Hyundai donates $10,000 to LA Public Library to support AAPI Heritage Month

Hyundai Motor America has donated $10,000 to the Los Angeles Public Library (LAPL) to mark Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) Heritage Month. The announcement was made on May 7, as part of the company’s broader efforts to enhance cultural inclusivity and community engagement in Southern California.

The donation was presented to the Library Foundation of Los Angeles (LFLA) and will be used to expand the International Languages Department collection with more books focused on Asian cultures and languages. The funding will also support cultural programming at LAPL throughout May.

“Los Angeles is home to the largest AAPI population in the continental U.S.,” said John Szabo, director of the Los Angeles Public Library. “We thank Hyundai for supporting our city’s multicultural educational resources during this important month.”

Brandon Ramirez, director of corporate social responsibility at Hyundai Motor America, emphasized the company’s commitment to more than just providing books. “We’re proud to support the AAPI community as a Korean company,” Ramirez said. “Education and culture play a vital role in building stronger communities, and we’ll continue to invest in programs that help residents connect with their heritage.”

Eric Thomas, director of multicultural marketing at Hyundai, added, “Hyundai has always grown as an innovation-driven, community-oriented brand. This partnership is a meaningful opportunity to honor AAPI cultural heritage and build closer connections with local families and customers.”

LAPL to Host Asian Cultural Events in May

Thanks to Hyundai’s support, LAPL will host a variety of Asian cultural events throughout May. Highlights include the “AAPI Joy” festival on May 17, featuring author talks, Korean traditional performances, and Taiwanese pastry workshops. Attendees will also receive free books and commemorative tote bags. Hyundai will further promote AAPI Heritage Month through LAPL’s social media and newsletters.

Hyundai’s Broader CSR Programs Continue Nationwide

Beyond its cultural initiatives, Hyundai Motor America maintains a longstanding commitment to corporate social responsibility (CSR) across sectors such as disaster relief, healthcare, and youth education.

Through its nonprofit arm, Hyundai Hope On Wheels (HHOW)—operated in partnership with Hyundai dealerships nationwide—the company has supported pediatric cancer research and awareness since 1998. To date, HHOW has funded 1,300 projects at 175 institutions, totaling approximately $277 million.

In Southern California, Hyundai donated $15,000 to the Anaheim Boys & Girls Club in March 2024 and $200,000 to the Children’s Hospital of Orange County in July 2023 to support pediatric cancer research and care. Additionally, in January 2024, the company contributed to wildfire relief efforts in Los Angeles and has been active in other disaster recovery efforts, including hurricane relief in Florida.

BY HOONSIK WOO [woo.hoonsik@koreadaily.com]