About FAAP
The association started out as an informal social group in 1957. It was formally organized as the Samahang Pilipino ng Pittsburgh in 1964 and renamed the Filipino American Association of Pittsburgh, Inc. in 2000 when it was incorporated as a non-profit organization. It has been granted public charity status and classified as tax-exempt under Section 501(c)(3) of the Internal Revenue Code. The FAAP is a strong and dynamic organization, thanks to its hard-working team of volunteers and supportive members. There is no paid staff and all FAAP funds aredirected towards its programs.
Vision Statement
We envision a dynamic and vibrant Filipino American community that is recognized and valued as an integral part of America's ethnic diversity.
Mission Statement
Our mission is to preserve, promote and perpetuate the Filipino heritage among our members and the general public through cultural, charitable and educational activities.
Core Values
Bayanihan Spirit We are committed to cooperation and camaraderie, unselfishly caring for others and working for the common good. It is an espirit d’corps that elevates volunteering of one’s self, time and resources to the highest and most admirable levels.
Respect We show respect for everyone, always courteous in word and demeanor, open to ideas and opposing points of view. We are caring of our elders who have nurtured us with their wisdom and experience. We value our children who look to us as true and unflinching role models.
Non-discriminatory We believe in the equality of all people, treating them with fairness and tolerance, accepting of their faith, politics, economic status, profession, education and ethnicity.
Integrity We are upright and dignified, expecting the same of others at home, in the workplace and the world at large. We subscribe to principles of ethics, dependability and justice, ever mindful that how we conduct ourselves reflects on our moral compass.
Transparency and Accountability We make decisions based on honest and open discussions and conduct our activities in a decent and forthright manner, allowing members access to FAAP records, answerable to our consciences for our actions and fully responsible for their consequences.
Hospitality We are welcoming to all who come in friendship to our door, sharing willingly of our repast and possessions. Our patience, musicality and unfailing sense of humor serve us well in all manner of social relationships.
The Three Pillars of FAAP
Charity The FAAP holds many events for fund-raising, as well as participates in year-round activities which benefit charities here in the US and in the Philippines. These include raising money for disaster relief programs, women's shelters, libraries, and hospitals, and helping out at local food banks, soup kitchens, and other various programs.
Culture The FAAP exposes its members and the public to the Filipino culture through participation in cultural events in the area and through its many activities which serve as the medium for experiencing the Filipino family. Its involvement with the Pittsburgh Folk Festival has been unbroken for almost fifty years. Its dance troupe performs in many area festivals, local hospitals, schools, historical Kennywood Park, and private events. Additionally, the FAAP has published three editions of its cookbook, "Cooking with the Filipinos of Pittsburgh, PA", which served as a fund-raiser and as an ambassador of goodwill from Pittsburgh.
Education The FAAP seeks to enhance the educational achievements of its members through a scholarship program named after its founder, Simplicio "Jan" Maramba. The Simplicio Maramba Scholarship Award honors the most outstanding Filipino American senior high school student who is active in the organization. The FAAP also participates in the Federal Executive Board's yearly Asian American Heritage Celebration and search for outstanding students. The FAAP 's future plans include the establishment of an organized Filipino School that will provide students with a deeper understanding of the Philippines through its language, history, geography, and culture.