About Us
Who we are:
The Utah County Filipino American Association (UCFAA) was founded in 2007 as a non-profit organization dedicated to enriching and uplifting the lives of Filipinos in Utah and the Philippines. The organization aims to foster community unity, support, and empowerment through various programs, community outreach, and cultural events. The UCFAA strives to preserve Filipino heritage while providing essential resources and support for education, humanitarian aid, and social development. It acts as a bridge between the Filipino community in Utah and their counterparts in the Philippines, fostering a strong sense of belonging and cultural pride.
Under the leadership of President Josephine Sia Tjeerdsma and the dedicated Board of Directors, the UCFAA ensures that 95% to 100% of all resources—whether financial or service-based—are directly allocated to vital programs, maximizing impact and accountability. The Board remains committed to transparency and integrity, carefully overseeing the allocation of funds and services to ensure that every donation is used to support initiatives that genuinely make a difference. This transparency provides reassurance and confidence to our donors and supporters, knowing that their contributions are making a real impact.
Our Mission & Values
Mission:
To lead and create impactful and meaningful initiatives that inspire growth and engagement through:
- Innovative learning experiences, language development programs, and deep cultural immersion.
- Humanitarian Aid
- Sustainable humanitarian efforts and environmental stewardship programs.
- Vibrant cultural events, including celebrations, festivals, and community sports.
- Empowering youth development programs and inclusive mentorship to foster future leaders.
Values:
Our work is guid by the values:
- Unity: Willingness to maintain harmonious relationship with others, regardless of any differences
- Cooperation: Encourage active participation and value one's contribution's made by oneself or others to achieve the purposes of the association.
- Integrity: Uphold moral values in thoughts, words and actions at all times.
Our Concern
It takes the dedication of UCFAA members, volunteers, and donors to transform a child's future and break the cycle of poverty.
Living as immigrants in the United States is a privilege that few are fortunate to experience. While we have made new lives here, our hearts remain deeply connected to the Philippines and its people. Some of us have succeeded in life, but we know many are still struggling. This is why our organization was formed - to extend a helping hand to those in need. However, the UCFAA’s support alone cannot reach everyone. We require all the support we can gather to fulfill our mission.
We aim to support underprivileged children who lack the necessities for education, such as school supplies, clothing, shoes, and the resources needed to attend school with dignity. Additionally, we aim to reach out to remote areas of the country where clean water, electricity, and safe housing are limited or absent. Our mission is to bring hope and improve the quality of life for those in the most isolated and underserved communities. With your support, we can make a meaningful difference in the lives of those who need it most.
Our Efforts
Each year, UCFAA organizes impactful fundraising events to generate vital financial support for our projects and address specific needs, such as education, children’s healthcare, and disaster relief—especially critical in a country like the Philippines, which is highly vulnerable to natural calamities.
We actively encourage the Utah community to join us in championing causes that might otherwise go unnoticed. Your participation in these events is not just a show of support, but a significant contribution that raises essential funds and helps us expand our services, allowing us to reach more needy children and offer them hope for a brighter future.
Moreover, fundraising provides a meaningful opportunity for businesses to partner with us, aligning their values with essential causes. This collaboration fosters a strong sense of community and shared responsibility as we work together to create lasting change.
We meticulously plan these events to ensure your enjoyment and that every dollar you spend adds value and contributes significantly to our mission. Your participation is invaluable to us and significantly impacts our efforts.
Valentine's Day Gala
February is widely known as a month to celebrate love in all its forms—whether between couples, friends, or families. Each year, UCFAA hosts a grand fundraising gala, with all proceeds directly supporting our ongoing projects in the Philippines. This elegant event brings people together for a night of celebration and connection and empowers us to make a lasting impact on the communities we serve.
Zumba Events
Whether it’s Zumba, Retro, Hoedown, or Latin dance, we’re all in for raising funds while having a fantastic time. Shake off the stiffness, get your heart racing, and move to the beat in a way that works up a sweat and leaves you feeling energized, youthful, and alive.
Easter Egg Hunt
A day of joy, games, and surprise. The fun is on with the games and the egg hunt.
Our Impact
Even a little help can make great changes in the life of other people, here are some examples of the impact that this organization has made for our people in the Philippines.
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Mobile Library
Our partner in the Philippines brings the joy of reading to even the most remote areas with a mobile library.
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Providing School Supplies
Donating school supplies is more than providing pencils, paper, and notebooks.
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Book Donation
Namnama Elementary School in Cabatuan Isabela, Philippines, is just one of the many public schools
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Supporting Local Food Bank
Each year, UCFAA makes community outreach a cornerstone of its efforts. We engage with diverse communities
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Nagba Water Project
In Siaton, Negros Oriental, Philippines, over a hundred families live in an area called Sitio Nagba, Barangay Maloh.
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Supplies for School
Providing the future generations with the tool they need for success on school.
Contact Us
Send us a message with your questions and ideas to:
Email: communityucfaa@gmail.com
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