About Filipino-American Association of West Virginia

The Filipino-American Association of West Virginia (FAAWV) is a domestic non-profit organization officially established on March 15, 2024, and based in Charleston, West Virginia. It is registered as a voluntary association with the West Virginia Secretary of State.

Mission
The mission of the Filipino-American Association of West Virginia is to promote unity, cultural preservation, and community engagement among Filipino-Americans in West Virginia. We strive to foster a sense of belonging, provide support to our members, and promote cross-cultural understanding and appreciation within the wider West Virginia community.

Vision

Our vision is to be a vibrant and influential organization that embodies the strength and uniqueness of the Filipino-American community in West Virginia. We aim to empower our members to fully embrace their cultural identity, celebrate their achievements, and actively contribute to the enrichment of both the Filipino-American community and the broader West Virginia community.

Goals of the Filipino-American Association of West Virginia:

1. Cultural Preservation and Appreciation: Preserve and promote Filipino culture, traditions, language, and heritage among our members through various educational programs, events, and activities.

2. Community Engagement: Actively engage with the wider West Virginia community to foster positive relationships and promote understanding between Filipinos and other cultural groups.

3. Support and Empowerment: Provide a supportive network for Filipino-Americans in West Virginia, assisting them in navigating common challenges, promoting personal and professional growth, and encouraging a strong sense of belonging and community.

4. Advocacy and Outreach: Serve as a voice and advocate for the needs, concerns, and aspirations of the Filipino-American community in West Virginia, both within the community itself and to external stakeholders.

5. Collaboration and Partnerships: Forge collaborations and partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and educational institutions to create opportunities for mutual support, cultural exchange, and community enrichment.

6. Philanthropic Initiatives: Implement initiatives that contribute to the well-being and development of both the Filipino-American community in West Virginia and the wider West Virginia community through charity, scholarship programs, and volunteer efforts.

 

Key Details:

  • Purpose: To promote Filipino culture, heritage, and community engagement across West Virginia.
  • Location: 1506 Kanawha Blvd West, Charleston, WV 25387

Leadership:

Filipino American Association of  West Virginia City Board of Commissioners 

  • Rojen Morris – Founder & Administrator
  • Freddy Frye – President
  • Ian Flores – Chairman
  • John Soreta – Vice Chairman
  • Lea Famularcano – Director of Constituents
  • Edith Hernandez – Commission Treasurer
  • Lagrimas Sadorra – Commission Auditor
  • Amando Hernandez : Commission Counselor
  • Remy Morrison : Commission Counselor
  • Zenaida Prichard : Chief Information Officer
  • Crystal Saphire : Youth information Officer
  • Gary Morris : Event Technical Support

 

Filipino American Association of  West Virginia City Commissioners 

  • Freda Harmon : Chief Operating Officer in Charleston
  • Agnes Barit : Chief Operating Officer in  Beckley
  • April Harshbarger & Christian Punsalan : Chief Operating Officers  in Huntington
  • Elenita  Baltazar  &  Rena Castro :Chief Operating Officers  in Parkersburg
  • Perla Carreon : Chief Operating Officer in Morgantown
  • Maria Chafins : Chief Operating Officer in  Clarksburg
  • Lorna Dioquino : Chief Operating Officer in  Vienna
  • Jocelyn Morrison : Chief Operating Officer in  Melton
  • Bejay Bryant : Chief Operating Officer  in clendenin
  • Tessi Sta Anna : Chief Operating Officer  in Teays Valley
  • Jenny Pauley : Chief Operating Officer  in Weirton
  • Nilaine Nagy : Chief Operating Officer  in South Charleston
  • Elvie Ancheta : Chief Operating Officer  in  Kentucky

The association played a central role in organizing the first Filipino Heritage Festival in Charleston in 2024, helping unite Filipino-American communities from various cities across the state.

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