Chin Community of Florida

Coming together to embrace and preserve our cultural heritage.

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Chin Community of Florida

Coming together to embrace and preserve our cultural heritage.

Donate Now

Learn More

Who We Are

About Us

It brings us immense joy to welcome you to the official website of the Chin Community of Florida. As we navigate through the ever-changing currents of the world, we find strength, unity, and purpose in coming together to embrace and preserve our rich culture, language, and identity.

At the heart of our community is a commitment to cherishing the traditions that define us. We understand that in the face of a rapidly evolving world, it is crucial to hold steadfast to the essence of who we are.

The Chin Community of Florida, Inc. (CCF) is a 501 (c)(3) non-profit organization based in Jacksonville, Florida, that integrates and empowers the Chin Communities in Florida. The Chin Communities have been growing in number in Florida since 2002 due to fleeing from the military dictatorship of our mother country, Burma (Myanmar). Having been relocated to a new place and environment, we face many challenges that make us willingly help each other to meet our basic social and human needs. The social condition of the Chin community necessitated the emergence of a community organization to serve its members’ daily survival. With the conviction to serve the Chin community and provide means to integrate into the local social structure, the Chin in Florida established the Chin Community of Florida(CCF) in 2021. Our community population is growing to about 5000 Chin population as of 2024.

The vision of the Chin Community of Florida is rooted in the aspiration to be thriving and contributing members of a broader community that is welcoming and supportive. We envision a future where the Chin community not only preserves its unique cultural identity but actively contributes to the diverse tapestry of the larger community in Florida. Here's an elaboration on this vision:

Thrive in Unity

We envision a community that thrives in unity, where every individual finds strength, support, and encouragement within the Chin Community of Florida. Through fostering a sense of belonging, we aim to empower our members to pursue their aspirations and contribute to the collective growth of our community.

Preserving Cultural Richness

At the core of our vision is the commitment to preserving the rich cultural heritage of the Chin people. While embracing the values, traditions, and language that define us, we recognize the importance of sharing these aspects with the broader community. By doing so, we contribute to the cultural diversity that makes Florida a vibrant and inclusive place to live.

Active Contribution to the Broader Community

We aspire to be active contributors to the broader community in Florida. Whether through cultural events, educational initiatives, or collaborative projects, we seek to share our unique perspectives and talents. By engaging in meaningful dialogues and collaborations, we hope to build bridges of understanding and appreciation between the Chin community and the diverse groups that make up the larger community.

Building Bridges of Understanding

Our vision extends beyond cultural preservation; it encompasses the creation of bridges that connect the Chin community with others. We aim to facilitate cultural exchange, breaking down barriers, and fostering a deeper understanding of our shared humanity. Through these connections, we contribute to the building of a more inclusive and harmonious society.

Welcoming and Supportive Community

We envision a community that is not only welcomed by the broader society but actively contributes to creating an environment that is inclusive and supportive. By establishing connections, forming partnerships, and participating in community-building activities, we strive to be an integral part of a welcoming community that values diversity and mutual respect.

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In embracing this vision, the Chin Community of Florida is committed to playing an active role in the ever-evolving social fabric of our region. We believe that by thriving within our community and contributing meaningfully to the broader community, we can collectively create a harmonious and enriching environment for all. Together, we are building a future where the Chin community is an integral and celebrated part of the diverse mosaic that is Florida.

· To enable the Chin community in Florida to successfully integrate into American society while preserving Chin literature and culture and to pursue durable solutions for Chin and other refugees around the globe.

· To provide assistance and resources to help them secure and maintain stable employment that provides a reliable source of income and benefits.

· To create a pathway to self-sufficiency for the Chin community by supporting education, employment, and citizenship services.

· To give back to the Florida community that welcomed us as refugees and Asylums.

Cultural Preservation and Integration
Foster a balance between successful integration into American society and the preservation of Chin literature and culture.

Create programs and initiatives that empower individuals to adapt to their new environment while maintaining a strong connection to their cultural roots.

Employment Stability
Provide assistance and resources to help members of the Chin community secure and maintain stable employment.

Collaborate with local businesses and organizations to create employment opportunities and enhance the employability of community members.

Economic Empowerment
Create a pathway to self-sufficiency by supporting education, employment, and citizenship services.

Establish educational programs and resources that empower community members to enhance their skills and qualifications, fostering economic independence.

Citizenship Support
Facilitate the process of obtaining citizenship by providing guidance and resources.

Offer citizenship services, including workshops and legal assistance, to streamline the naturalization process for community members.

Community Contribution
Instill a sense of gratitude and community responsibility by giving back to the Florida community that welcomed the Chin community as refugees and asylum-seekers.

Encourage community members to participate in volunteer activities, community service projects, and initiatives that contribute positively to the local community.

Education and Skill Development
Support educational initiatives that promote the academic success of Chin youth.

Provide resources for skill development and vocational training to enhance the employability of community members in various sectors.

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This mission and these goals reflect a commitment to not only preserving cultural identity but also actively contributing to the well-being and prosperity of both the Chin community and the broader Florida community.

Our Impact

Community Outreach

Through various initiatives, we encourage our people to engage in volunteer work, community service projects, and fundraising activities that not only enrich their own lives but also have a positive impact on the communities they serve. Additionally, we actively collaborate with other organizations that share our goals and vision, organizing joint events that amplify our collective impact. By fostering partnerships, we create a network of support that ensures a unified approach toward addressing community needs. This collaborative spirit not only strengthens our organization's reach but also reinforces our commitment to creating a lasting, positive change in the communities we serve, both locally and globally.

Fundraising

Our organization is dedicated to creating impactful fundraising programs that not only resonate with our local community in the US but also extend a helping hand to those in need around the globe. We believe in the power of diversity and engagement, and as such, our fundraising initiatives encompass a variety of events. From music concerts featuring both local talents and renowned artists to vibrant food vendor fairs offering a culinary journey, we strive to create enjoyable experiences that inspire generosity. Our special speaker events add an educational and motivational dimension, encouraging attendees to contribute to our community projects. We are committed to making a global impact.

Chin National Day

Chin National Day, observed annually on the 20th of February, holds profound significance as a day dedicated to celebrating the essence of being Chin.

Annually, our organization proudly celebrates Chin National Day, a significant event that serves as a poignant reminder of our origin, identity, and rich cultural heritage. This day holds special importance as it allows us to reflect on and honor our roots, fostering a deep sense of connection among our community members. Through vibrant and culturally rich festivities, we not only commemorate our shared history but also strive to preserve and promote the diverse traditions that define us. The celebration includes traditional dances, music performances, and cultural exhibitions that showcase the beauty and uniqueness of Chin culture. It becomes a time for community members to come together, strengthening bonds, and passing on our cultural legacy to younger generations. Chin National Day serves as a testament to our commitment to preserving and celebrating our heritage, reinforcing the importance of maintaining a strong sense of identity amidst the ever-changing global landscape.

We invite you this year to join us as we celebrate our 76th Chin National Day!