Political Quotes

“I want to take a few moments to acknowledge Bernarda ``Bernie'' Wong, founder and president of the Chinese American Service League, CASL--and Esther Wong, cofounder and executive director of CASL. Earlier this year, Bernie and Esther announced they would be retiring on December 31, 2016. Nearly 40 years ago, along with eight Chinese American friends, Bernie and Esther gathered over potluck dinners to discuss the needs of the Chinese community in Chicago. These discussions led to the creation of the Chinese American Service League, commonly referred to as CASL. CASL began with the goal of teaching English as a second language to Chinese immigrants. But today, because of Bernie's leadership, CASL has become one of the largest Asian American social service organizations in the country, providing social support services from early childhood development through elder care. Born and raised in Hong Kong, Bernie moved to the United States in 1962 at the age of 18. Like many immigrants, Bernie came to the United States to further her education. She was awarded a full scholarship to attend Briar Cliff University in Sioux City, IA, and graduated in 1962 with a degree in social work. Before moving to Chicago, Bernie received her master's degree in social work from Washington University in St. Louis. Social work was in her blood. Her mother used tell her, ``Share and give. Even if you don't have much, you share it . .…”