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For Immediate Release New partnership strengthens Hmong advocacy and leadership ST. PAUL, Minnesota, June 4, 2010- Hmong American Partnership and Hmong National Development, Inc. announced today that the agencies formalized an agreement to strengthen their advocacy and leadership programs in the Hmong community. The Boards of Directors from both organizations approved a five-year agreement for HND to operate as a subsidiary program of HAP. These two organizations give voice to community concerns here in Minnesota and across the country. This new partnership will mean increased national visibility for HAP and a stronger community base and infrastructure for HND. “HAP is very pleased with this partnership,” says Bao Vang, President and CEO of HAP, “This is a great alignment for the benefit of all Hmong Americans.” HND will continue its work, including hosting the annual Hmong National Conference and co-branding the event with HAP. HAP is already the largest Hmong social service agency in the country, and its advocacy work has been a strategic priority. This partnership boosts HAP’s national growth. Together they will provide a strong base for ongoing services to the Hmong community, leveraging HAP’s strong management skills and community focus with HND’s national forum and creative programs. While this is a major strategic move for these agencies, most community members won’t notice an immediate difference in programming because both HAP and HND will continue their programs and services without interruption. “This is an opportunity to take civic engagement to the next level in the Hmong community. With so many issues and fewer dollars, the climate is ripe for HAP and HND to work together rather than compete,” says Chris Lo, Chair of the HND Board of Directors. About Hmong American Partnership Hmong American Partnership is a social service and community development organization whose mission is: to empower the community to embrace the strengths of our cultures while achieving our potential. HAP was established in 1990 to address the needs of Minnesota’s growing Hmong population. Since its inception, HAP has expanded to serve community members from a wide variety of cultural and ethnic groups. HAP provides employment services, education and training, housing and economic development services, elderly services, and youth and family services to more than 3,000 community members annually. ### For more information about Hmong American Partnership, call Andrea Barcenas at 651-495-1505 or visit www.hmong.org
Media Contact: Ms. Bao Vang, President and CEO, HAP 651-495-1507 ----------------------------------------------------------------- TO DOWNLOAD PDF CLICK HERE |
HND is committed to building the capacity of the next generation of leaders. Through internship opportunities, HND provides students with hands-on experience working in a national non-profit organization. Additionally, interns gain experience working with other local and national organizations and leaders on issues that impact the Hmong. HND offers internships in our DC office throughout the year. Please call us for more information about our internship opportunities at 202.797.9105.