In our work at CPAF, we recognize the diversity of experiences and continuously strive to engage with one another and the community through an intersectional lens. We understand that in order to stop the perpetuation of violence, we cannot view mental health, race, immigration, and economic opportunities in silos. We weave our human story through the many experiences and identities we carry. This month, CPAF continued to build connections across cultures in our vision to end all forms of violence.

Collaboration with Japanese Non-Profit, A Place for You 

In January, CPAF staff met with CEO Koki Ozora and supervisor Takuto Oshima of Anata no Ibasho, translated as "A Place for You,” a non-profit organization in Japan that utilizes AI technology to provide virtual support and resources to those seeking mental health counseling. The organization uses an online chat box on their website, where messages are filtered to determine the nature of the call. High crisis calls are responded to in less than a minute by a live person, while other messages are given a time for when they will be answered. Top received messages have to do with suicidal thoughts and domestic violence. 

In alignment with CPAF’s values and philosophy of self-determination, listening and meeting someone where they are at, and supporting agency over our lives, Anata no Ibasho doesn’t believe in fixing, rather helping someone come back to a balanced mind, where they can think clearly and decide what is best for themselves.  

With 600 volunteers globally and messages received from around the world, Anata no Ibasho wanted to learn more about the resources that exist outside of Japan to better be able to refer those who message them to local organizations. We are impressed by Anata no Ibasho’s vital work in the community and look forward to partnering together in our mission to build healthy and safe communities. 

To learn more about Anata no Ibasho, check out: 

Japanese Entrepreneur Starts Volunteer Online Message Counseling - New York Post

 Anata no Ibasho Website 

Honoring Black History Month

This month during CPAF’s all-staff meeting, the core group members of the Racial Justice Committee gave a presentation in honor of Black History Month. Staff engaged in conversation about stereotypes of Black Americans, including those they have heard in their own communities. We discussed the history of slavery and racism in America, covering events such as the Tulsa Race Massacre on Black Wall Street in 1921 and the 16th Street Baptist Church bombing in 1963. The presentation has sparked ongoing conversations among staff, including the topic of colorism in the Asian and Pacific Islander communities, utilizing group spaces within the organization for further discussion.

Shop for a Cause - Jewelry Sale for CPAF! 

Join us in shopping for a cause! Earrings, necklaces, bracelets, and rings will be available for purchase. All net proceeds from the sale will benefit CPAF. Support our programs and women entrepreneurs!  

Dates & Times: Thursday, March 2, 10:00AM – 12:00PM and Saturday, March 4, 1:00PM – 4:00PM 

Location: ENO Warehouse, 6481 Global Dr, Cypress, CA 90630 
 
Non-Branded products: $2 
Branded products: $5 - $10 
 
For more details visit our website: Shop for a Cause Jewelry Sale!  

Rooted Leadership Project Celebration

Congratulations to our Rooted Leadership Project youth leaders! From September 2022 to January 2023, eight youth created community action projects that addressed a root cause of violence they felt connected to in their community. Youth created websites on mental health, held drives for sanitary products, delivered workshops in their high schools, and more! The culmination event allowed for the opportunity for youth to meet with their mentors who supported them throughout this process. We are so proud of our Rooted Leadership Project youth! 

To learn more about the Rooted Leadership Project email prevention@cpaf.info or visit Volunteer Youth. 

As we continue to connect across cultures, we also want to hear from you, our CPAF community! This year marks CPAF’s 45th anniversary of Nurturing Change Together, and we are asking all CPAFers from 1978 to present: “What is something you have learned from CPAF that you use in your life?” Find all of the details here. We look forward to seeing your creative responses!