The Korean American Community Foundation’s 4th annual National Convening was held in Koreatown, Los Angeles on September 13. It was the first time that it took place outside of New York City.

EVENT SUMMARY

The Convening, the first and largest of its kind bringing together Korean American nonprofit and foundation leaders from across the country, creates an opportunity for the leading changemakers in our communities to forge new connections, discuss topics of economic insecurity, share expertise and strategies, and explore opportunities to work more collaboratively across issues and geographies.

From the challenges of serving populations that are growing increasingly diverse to planning for major leadership transitions, this year’s attendees engaged in conversations about the evolving needs of their communities, coalition building challenges and strategies, and the critical importance of investing in the growth and leadership of nonprofit organizations.

HIGHLIGHTS

People & Changing Landscape: Serving Diverse Communities

Nonprofit leaders discussed the challenges and opportunities that their organizations are thinking about and addressing as the communities they serve grow increasingly diverse. They reflected on what this changing landscape means for their organizational culture, strategic planning, board development, and staffing.

Panelists:

• Eun-Kyung Kim – Executive Director, YWCA of Queens (New York, NY)
• Ji-Hye Kim – Executive Director, KAN-WIN (Chicago, IL)
• Rick Kim – Director of Community Economic Development, KYCC (Los Angeles, LA)

Key Themes:

• The demographics of Koreatowns are shifting and growing increasingly diverse. Nonprofits are finding ways to mobilize their capacity to adequately serve non-Korean populations seeking their services and programs.

• Frontline staff are the first to change to meet the need of the changing communities. However, diversifying boards to reflect changing communities, is more challenging. 

• Inspiring younger and future generations to lead and support the work of these organizations is something they continue to grapple with.

People & Changing Landscape: Building Solidarity Across Communities

Beyond meeting the needs of shifting populations, how do we rally our community to work more collaboratively with other communities? Nonprofit leaders shared their experiences and learnings from building coalitions Success stories and challenges

Panelists:

• Young Seh Bae – Founder & Executive Director, Community Inclusion & Development Alliance (New York, NY)
• Jeehae Fischer – Executive Director, Korean American Family Service Center (New York, NY)
• Mel Lee – Executive Director, Woori Center (Greater Philadelphia)

Key Takeaways:

• Trust is the foundation of successful coalitions. Clearly articulated shared goals, alignment around these goals, and decisionmaking processes.
• Multi-ethnic and multi-racial coalitions require cultural sensitivity. Acknowledging and respecting diverse backgrounds to biases, fosters learning, and builds stronger, more inclusive relationships.
• Sustaining coalition work is hard work. Being intentional with time and ensuring equal participation across members are essential for building on momentum.

Succession Planning

Two organizations that have recently navigated major executive leadership transitions shared insights into the process, highlighting the importance of developing a strong leadership pipeline in a multigenerational workplace. They discussed strategies for ensuring continuity, fostering emerging leaders, and managing the complexities of transitions while maintaining organizational stability.

Panelists:

• Inhe Choi – Executive Director, Hana Center (Chicago, IL)
• Danae Kovac – Deputy Director, Hana Center (Chicago, IL)
• Myoungmi Kim – President & CEO, Korean Community Services (New York/New Jersey)

Key Takeaways:

• Succession planning is a long-term investment and it is helpful to start open conversations with potential successors well in advance of transitions.
• It takes a lot of time and resources. When engaging a consultant or third-party to support an executive search, it is critical for them to have a deep understanding of the community impacted and the culture of the organization.
• It’s important to keep the board and key stakeholders informed of major leadership transitions. This includes funders who will appreciate the transparency and potentially provide support.

“Open Space” Discussions

Attendees engaged in small group discussions on topics suggested by a peer. This opportunity facilitated the sharing of experiences, ideas, and best practices around: diversifying sources of funding, leveraging artificial intelligence, board development, voter engagement, and intergenerational team management.

The National Convening was a unique opportunity for attendees, especially those from regions without a vibrant Korean nonprofit community, to feel seen and heard. Participants shared a deep pride in being part of a large network of organizations dedicated to transformative work across the country. This gathering truly celebrated Korean American leaders and their vital role as a force for change in the United States, inspiring everyone to continue their important work with renewed energy and purpose. It was a heartfelt reminder of the strength and impact we can achieve together.