by Family Bridges | Dec 31, 2024 | News
President
J & N International Investment
Kenneth Siu was born in the 1950s in Dayong Town, Zhongshan, Guangdong. Growing up in the post-war era when the economy had yet to recover, his family lived in poverty, and his hardworking parents passed away early. From a young age, he understood the hardships and responsibilities of life, and with courage, he ventured to the United States to begin a new chapter.
When he first arrived in America during the economic downturn of the 1980s, he faced challenges such as dishonest shop owners, financial difficulties, and a frugal life. Yet, through diligence, integrity, and perseverance, he founded a seafood and meat company amid these struggles. His good reputation won the trust and support of customers, gradually establishing a stable financial foundation. Later, he went on to run several restaurants and invest in real estate and stocks, turning each challenge into an opportunity for growth. Today, he is firmly established in the Bay Area.
Having endured hardship himself, Kenneth remains grateful and mindful of his roots. He often says: “When I was young, a kind person lit a lamp for me; today, I hope to use my own strength to light a small part of the road for others.” Over the years, he has actively participated in elder care and community charity work, giving back to the community through his personal achievements.
Running for the title of “Charity King” in 2025, Kenneth hopes that through his own experiences and goodwill, he can inspire more people to join in philanthropy, strengthen community bonds, and pass on this love and hope across generations.
Individual
Branch Manager
Metropolitan Bank
Jessica Chen was born and raised in Taipei, Taiwan. She moved to the Bay Area after completing graduate school. Jessica is currently the Branch Manager of the Metropolitan Bank Oakland Chinatown Branch.
She began her involvement in the Asian community in 2010 while working as a daily breaking news reporter for the World Journal. Since then, she has served the community in various roles within public service and nonprofit organizations. Her passion lies in working with diverse groups and connecting them with resources to support the community.
With her family still residing in Taiwan, Jessica devotes her time to supporting families and seniors in Oakland’s Chinatown, treating them as her own. On behalf of the Family Bridges Board, Jessica is proudly participating in the Charity Queen contest to help reach Family Bridges’ fundraising goal.
Executive Director & Founder
Mental Health Association for Chinese Communities
Elaine Peng(彭一玲) immigrated to the United States from Guangzhou twenty years ago, guided by the Confucian principle: “Honor your own elders, and extend that honor to the elders of others; care for your own young, and extend that care to the young of others.” She has since devoted her life to public service as her mission.
Twelve years ago, she founded the Mental Health Association for Chinese Communities (MHACC), which has safeguarded countless families. For her exceptional contributions, she has received numerous honors, including commendations from the California Governor Gavin Newsom and former United States President Joe Biden. She has also represented the community at the White House’s AA and NHPI Mental Health Convening. MHACC was also named California’s 2017 Nonprofit Organization of the Year. A tireless advocate for civil rights, she served as a plaintiff in litigation against the U.S. Department of Commerce and Department of Justice, successfully protecting the WeChat access rights of 20 million American users.
As President of MHACC, Ms. Peng has organized over one thousand support groups and workshops, established a year-round 1-800 Warmline serving more than 11,000 people annually, and launched mobile applications that provide 24/7 free mental health support, ensuring care is accessible anytime, anywhere. During the COVID-19 pandemic, she mobilized cross-border resources to protect healthcare workers and vulnerable populations in both Hubei and the United States, while also launching initiatives such as “Love Meals” and the “$1 Senior Rides” program, benefiting over 4,000 seniors.
In addition, she has served on multiple local and state government advisory committees, as well as the boards of several nonprofit organizations, dedicating her knowledge and compassion to community service. She has been an outspoken leader in policy reform, championing California’s CARE Court (Community Assistance, Recovery, and Empowerment Court) and legislation to improve wages for In-Home Supportive Services (IHSS) caregivers. Beyond advocacy, she has organized safety patrols and anti-Asian hate rallies, led the Oakland Chinatown Lunar New Year Parade, and hosted large-scale cultural fairs for Qixi (Chinese Valentine’s Day) and the Winter Solstice to celebrate Chinese heritage and stimulate the local economy. She also founded the National Mental Health Singing Contest in Oakland Chinatown, and successfully convened the 80th Anniversary Commemoration of the Repeal of the Chinese Exclusion Act in the U.S. Congress, uniting Chinese Americans nationwide and highlighting the shared destiny of the community.
As a candidate for Charity Queen, Elaine Peng is dedicated to channeling her passion and professional expertise in public service to advance the mission of Family Bridges, pledging to bring together greater resources and compassion to uplift vulnerable populations and spread warmth and hope throughout the community.
Owner
East Ocean Seafood Restaurant
Hello my name is David Chan and I am from Hong Kong. I moved to California from Aspen, Colorado back in late 2018 to purchase East Ocean seafood restaurant in Alameda. I enjoy most outdoors activities, snowboarding, Skiing, Surfing, biking and hiking among others. I also enjoy traveling and riding motorcycles.
I have been working since I was a kid. Mostly in the hospitality industry, therefore most of the business I have been involved with belong to that genre.
Living in Colorado was amazing, but as years went on I felt that it got colder so moving back to California was something I always wanted. Somehow the chance to purchase East Ocean came about so I jumped on that opportunity and I am still very grateful that I did. The original owners had done such an amazing job thru out the years so the transition was very easy.
I am currently toying with the idea of opening a few more in the Bay Area, but you never know. I appreciate the opportunity to participate and wish everyone is well and healthy, thank you for your time and come by for a cup of tea.
General
Social Services
Hong Lok Senior Center
Hong Fook Centers
Lake Merritt Child Care Center
Housing and Community Services
General
Social Services
Hong Lok Senior Center
Hong Fook Centers
Lake Merritt Child Care Center
Housing and Community Services
Johnny O’Brien is a visionary leader with a distinguished career in advancing health and human services for underserved communities. As CEO of Family Bridges, he leverages extensive experience leading community health organizations to expand access to culturally responsive, high-quality care across California.
Mr. O’Brien has successfully spearheaded initiatives such as primary and specialty clinic expansions, school-based health centers, Medi-Cal and Medicare enrollment programs, and community advocacy efforts. His work has consistently improved access to care for low-income families, seniors, and diverse populations.
Johnny holds a Master of Public Health from San Jose State University and a Bachelor’s degree in Political Science from UC Riverside. With expertise in strategic planning, operational leadership, and fund development, he is committed to promoting equity and transformative solutions for vulnerable populations