Building Connections Across Cultures
As we reflect on 2024 and prepare to celebrate our 40th anniversary in 2025, Chinese Culture Connection is proud of our continual efforts to foster cultural exchange and strengthen community bonds. This year, we hosted numerous impactful events, and we’ve chosen one from each month to highlight the vibrancy and diversity of our programming.
Let’s take a look back at the highlights of this remarkable year!
January
Little Dragon After School Program
In January, CCC’s Little Dragon After School Program staff actively prepared for the new year, designing activities and lessons to support students’ academic growth and cultural learning. Their efforts laid a solid foundation for another year of enriching and impactful programming.
February
15th Annual Malden Lunar New Year Celebration
On February 3, CCC hosted the 15th Annual Malden Lunar New Year Celebration, attracting over 1,300 participants. Highlights include martial arts, lion dances, Berklee ensembles, and the unveiling of the U.S. Postal Service Lunar New Year stamp. The event fostered cultural pride and strengthened community bonds through celebration.
March
Bu Dai Xi Hand Puppet Show
Supported by the Malden Cultural Council, CCC presented two Bu Da Xi puppet shows with live Chinese music—one at the Malden Public Library and another at CCC’s Little Dragon After School Program, featuring scenes from Journey to the West, attracted 70 attendees and offered an immersive introduction to this traditional Chinese art form.
April
20th Annual Fundraising Gala & Awards Ceremony
On April 6, CCC's fundraising gala brought together over 200 guests to celebrate the organization’s impact and accomplishments. The event served as a vital opportunity for supporters to connect, honor community leaders, and contribute to CCC’s mission. Through inspiring speeches, cultural performances, and successful auctions, the gala raised essential funds to sustain and expand CCC’s programs, ensuring long-term growth and community impact.
May
AAPI Heritage Month Celebration
On May 4, CCC celebrated AAPI Heritage Month, bringing together 120 attendees for an afternoon of cultural exploration and community connection. The event featured storytelling from individuals who shared their journeys of resilience and belonging, alongside opportunities to enjoy traditional food, cultural displays, and captivating performances. It was a celebration of the beauty of diversity and the shared power of stories to bridge communities.
June
Explore the Malden River
In June, CCC hosted a family-friendly event at Malden River, drawing 500 participants to connect with nature and explore environmental sustainability. The event featured activities such as kite flying and interactive educational sessions, fostering a sense of environmental stewardship while strengthening family and community bonds.
July
CCC's Open House
In July, CCC welcomed 160 participants to its Open House, a vibrant event that showcased the organization’s programs and its impact on the community. A highlight of the event was the recognition of volunteers, including recipients of the U.S. Presidential Volunteer Service Award. The gathering fostered stronger connections within the community and inspired new opportunities for collaboration.
August
"Show and Tell" Senior Celebration
In August, CCC brought over 100 participants together to celebrate the talents of seniors in Malden and neighboring cities at Malden Senior Center. The event featured singing, martial arts, and music performances, and various hand-on activities.It provided a platform for seniors to share their talents, connect with peers, and promote active aging within the community.
September
2024 Bike to the Moon
In September, CCC and Bike to the Sea hosted 60 participants for a family-friendly biking event celebrating the Mid-Autumn Festival. Participants enjoyed scenic rides, mooncake tasting, and kite flying, blending cultural tradition with outdoor fun.
October
Massachusetts Ballot Question Forum
CCC hosted a Ballot Question Forum attended by over 50 in-person and online participants. Expert panelists explained key issues and highlighted the importance of voting YES, equipping attendees with knowledge to make informed decisions.
November
10th Annual Thanksgiving Ping Pong Tournament
In November, CCC celebrated the 10th anniversary of its Thanksgiving Ping Pong Tournament, welcoming 166 players aged 8 to 82. The event fostered cultural connection and intergenerational engagement through a shared passion for sports, promoting unity and healthy competition in the bigger Boston area.
Looking Back on a Year of Impact
In 2024, CCC hosted approximately 100 events, including weekly workshops for seniors at residential communities and large-scale events like the Lunar New Year Celebration, which attracted thousands of attendees. This year, we also expanded our services to youth and young professionals, continuing our mentorship for the Key Club at Malden High School and establishing a Young Professional Committee to foster leadership and community engagement.
For more updates and to stay connected, follow us on Instagram and Facebook, or reach out on WeChat (id: Chinesecc1985) !
Acknowledgments
We extend our deepest gratitude to all our supporters, including volunteers, sponsors, and community partners, for making 2024 an incredible year. Your dedication ensures CCC’s continued success in fostering cultural exchange and community connection.