The Vietnamese American Association of Raleigh, NC, headquartered in Apex, NC, represents nearly 50 years of Vietnamese American community building and cultural stewardship in North Carolina. Founded in 1977 by Vietnamese and American volunteers in response to the post-1975 exodus from Vietnam, the organization emerged from a genuine need to help newcomers navigate language barriers, cultural transitions, and the challenges of establishing themselves in their newly adopted homeland.
What began as a small gathering has evolved into a vibrant community institution that serves as the cultural and social backbone for Vietnamese Americans throughout the Raleigh area and beyond. The association's journey reflects the resilience and contributions of successive generations of Vietnamese American leaders who have guided the organization through decades of growth and change. From the original leadership of Nguyễn Xuân Hiệu and Frank E. Williams to today's dynamic Board of Directors, the association has consistently prioritized intergenerational connection and youth leadership development.
The organization's commitment extends beyond celebration to genuine community integration and cultural preservation. By hosting signature events like the Tết Festival—which has grown to welcome over 3,500 community members annually—and maintaining year-round programming, the association creates spaces where Vietnamese Americans can honor their heritage while strengthening bonds with the broader Apex and Raleigh community. The association's work spans cultural, educational, historical, and economic dimensions, reflecting the multifaceted contributions Vietnamese Americans have made to North Carolina over the past four decades. Through volunteer engagement, youth ambassador programs, and collaborative partnerships with local organizations, the Vietnamese American Association continues fostering pride in cultural identity while building bridges of understanding within the greater community.
Apex, NC