Ed Flynn; and City of Boston Chinatown Liaison Katrina Lin. After, guests were escorted to China Pearl Restaurant for a 10-course Chinese banquet.
““BCNC changed our lives because we learned how to become leaders. BCNC gave us a sense of community.”
– Brian, BCNC Youth Program Graduate
Guests heard inspiring stories of BCNC participants in a video by OLP Creative. Like many immigrants, Abdoul found it difficult to adjust to his new life in the US. At BCNC’s Adult Education classes, he learned English language skills for everyday life, gained job skills, built a resume, and increased his confidence.
When brothers Brian and Austin were students at North Quincy High School, they were looking for mentorship. Through the BCNC Youth Program, Brian and Austin received guidance from staff who understood the unique challenges facing Asian American youth. Today, as college students, they credit BCNC with helping them become leaders and find a sense of belonging.
Nüwa Athletic Club showcased a vibrant lion dance performance where guests “fed” the lions with red envelopes to directly contribute to the opening of BCNC’s licensed mental health clinic.
Thank You to Our Sponsors
Gold Sponsors
Silver Sponsors
Joe and Selina Chow, Jenny Hong, Bill and Theresa Mock, The Simshauser Family
Bronze Sponsors
Paul and Kieu Bi, Miranda Yanmin & Amy Yanqing Meuse, Mary M. Tse
Crystal Sponsors
Paul Chan, Chayenne & Chenelle Chin, Ada Chu and Grant Geller, Betty K. Szeto, Madeline and Howard Wan, Waichi Wong, Perry Wu and Grace Kao
Thank you to those who helped to make this Gala possible:
BCNC Staff and Volunteers
Boston Light & Sound
Cafe 180
Catering To You
China Pearl Restaurant
Conventures
Emily Wing, graphic designer
Hana Yiu, performing artist
Kowloon Restaurant
L.B. Read Photography
Leona Cheung, performing artist
Nüwa Athletic Club
OLP Creative
Shaina Lu, artist
