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.
