Celebrating AAPI Heritage Month at The Richmond Neighborhood Center
Ling was born in Vietnam, where she helped with her father’s rubber pipe business and cared for children before moving to the U.S. She immigrated to San Francisco after getting married, where she began building a life, a family, and eventually a new community in the Richmond District.
In her early years in the U.S., Ling worked as a seamstress in a factory until her children were born. Family life became her focus, and her connection to The Richmond Neighborhood Center began when her twins joined the afterschool program at Argonne Elementary. What started as a parent engagement turned into a deep, ongoing commitment to community service.
Now, Ling volunteers at the food pantry four days a week. She plays a critical role in supporting families and seniors in the neighborhood. “I like the people here—they’re nice, funny, and we speak the same language. There’s a lot of camaraderie,” she says with a warm smile. She’s proud of how the pantry supports the entire community, especially those who need a little extra help.
Ling also introduced her son Peter to The Neighborhood Center, who now works as the program coordinator of our Home-Delivered Groceries (HDG) program. Her dedication and example continue to inspire others—both in her family and throughout the neighborhood.
When asked what she’d say to anyone considering volunteering, Ling encourages it wholeheartedly: “We always need more hands! It’s better when we have more volunteers—especially strong ones,” she laughs. “It’s hard work, but it’s good work. It helps everyone.”
We are so grateful for Ling’s time, energy, and heart. Thank you, Ling, for being such a vital part of our community.
🔗 Learn more about volunteering
