GRAPF.ORG
GRAND RAPIDS ASIAN PACIFIC FOUNDATION
EST. 2017
What is grapf?
Grand Rapids Asian Pacific Foundation (GRAPF) is a community-based 501c3 nonprofit organization that strives to promote cultural awareness and provide vital resources to support the thriving AAPI community in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. Our ultimate mission is to ensure that our community has access to opportunities that lead to financial stability and the ability to achieve their full potential, both today and in the future.
GRAPF's focus is primarily on three areas that are essential to achieving our goals:
Firstly, we aim to cultivate a sense of belonging and foster cultural pride by hosting cultural events and festivals that celebrate the rich diversity of our community. These events provide a safe space for individuals to connect, share their cultural heritage, and express their identity.
Secondly, we promote economic equity through business development by providing support and resources to help AAPI-owned businesses succeed. By doing so, we create job opportunities and contribute to the local economy, further strengthening our community.
Lastly, we empower our community by developing talent through programs and services designed to help individuals improve their skills and abilities, allowing them to impact our community positively.
At GRAPF, we are committed to ensuring the ongoing success of the AAPI community in Grand Rapids and the surrounding areas. Diversity is a strength; we can all rise together as a community. To this end, we actively seek to collaborate with diverse communities outside the AAPI community to promote cross-cultural understanding and create opportunities for all community members to thrive.
We aim to unite people, foster collaboration, and create a more vibrant and inclusive community through our cultural events, business development initiatives, and talent development programs. By working together, we can create a brighter future for all.
Our goal is to create a lasting impact on the communities of West Michigan. You can help us achieve this by volunteering, attending events, or donating. Working together, we can make a positive difference, and your support is priceless.
Prepare for the ultimate two-day water adventure and celebration at our third annual Global Water Fest!
Presented by Downtown Grand Rapids INC.
July 29-30 Canal Park - Free attend, OPEN TO ALL.
New this year - Community dragon boat paddling, canoes, and kayaks are available through GR Outdoors, and paddle boards are provided by 4the22.
July 29 Schedule:
8 am to 9 am: Community river clean-up open invitation (everyone is welcome)
9:30 am: Grand opening ceremony - Awakening the dragon
10 am: Dragon boat races begin
10 am to 3 pm: Dragon boat races, live entertainment, storytelling, cultural and contemporary performances
3:15 pm: Final Race - Top 4 teams compete for placement
4 pm to 5:30 pm: Paddle board lessons, yoga, open community dragon boat rides, photo opportunity
5:30 pm: Awards ceremony
5:30 pm to 7 pm: Community Luau Party (everyone is welcome)
July 30 Schedule:
11 am to 12 pm: Community river clean-up invitation
12 pm to 5 pm: Youth races, open community dragon boat rides, community games, and live entertainment.
Are you interested in becoming a foundation partner or sponsoring our festival?
Please email Ace@grapf.org
