On the occasion of the fifth anniversary of the founding of the “Community Safety Everyone’s Responsibility” Foundation (TACF) in the Chinese community of Los Angeles County, a handover ceremony was held on Saturday, the 14th. Vice Mayor Willy Wu of Walnut City oversaw the transition as outgoing President, retired engineer Guan Yixiu, passed the baton to the new President, Chinese woman from Diamond Bar, Li Minni.
The event brought together hundreds of elected officials, representatives, community members, and residents at the Panyu Seafood Restaurant in Diamond Bar, witnessing a new chapter for TACF. During the ceremony, TACF was also recognized by a state senator, highlighting its significant influence.
Established at a critical time during the pandemic in 2021, when people were wearing masks and some criminals took advantage of the situation to commit robberies. The “zero bail” policy for thefts under $950 in California led to rampant community crime. Chinese neighborhoods such as Diamond Bar, Rowland Heights, and Walnut City became targets for criminals. TACF emerged to take on the responsibility of defending the homes of the Chinese community.
Guan Yixiu mentioned that with the increasing insecurity in their homeland where they spent their retirement years, he and a group of retired residents passionate about public welfare founded the organization, hoping to assist understaffed police departments in community patrols. With the support of the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department, six members joined the Volunteer Patrol Program (VOP) after training.
In addition, TACF collaborated from various aspects to improve public safety: they requested the assistance of Los Angeles County Supervisor Janice Hahn to install 44 high-quality surveillance cameras in busy community areas; through online and offline activities, they connected thousands of residents; organized officers to participate in crime prevention programs on Chinese radio stations; held seminars to guide voters to support Proposition 36 to abolish policies that coddle criminals; also donated to families of struggling veterans, visited and supported officers, and fostered harmonious police-community relations.
Faye Lee, a food scientist who has been in the U.S. for over forty years, recalled a robbery that shook the Chinese community three years ago: an elderly Chinese man was shopping at a Chinese supermarket when he was attacked by two masked thugs, beaten and robbed of his Rolex watch right after leaving the store. The news spread, causing many residents to be afraid to go out. Then TACF’s President at the time, Chuck Sun, took the initiative to contact the Los Angeles County Sheriff’s Department. They were touched by the community’s proactive initiative and committed police resources to the investigation, leading to the arrest of the culprits within a month.
The efforts of TACF have been recognized by California officials and community members. State Senator Bob Archuleta sent representative Kyle Miller to present the commendation. Miller stated that the volunteer patrol program TACF members participate in has been very effective in improving community safety.
Former Mayor of Walnut City and candidate for the 31st Congressional District of California, Qin Zhenguo, noted that in his impression, Chinese community organizations are primarily recreational or business associations, with fewer contributing to community safety. He believes that TACF has made significant contributions to the community.
Qin Zhenguo pointed out that Chinese immigrants joining public welfare organizations like TACF help them integrate into American society, stating that “there are more older immigrants, as well as some professionals and local officials in the organization, which is more helpful to new arrivals.”
Newly appointed President and Director of the Walnut Valley Water District, Li Minni, is actively involved in public welfare in the community. She stated that during her tenure, she will lead TACF to expand crime prevention programs, support neighborhood watch initiatives, and ensure that families, the elderly, and vulnerable groups receive the necessary resources and feel protected.
Li Minni emphasized that community safety concerns everyone, especially new Chinese immigrants who often face language barriers. TACF actively cares for victims, provides support, and assistance.
She also encouraged new immigrants to get involved, saying, “TACF is like a big family. Once we get to know you, we will care about you, provide support, and work with you to integrate into mainstream society.”