COVID-19 Update

AALEAD Message to Youth & Families on Coronavirus

Dear AALEAD community member,

We at AALEAD have been closely monitoring the development of novel coronavirus 2019 (COVID-19). We understand that you may be experiencing feelings of uncertainty, worry, fear, and anxiety. It is our priority to continue supporting the AALEAD community throughout this period with avenues to remain connected to AALEAD during program cancellations, information on COVID-19, and connections to community resources.

AALEAD Digital Program & Event Updates

AALEAD Moves to Digital Programs: In following local public school and government closure decisions,  in-person AALEAD After School Programs will be cancelled. AALEAD Programs will continue in a digital format. Program Coordinators will be in contact with AALEAD youth and family members to connect and support.

We encourage all youth to limit face-to-face contact, stay at home as much as possible, and to wash hands regularly. The best way to prevent illness and the spread of coronavirus is to avoid being exposed to the virus.

Field Trip & Events: All youth field trips, events, and meetings are cancelled Friday, March 13 – April 30, 2020.

AALEAD Staff continue working remotely and are available for youth, family, and partner communication during normal work hours. This is in accordance with CDC recommendations for social distancing.

AALEAD Stands Against Anti-Asian Discrimination

At Asian American LEAD, we know that we are stronger together. This is a time when it is especially important for us to come together as a community, share accurate information and resources, and support those who are experiencing discrimination. In recent weeks, anti-Asian discrimination has increased around fears of COVID-19. This discrimination directly impacts the physical and mental wellness of our community and the youth that we serve. AALEAD staff will continue to support youth experiencing discrimination and bullying. Staff are conducting one-on-one and group check-ins for youth to share experiences and concerns with staff members. 

It is important that we combat mis-information about COVID-19 by equipping ourselves and sharing with others the facts about coronavirus including:

• Diseases, including coronavirus, can make anyone sick regardless of race/ethnicity.
• Everyone can contribute to reducing the spread of COVID-19 by knowing the signs and symptoms and practicing simple steps to keep healthy.
• You can find regularly updated and reliable information on the coronavirus from the Center for Disease Control including fact sheets translated into Chinese and Spanish.

In collaboration and care,

Siu Cheung, AALEAD Interim Executive Director 

Ari Pak, AALEAD Programs Director