Aug 16, 2021 · 1 min read
‘We’re Here To Just Make Things Better’: How Anamatangi Polynesian Voices Meets the Needs of Its Community
The nonprofit brings East Palo Alto, California, residents together through culture and has been a force for good during the pandemic.
Mama Dee Uhila and Senita ‘Uhilamoelang, or Papa Senita, founded Anamatangi Polynesian Voices (APV) — a grassroots nonprofit serving the East Palo Alto, Belle Haven, and North Fair Oaks, California, communities — in the early 90s. APV is committed to advocating for Pacific Islanders through cultural enrichment and influencing local policies that promote equity.
East Palo Alto has been known for having a large Samoan and Tongan population, which brought Mama Dee and Papa Senita to the community. Their culture of resilience has had a tremendous influence on their work, helping others improve the community with immigration assistance, support for individuals experiencing homelessness, health services, and more.
It’s no surprise that when the COVID-19 pandemic began, APV partnered with other organizations to support the health and wellbeing of the community, including vaccine access and testing.
Watch the video above to learn more about the incredible work of this Chan Zuckerberg Initiative Community grant partner, and visit the APV website to support its vision for the future.
