Van Horn Dodge Donates a Van to the Sheboygan Hmong Association

Van Horn Dodge recently donated a 2008 Town and Country van to the Hmong Association of Sheboygan. The Hmong Mutual Assistance Association of Sheboygan, Inc. (HMAAS) is a non-profit Organization founded by the Hmong Community of Sheboygan and was legally incorporated in the State of Wisconsin in November, 1980. HMAAS’ primary mission at the present time is to assist the Southeast Asian Refugees in their resettlement process in Sheboygan County, and to promote opportunities that will enable refugee families to become self-sufficient and active as contributing citizens in the communities.

One of their programs provides a place for Hmong elderly to come together on a weekly basis to learn English, citizenship, and daily living skills. Currently, there are about 25-35 elderly persons participating in this program on a regular basis. Due to cultural barriers and the lack of English speaking skills, many of these elderly persons cannot function normally in the community without the assistance from the Hmong Association. This program also helps those elderly who live alone feel less isolated.

One of the barriers is transportation as most of these elderly cannot drive and have no transportation. Currently, they are relying on friends and relatives for rides to the center. With their own vans, the Hmong Association can ensure that these people will get to the center regularly and consistently participate in weekly activities without the frustration of trying to call people to pick them up. This enhances the program and will hopefully attract more people to join in!

With help from Van Horn Dodge, in a partnership effort, the Hmong Association is able to accomplish this task of providing reliable transportation to our elderly population. Together we will continue to make Sheboygan County a good place to live and raise families! You can visit their website at www.hmaaweb.org for more information about the Hmong Association and their programs!