A Celebration of
Community, Culture, and Impact
Our 29th Annual Giving Thanks Fundraiser was more than an event—it was a powerful gathering of hearts, hope, and shared purpose. This special evening brought together community members, supporters, partners, and friends who all believe in uplifting and empowering the families we serve. From the moment guests arrived, the room filled with energy, connection, and a deep sense of gratitude.
The night featured moving stories, vibrant cultural performances, and moments that reminded us why this tradition continues to grow year after year. Each smile, every conversation, and every act of generosity helped strengthen the mission that drives The Fresno Center forward. Guests didn’t just attend—they contributed to real change, helping expand essential programs and services that make a lasting difference throughout the Central Valley.
As we look back on the highlights, the heartfelt moments, and the incredible support shown by our community, we celebrate not just an event, but a shared commitment to healing, empowerment, and unity. Join us as we revisit the memories that made this year’s Giving Thanks celebration truly unforgettable.
A Celebration of
Community, Culture, and Impact
Our 29th Annual Giving Thanks Fundraiser was more than an event—it was a powerful gathering of hearts, hope, and shared purpose. This special evening brought together community members, supporters, partners, and friends who all believe in uplifting and empowering the families we serve. From the moment guests arrived, the room filled with energy, connection, and a deep sense of gratitude.
The night featured moving stories, vibrant cultural performances, and moments that reminded us why this tradition continues to grow year after year. Each smile, every conversation, and every act of generosity helped strengthen the mission that drives The Fresno Center forward. Guests didn’t just attend—they contributed to real change, helping expand essential programs and services that make a lasting difference throughout the Central Valley.
As we look back on the highlights, the heartfelt moments, and the incredible support shown by our community, we celebrate not just an event, but a shared commitment to healing, empowerment, and unity. Join us as we revisit the memories that made this year’s Giving Thanks celebration truly unforgettable.
A Celebration of
Community, Culture, and Impact
Our 29th Annual Giving Thanks Fundraiser was more than an event—it was a powerful gathering of hearts, hope, and shared purpose. This special evening brought together community members, supporters, partners, and friends who all believe in uplifting and empowering the families we serve. From the moment guests arrived, the room filled with energy, connection, and a deep sense of gratitude.
The night featured moving stories, vibrant cultural performances, and moments that reminded us why this tradition continues to grow year after year. Each smile, every conversation, and every act of generosity helped strengthen the mission that drives The Fresno Center forward. Guests didn’t just attend—they contributed to real change, helping expand essential programs and services that make a lasting difference throughout the Central Valley.
As we look back on the highlights, the heartfelt moments, and the incredible support shown by our community, we celebrate not just an event, but a shared commitment to healing, empowerment, and unity. Join us as we revisit the memories that made this year’s Giving Thanks celebration truly unforgettable.
A Celebration of
Community, Culture, and Impact
Our 29th Annual Giving Thanks Fundraiser was more than an event—it was a powerful gathering of hearts, hope, and shared purpose. This special evening brought together community members, supporters, partners, and friends who all believe in uplifting and empowering the families we serve. From the moment guests arrived, the room filled with energy, connection, and a deep sense of gratitude.
The night featured moving stories, vibrant cultural performances, and moments that reminded us why this tradition continues to grow year after year. Each smile, every conversation, and every act of generosity helped strengthen the mission that drives The Fresno Center forward. Guests didn’t just attend—they contributed to real change, helping expand essential programs and services that make a lasting difference throughout the Central Valley.
As we look back on the highlights, the heartfelt moments, and the incredible support shown by our community, we celebrate not just an event, but a shared commitment to healing, empowerment, and unity. Join us as we revisit the memories that made this year’s Giving Thanks celebration truly unforgettable.
CELEBRATION
CELEBRATION
STORIES AND HIGHLIGHTS
STORIES
AND HIGHLIGHT
Award-Winning Journalist, Cultural Storyteller, and Community Leader
Gia Vang is an Emmy Award–winning television news journalist with nearly 20 years of experience and currently serves as an anchor and reporter for NBC Bay Area. She previously made history in Minnesota as the first anchor of Hmong descent in a major U.S. news market. Raised in South Sacramento as the daughter of Hmong refugees from Laos, Gia is a Sacramento State journalism graduate and the co-founder of the Very Asian Foundation, a nonprofit launched in 2022 that transforms racist voicemails into advocacy, education, and celebration while uplifting AANHPI voices through nationwide library book donations and global community support. As Master of Ceremonies for The Giving Thanks event, Gia provided a cheerful, heartfelt, and professional atmosphere that celebrated culture and history while thoughtfully honoring key community leaders, partners, and sponsors, creating a meaningful and memorable evening for all in attendance.
Award-Winning Journalist, Cultural Storyteller, and Community Leader
Gia Vang is an Emmy Award–winning television news journalist with nearly 20 years of experience and currently serves as an anchor and reporter for NBC Bay Area. She previously made history in Minnesota as the first anchor of Hmong descent in a major U.S. news market. Raised in South Sacramento as the daughter of Hmong refugees from Laos, Gia is a Sacramento State journalism graduate and the co-founder of the Very Asian Foundation, a nonprofit launched in 2022 that transforms racist voicemails into advocacy, education, and celebration while uplifting AANHPI voices through nationwide library book donations and global community support. As Master of Ceremonies for The Giving Thanks event, Gia provided a cheerful, heartfelt, and professional atmosphere that celebrated culture and history while thoughtfully honoring key community leaders, partners, and sponsors, creating a meaningful and memorable evening for all in attendance.
Award-Winning Journalist, Cultural Storyteller, and Community Leader
Gia Vang is an Emmy Award–winning television news journalist with nearly 20 years of experience and currently serves as an anchor and reporter for NBC Bay Area. She previously made history in Minnesota as the first anchor of Hmong descent in a major U.S. news market. Raised in South Sacramento as the daughter of Hmong refugees from Laos, Gia is a Sacramento State journalism graduate and the co-founder of the Very Asian Foundation, a nonprofit launched in 2022 that transforms racist voicemails into advocacy, education, and celebration while uplifting AANHPI voices through nationwide library book donations and global community support. As Master of Ceremonies for The Giving Thanks event, Gia provided a cheerful, heartfelt, and professional atmosphere that celebrated culture and history while thoughtfully honoring key community leaders, partners, and sponsors, creating a meaningful and memorable evening for all in attendance.
Mayor Jerry Dyer, Community Leader
Mayor Jerry Dyer, Community Leader
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, a lifelong public servant and champion of community-centered leadership, delivered a powerful and motivating keynote speech that truly captured the spirit of The Fresno Center and its meaningful contributions to the City of Fresno. As Mayor, Dyer leads with his “One Fresno” vision—focused on inclusivity, opportunity, and a government that listens and works for the people—building on decades of service that include 40 years with the Fresno Police Department and 18 years as Chief. His leadership has driven transformative initiatives across housing, homelessness reduction, downtown revitalization, workforce development, and youth engagement, helping thousands of Fresno residents secure long-term housing, job training, and pathways to homeownership. Joined by his wife, Diane, Mayor Dyer energized the room with his message, remained after his remarks to take photos, and warmly mingled with guests, further reflecting his genuine commitment to community connection and service.
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, a lifelong public servant, delivered an inspiring keynote highlighting The Fresno Center’s impact on the city. With his “One Fresno” vision, Dyer has championed inclusivity, housing, workforce development, and youth engagement, helping thousands access housing, job training, and homeownership. Joined by his wife Diane, he energized the audience, posed for photos, and warmly connected with guests, reflecting his genuine commitment to the community.
Celebrating 50 Years of Hmong Resettlement Through Leadership and Legacy
Celebrating 50 Years of Hmong Resettlement Through Leadership and Legacy
As the event unfolded, the celebration marking 50 years of Hmong Resettlement became a powerful moment of reflection and recognition, centering on the life and legacy of Neng Chu Vang, son of the late General Vang Pao. A respected community leader and the President and Founder of the Hmong Development Foundation, Neng Chu Vang has dedicated his life to advancing unity, opportunity, and resettlement efforts for Hmong communities both in the United States and abroad. In honor of his decades of leadership, advocacy, and service, he was presented with a Leadership Award, recognizing his lasting impact on preserving Hmong history, strengthening community ties, and inspiring future generations.
CRDP Program Shines with Dance and Cultural Fashion Expo
The CRDP Program participants recently delighted the community with a lively dance performance and a cultural fashion expo, showcasing styles from throughout the year. The event was both entertaining and educational, highlighting the participants’ creativity, talent, and cultural pride. From dynamic dance routines to a diverse array of traditional and contemporary fashion, attendees enjoyed a vibrant celebration of artistry and heritage, leaving inspired and excited for future showcases.
Mayor Jerry Dyer, Community Leader
Fresno Mayor Jerry Dyer, a lifelong public servant and champion of community-centered leadership, delivered a powerful and motivating keynote speech that truly captured the spirit of The Fresno Center and its meaningful contributions to the City of Fresno. As Mayor, Dyer leads with his “One Fresno” vision—focused on inclusivity, opportunity, and a government that listens and works for the people—building on decades of service that include 40 years with the Fresno Police Department and 18 years as Chief. His leadership has driven transformative initiatives across housing, homelessness reduction, downtown revitalization, workforce development, and youth engagement, helping thousands of Fresno residents secure long-term housing, job training, and pathways to homeownership. Joined by his wife, Diane, Mayor Dyer energized the room with his message, remained after his remarks to take photos, and warmly mingled with guests, further reflecting his genuine commitment to community connection and service.
Celebrating 50 Years of Hmong Resettlement Through Leadership and Legacy
As the event unfolded, the celebration marking 50 years of Hmong Resettlement became a powerful moment of reflection and recognition, centering on the life and legacy of Neng Chu Vang, son of the late General Vang Pao. A respected community leader and the President and Founder of the Hmong Development Foundation, Neng Chu Vang has dedicated his life to advancing unity, opportunity, and resettlement efforts for Hmong communities both in the United States and abroad. In honor of his decades of leadership, advocacy, and service, he was presented with a Leadership Award, recognizing his lasting impact on preserving Hmong history, strengthening community ties, and inspiring future generations.
CRDP Program Shines with Dance and Cultural Fashion Expo
The CRDP Program participants recently delighted the community with a lively dance performance and a cultural fashion expo, showcasing styles from throughout the year. The event was both entertaining and educational, highlighting the participants’ creativity, talent, and cultural pride. From dynamic dance routines to a diverse array of traditional and contemporary fashion, attendees enjoyed a vibrant celebration of artistry and heritage, leaving inspired and excited for future showcases.
CRDP Program Shines with Dance and Cultural Fashion Expo
The CRDP Program participants recently delighted the community with a lively dance performance and a cultural fashion expo, showcasing styles from throughout the year. The event was both entertaining and educational, highlighting the participants’ creativity, talent, and cultural pride. From dynamic dance routines to a diverse array of traditional and contemporary fashion, attendees enjoyed a vibrant celebration of artistry and heritage, leaving inspired and excited for future showcases.
DONATE TODAY
Your tax-deductible donation makes it
possible for us to continue our important work.
DONATE TODAY
Your tax-deductible donation makes it
possible for us to continue our important work.
DONATE TODAY
Your tax-deductible donation makes it possible for us to continue our important work.
DONATE TODAY
Your tax-deductible donation makes it
possible for us to continue our important work.
DONATE TODAY
Your tax-deductible donation makes it
possible for us to continue our important work.
HOURS:
Monday-Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Closed weekend
CLOSED HOLIDAYS
View closing dates >
HOURS:
Monday-Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Closed weekend
CLOSED HOLIDAYS
View closing dates >
HOURS:
Monday-Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Closed weekend
CLOSED HOLIDAYS
View closing dates >
HOURS:
Monday-Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Closed weekend
CLOSED HOLIDAYS
View closing dates >
HOURS:
Monday-Friday
8 AM - 5 PM
Closed weekend
CLOSED HOLIDAYS
View closing dates >