About HMAAC
Mission
The Hmong American Association of Colorado is a nonprofit organization devoted to honoring, promoting, and preserving Hmong culture and traditions, while uniting and strengthening the Hmong community through cultural, social, educational, and economic initiatives.
Vision
To be a cornerstone of the community, cultivating a thriving, resilient, and united Hmong community where culture and heritage are honored and preserved, and members embrace pride in their identity.
HMAAC is a leading nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving Hmong culture and strengthening the Colorado Hmong community through impactful cultural, educational, and community-driven programs.
We achieve this by:
1. Preserving and promoting Hmong culture and traditions through programs such as cultural arts, language education, and intergenerational learning opportunities;
2. Providing community-centered programs and services that support youth leadership, education, wellness, and economic opportunity for individuals and families;
3. Strengthening community connections by creating spaces for engagement, collaboration, and resource-sharing across the Hmong community and broader Colorado landscape;
4. Advocating for increased access to resources, representation, and opportunities that address the evolving needs of the Hmong community.
Our History
Founded in 1992, the Hmong American Association of Colorado (HMAAC) was established in response to a growing need for a unified organization to serve and support the Hmong community across Colorado. Built by community leaders and representatives from Hmong clans, HMAAC was grounded in cultural pride, shared responsibility, and a commitment to uplifting future generations.
Over the years, HMAAC experienced periods of both growth and pause, reflecting the realities of sustaining a volunteer-led organization with limited infrastructure and resources. Even during these times, the community remained deeply connected—continuing traditions such as the Hmong New Year celebration and Summer Festival through clan leadership and collective effort.
In 2023, HMAAC reached a pivotal moment. As the organization faced possible dissolution, the community came together to reimagine its future. New leadership stepped forward, bringing renewed vision and a commitment to rebuilding HMAAC into a sustainable, community-driven institution.
Since then, HMAAC has undergone significant transformation. The organization developed its first-ever strategic plan (2025–2030), updated its bylaws to reflect current needs, expanded from a volunteer-led model to a growing team with dedicated staff, strengthening its capacity to lead and sustain community-wide initiatives.
Today, HMAAC is focused on strengthening its foundation—building the systems, leadership, and infrastructure needed to serve the Hmong community for the next 50 years and beyond.