ACRS eNews – Feb 2026

 In Newsletter

At ACRS, belonging isn’t just a feeling – it’s being seen, represented, and supported in the systems that shape everyday life. This month, we’re putting that belonging into action by lifting up our collective voice through advocacy, cultural identity, and community-powered momentum.

A&NH/PI Legislative Day: Civic belonging in action
A few weeks ago, on February 5, ACRS joined other members of APIC for its annual A&NH/PI Legislative Day in Olympia. Nearly 1,000 community members from across Washington came together to meet with state legislators and speak up for the issues that matter most to our communities.
The day began with a rally on the Capitol steps, where participants heard from Washington’s A&NH/PI legislators, the Speaker of the House, the Secretary of State, youth activists, and other community voices. From there, advocates headed to 55+ meetings with legislators to lift up APIC’s priorities, including preserving funding for immigrant health safety nets, protections for immigrant workers, and progressive revenue.

The day before Legislative Day, ACRS and APIC community leaders met with Governor Bob Ferguson to elevate these same priorities and underscore the importance of investing in programs, services, and protections for immigrants and refugees across the state. It was a clear reminder: representation matters, and when we show up together, we create change. 

Seniors ring in Lunar New Year at Club Bamboo 

Belonging starts close to home, in spaces where people can bring their full selves, culture, and language. This month, about 200 members of our Club Bamboo senior center celebrated Lunar New Year with joy, connection, and pride in the traditions that shape who we are. With shared food, lots of laughter, and heartfelt conversations across languages and generations, it was a beautiful reminder that culture isn’t just something we honor – it’s something we live together.

Lunar New Year Message by CEO Kendee Yamaguchi

Lunar New Year is a season of renewal, and this year’s Horse symbolizes momentum and resilience. In her Lunar New Year message, ACRS CEO Kendee Yamaguchi reflects on what it means to move forward together, grounded in community and collective strength.  👉 Read Kendee’s full Lunar New Year message.

Walk for Rice: Fundraising kicks off to May 16  

Walk for Rice is now 85 days away. We’re launching the campaign early because demand at the ACRS Food Bank is rising fast. More families relied on ACRS last year than the year before. The earlier you start, the more you can help families avoid a food crisis.

Getting started just takes a few minutes:

  • Start a team and your own fundraising page (solo or with a team)
  • Donate to support the ACRS Food Bank
  • Share the campaign with friends, family and colleagues

👉 Join or register for Walk for Rice today

Seahawks honor ACRS Food Bank coordinator with Super Bowl surprise

Through our Seahawks partnership, ACRS Food Bank Coordinator Karen Jackel was recognized for 33 years of service, honored on the field at Lumen Field, and surprised with tickets to the Super Bowl. It was a special moment of community appreciation for someone who has dedicated her life to serving others. 👉 Watch Karen’s Super Seahawks Journey

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