World Taiwan Benevolent Association Sets Up New Branch in Cupertino

With its large population of Taiwanese immigrants, Cupertino is a natural choice of location for the American West Coast branch of the World Taiwan Benevolent Association (WTBA), a nonprofit dedicated to promoting global interest in Taiwan.

One more reason for choosing Cupertino is that the current president of the global nonprofit, Wendy Wu, and the director of the new branch, Morris Wu, are a married couple living in the city.

The Wus quoted the WTBA mission statement as "loving Taiwan; broadening world view; serving Taiwanese immigrants; befriending global residents."

In concrete terms, Morris said, "We will promote Taiwan's tourism, medical services and cultural festivals all over the world."

He added that the WTBA organizes events such as day trips and seminars for everyone interested in Taiwan, including those not born in Taiwan but willing to learn about the island. The event charges are minimal, and there is no membership fee.

Founded in 2001, the WTBA established branches in England, France, Belgium, Switzerland, Italy, Australia, New Zealand, Japan, Hong Kong, Macau, Brazil, Paraguay, eastern Canada (in Ontario), and the East Coast of America (in Washington, DC) before the West Coast branch in Cupertino, according to the Wus.

Wendy said the WTBA usually sets up one branch per country, but in large countries like the US and Canada, there are regional offices.

"Now the only continent without our presence is Africa," said Wendy. "We are going to make it there soon. We'll also try to open more branches in Asia and Europe. I'm going to Southest Asia in April and to Europe in June."

The WTBA welcomes volunteers to help out with event planning, but those who wish to join the board will go through evaluations. For inquiries, contact either Wendy or Morris Wu by emailing morewin@sbcglobal.net.