Empowerment starts with youth
The MAAY Foundation is the first statewide Asian American and Pacific Islander nonprofit to focus on civic engagement. We build the tools and systems for Asian Americans to thrive in Missouri — starting with young people.
Our Mission
The Missouri Asian American Youth Foundation’s mission is to train the next generation of Asian American leaders through civic engagement, education and solidarity.
A Word from the President
A longitudinal study from the University of Michigan demonstrated that amongst all ethnic groups of grade schoolers, Asian American boys and girls have the worst self-confidence. And it follows them in the next 30 years, continuing to impact their lives, health, and careers.
AANHPI youth in Missouri already have challenges because they might be the only AANHPI kid in their class or school. MAAY Foundation was created to provide young people the tools and training to be leaders in the classroom, boardroom, and in the halls of power. We empower youth and work intergenerationally with parents and grandparents — the way our families live — to educate our community on issues of representation and civic engagement.
Young people are frequently the cultural bridges and translators for their elders, and we help them be better civic leaders for all of our families.
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Caroline Fan, Founder & President
Model & Theory of Change
YOUTH CENTERED
AAPI youth are the translators for elders and have the power to mobilize.
EARLY EMPOWERMENT
Developing self-confidence and leadership skills early creates more resilience.
CREATING THE ROLE MODELS OF TOMORROW
Today’s youth are the leaders of tomorrow. Building that pipeline starts now.