Debra Boudreaux

The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation is a volunteer-based international non-governmental organization established by Dharma Master Cheng Yen in Hualien, Taiwan, in 1966. From 30 housewives saving 50 NT cents (approx. US 2 cents) from their grocery budget per day to help those in need, Tzu Chi’s footprints of humanitarian aid have now reached 102 countries and regions. The foundation provides community and social services, national and international disaster relief, medical and charitable assistance, education, environmental protection, and a bone marrow donor registry while promoting humanistic values and community volunteerism. Tzu Chi USA, the foundation’s first chapter outside Taiwan, was established in Alhambra, CA, in 1989. Stephen Huang, an American businessman, had visited Master Cheng Yen in Hualien, and meeting this gentle nun, who created a powerful organization and realized seemingly impossible dreams, all for the benefit of others, changed his life. He became a disciple and vowed to bring the spirit and mission of Tzu Chi to the United States. Today, Tzu Chi USA has 66 offices and facilities nationwide, with volunteers and donors striving to make a difference in their communities, serving others unconditionally, and sowing seeds of love and kindness in the Americas.