Founding of Ethnic Programs and Agencies for Asian Americans: An Exploration of Strategies & Challenges

Abstract

This article uses the multiple case study approach to explore the intent, experience, and implementation of Asian-based programs/agencies by their founders. Four major themes were identified in this study that included start of agency, services and outreach, challenges, and factors for successes. Specifically, start of agency included vision and action, needs assessment, and structure. Subthemes within services and outreach involved focus of services on a specific ethnic group, need for outreach, and support of mainstream agencies. Challenges faced by founders consisted of staffing, resistance of ethnic community, and funding. Factors that contributed to success included passion, background, and skill development.

Keywords:

• agency development
• ethnic agencies
• ethnic communities
• ethnic-specific services
• overcoming service barriers
• program development

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

The author is grateful for the support and guidance of Drs. F. Ellen Netting and Mary Katherine O'Connor.