CPC Celebrates Resilience, Unity, and Community Impact at Annual Lunar New Year Gala | Chinese-American Planning Council
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CPC Celebrates Resilience, Unity, and Community Impact at Annual Lunar New Year Gala

Mar
5

***FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE***

Date: March 6th, 2026

Press Contacts: 

Alice Du, Director of Communications | (212) 792-4585 | adu@cpc-nyc.org

CPC Celebrates Resilience, Unity, and Community Impact at Annual Lunar New Year Gala

New York, NY – Last night, the Chinese-American Planning Council (CPC) hosted its annual Lunar New Year Gala at Pier 60, Chelsea Piers, bringing together more than 550 guests in celebration of 61 years of service to immigrant and low-income New Yorkers. The gala raised over $1 million, with 100% of proceeds directly supporting CPC's expansion of services and advocacy for community members, as well as supporting our human services, home care, and affordable housing workers.

 

"For more than six decades, CPC has walked alongside immigrant and low-income New Yorkers through moments of triumph and times of crisis, offering not only services but also support, dignity, and hope," said Wayne Ho, President and CEO of CPC. "As we celebrate another year of impact, I am thankful for the commitment of our staff, the trust of our community members and their families, and the generosity of our partners who share our belief that every person deserves the opportunity to reach their fullest potential."

 

The evening was emceed by Alan Muraoka, two-time Emmy Award-winning actor, director, and producer, alongside Kathleen Kim, a producer, puppeteer, and voice artist best known for playing Ji-Young on Sesame Street. The gala also celebrated three distinguished honorees for their contributions to the community. Each was recognized for their profound impact on the lives of community members served by CPC. Elected officials in attendance included Mayor Mamdani, Council Speaker Menin, Senate Minority Leader Schumer, Comptroller Levine, and Council Members Krishnan, Lee, and Riley.

 

The Corporate Social Responsibility Award was presented to Pitta & Baione LLP, in recognition of the firm's tireless dedication to advocating for justice, supporting vulnerable communities, and upholding dignity for those facing life's most difficult challenges. The firm is widely recognized for its leadership in securing hundreds of millions of dollars in 9/11 benefits for those affected by the World Trade Center attacks through the September 11th Victim Compensation Fund.

 

Pitta & Baione LLP shared, "Many of our clients, staff members, and their families rely on and benefit from CPC. We are proud to support an organization that supports our people, and particularly happy to support the Pitta & Baione LLP Community Health Services Center at CPC One, which was spearheaded by partner Christopher J. Baione. The health center provides life-saving services to some of the most marginalized members of our community."

 

The Legacy Award honored Peggy Sheng, former Chief Operating Officer of the Coalition of Asian American IPA (CAIPA), for her dedication and profound impact on advancing the health and well-being of AAPI communities across Greater New York.

“Through my work at CAIPA, I’ve had the privilege of partnering with CPC on community health efforts, education, and expanding access to care and essential resources. Working together has reinforced my belief that culturally responsive services and strong partnerships are key to advancing health equity and dignity for all. This recognition means a great deal to me because it reflects what’s possible when organizations come together in service of our communities," said Peggy Sheng.

 

The Honoree of the Year Award was presented to Chang M. Liu, President and CEO of Cathay Bank and Cathay General Bancorp, recognized for his visionary leadership and unwavering commitment to community advancement. Throughout his career, Liu has been a dedicated champion of MWBEs and small businesses, working to expand access to capital and economic opportunity. He has also been a vocal advocate in the fight against anti-Asian hate and a leader in advancing safety, solidarity, and support for AAPI communities.

 

“I am deeply honored to be recognized by the CPC at this gala. Lunar New Year is a time of renewal, reflection and community—values that guide both my personal journey and professional mission. To stand among leaders and changemakers who uplift and empower our communities is truly humbling,” said Chang M. Liu.

 

For more information about CPC and its programs, visit www.cpc-nyc.org.

 

ABOUT CPC

Founded in 1965, CPC is a social services organization that creates social change. Building on our historic legacy and ongoing dedication to the Chinese American community, CPC advances the social and economic progress of immigrant and low-income communities of New York through services, resources, and advocacy.

 

關於華策會

華策會成立於1965年，是一個致力於推動社會變革的社會服務機構。秉承深厚的歷史傳承與對華裔美國社區的持續承諾，華策會透過多元服務、資源援助與公共倡議，促進紐約移民及低收入社區的社會與經濟發展。

 

ACERCA DE CPC

Fundada en 1965, CPC es una organización de servicios sociales que promueve el cambio social. Basándose en su legado histórico y su compromiso continuo con la comunidad chino-estadounidense, CPC impulsa el progreso social y económico de las comunidades inmigrantes y de bajos ingresos de Nueva York a través de servicios, recursos y acciones de incidencia.

 

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