New Neighbor Initiative (NNI) advances the interests of minority communities, especially the Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) community, through strategic engagement, advocacy, and community development.
We work closely with Congress, federal and local government, and civil society organizations to communicate policy priorities that reflect the needs and perspectives of the communities we serve. We foster multistakeholder engagement, partnership, and cooperation to bridge institutions and communities, ensuring that voices are not only heard, but effectively represented in decision-making spaces.
At the community level, we build, support, and self-organize grassroots civic engagement. We work alongside community members to recognize both their influence and responsibility in shaping policy by voicing their legal and rightful interests. Through this approach, we strengthen civic participation and foster long-term, community-led leadership.
NNI places strong emphasis on thoughtful, evidence-based advocacy. To ensure our work is informed and impactful, we design and implement educational and mentorship programs that equip community members with the knowledge, skills, and networks needed to engage effectively.
Our goal is not only to advocate, but to build a community that can organize, lead, and thrive.
New Neighbor Initiative: Signature programs
Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year
Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year
Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year
New Neighbor Initiative has successfully organized the Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year celebration for three consecutive years, contributing to the broader annual Congressional Lunar New Year observance on Capitol Hill. As the first Mongolian community-led event on the Hill outside of an official Mongolian state visit, it marked a significant milestone in civic representation. The celebration brings together members of Congress, federal leaders, diplomats, and community stakeholders, elevating Mongolian heritage while strengthening visibility, relationships, and policy dialogue for the community.
Advocacy
Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year
Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year
We actively monitor legislation affecting minority communities, especially the AAPI community, and keeps our community informed. We engage and capture community interests, ensuring they are represented to legislators and other relevant stakeholders. Our advocacy includes organizing congressional briefings, such as for the Mongolia Third Neighbor Trade Act, to advance policies that reflect the priorities and needs of our community.
Civic Engagement
Community Engagement
Community Engagement
New Neighbor Initiative is dedicated to establishing a structured path for civic engagement for minority communities, with particular emphasis on the AAPI community. We facilitate opportunities for community members to engage directly with elected officials and federal and state government, enabling them to participate in decisions that impact their lives, hold institutions accountable, and contribute to the sustainable development and well-being of their communities. At its core, our work promotes active and responsible participation in both democratic processes and community life.
Community Engagement
Community Engagement
Community Engagement
New Neighbor Initiative fosters active community engagement through educational and mentorship programs for high school and university students. Our signature youth engagement initiative is volunteering for the annual Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year celebration. In this program, young Mongolian professionals mentor students while students take the lead as organizers, making key decisions and driving the event. Adults provide logistical support, allowing students to gain hands-on experience, develop leadership skills, and take ownership of meaningful community initiatives.
Capturing Our Mission: A Photo Story of New Neighbor Initiative
Inaugural Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year - 2024
Youth organizers of the Second Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year!
Online mentorship session for 2026 Congressional Mongolian Lunar Year volunteers! "Career in Technology" panel!
Youth organizers for The Third Congressional Mongolian Lunar New Year!
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