Hong Bao is NABEA’s annual Lunar New Year fundraiser, and an invitation for our community to invest in itself.
Rooted in traditions across East Asia, Hong Bao (红包)—red envelopes containing cash—are shared during the Lunar New Year as gestures of care, prosperity, and collective support. They symbolize not just good fortune, but the belief that we move forward together.
As we welcome the Year of the Fire Horse, a year associated with courage, momentum, and independence, we’re inviting our members, partners, and allies to help fuel the work that keeps NABEA strong, accessible, and growing.
From February 1–28, we’re raising $5,000 to sustain the programs and infrastructure that connect Black professionals and students across Asia-related fields, especially at a time when Black communities and international work are being deprioritized.
Every Hong Bao gift helps fuel this community moving forward.
Fuel the Loop
Our 2026 Goal
$5,000 by February 28, 2026
Suggested giving levels reflect both Lunar New Year symbolism and community accessibility:
$8 – A lucky number in Chinese culture; send a little luck our way.
$28 – A gesture of care and participation
$58 – Helping sustain ongoing programming
$88 – Supporting connection and collaboration
$158 – Investing in mentorship and leadership
$258+ – Fueling long-term stability for NABEA
Every gift, at every level, moves this work forward.
36 Donor Wall
“Love NABEA and the work you all do ❤️” — Chelsea Anglin
“🫶 sending support from the PNW!” — Loraine Castillo
“So proud and thankful to be a part of such an extraordinary organization!” — Lyndah Lovell
“Looking forward to volunteering more of my time and money in the year of the horse.” — Cameron Thomas-Shah
“Wishing Britt best of luck and success on her upcoming trip to Korea. You are a true difference maker!” — Jason Franczak
“Keep up the important work, Britt! Proud of you and what you’ve built. Best of luck on the upcoming move!” — Sarah Abdel-Motaleb
“NABEA forever! Holla if yall are ever in LA!” — Ashley Hayes
“I celebrate this organization! Thank you for your purpose and mission.” —robyn eason
“ I'm happy to support NABEA in meeting its goal. Keep up the amazing work you're doing in the community!” — Cheryl Eason
“Pleasure to assist with the 'cause'. Keep up the great collaboration!” — Colvin Eason
Where your donation goes
Language Training
Sustaining NABEA’s Japanese, Chinese, and Korean language groups, with Vietnamese and Bahasa groups launching in 2026.
Member-Led Programming
Professional meetups in Tokyo, Shanghai, Taipei, Seoul, New York, Washington, D.C., and Atlanta, alongside public programming that fosters connection, learning, and stronger Black–Asia relations across the Pacific.
Community Infrastructure
Sustaining the tools and coordination that keep NABEA accessible and member-driven—including our newsletters and Database of Black Asia Experts, which supports visibility, connection, and opportunity across Asia-related fields.
Mentorship Programs
Supporting Black students and early-career professionals navigating Asia-focused academic and professional paths.
Thank You!
Hong Bao is more than a fundraiser. It’s a moment to pause, reflect, and recommit to sustaining Black leadership in Asia-focused spaces, together.
Thank you for being part of this community, and for helping fuel the fire into the year ahead.
GiveGiving FAQs
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Lunar New Year is a time of renewal, generosity, and shared prosperity. Hong Bao reflects those values while grounding our fundraising in cultural respect and collective investment in community.
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Funds raised through Hong Bao 2026 will support NABEA’s core programs and infrastructure throughout the year, including mentorship, community programming, communications, and the behind-the-scenes work that keeps our network active and accessible.
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Yes. NABEA is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Donations are tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law.
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Yes. You are welcome to dedicate your Hong Bao in honor or memory of a person, mentor, or community that has shaped you. You’ll have the option to include a tribute when you donate.
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Yes. You may choose to make your Hong Bao a one-time gift or set up a recurring contribution if that works better for you.
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If you’re interested in alternative ways to give or have questions about larger contributions, please reach out to the NABEA team.
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Yes. If you need to adjust or cancel a recurring donation, you can do so at any time or contact us for assistance.
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We’ll share a post-campaign update outlining how Hong Bao funds will support NABEA’s work throughout 2026. Donors will also continue to receive community updates through our newsletter.
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If you have questions about Hong Bao 2026 or your donation, please contact the NABEA team directly—we’re happy to help.