Centering Culture and Wellness: ACRS and HAVI Host Nationwide Mental Health Dialogue

In recognition of Asian and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander Heritage Month and Mental Health Awareness Month, ACRS partnered with Walk for Rice presenting sponsor HAVI to host a thought-provoking Lunch & Learn on mental wellness, cultural identity, and workplace stress.

The event featured ACRS Behavioral Health clinicians Steve Chon and Vivienne Bae in a Q&A moderated by HAVI’s Ambika Rajyagor. More than 110 HAVI employees participated nationwide — including 20 in person and nearly 90 tuning in virtually from Seattle, Chicago, and beyond — marking the company’s highest attendance to date.

This first-time collaboration introduced tools such as Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs through a cultural lens, along with the “stress bucket” model — frameworks that helped ground the conversation in how culture and identity shape mental health and stress management.

Participants shared that the session resonated deeply and offered a meaningful space for reflection.

ACRS is proud to partner with HAVI in creating opportunities for dialogue, healing, and cross-sector learning. We look forward to future collaborations and expanding the conversation to include broader themes of advocacy and empowerment in the A&NHPI community.

ACRS Behavioral Health clinicians Steve Chon and Vivienne Bae (far right) participated in a Q&A session moderated by a HAVI staff member Ambika Rajyagor (middle). (ACRS/Jenni Stephenson)