Volunteer Spotlight: Commissioner Vanita Louie
At Gum Moon Women’s Residence and Asian Women’s Resource Center, volunteers and community leaders are at the heart of our mission. Their dedication not only uplifts women and families in crisis but also inspires others to give, ensuring our programs can continue for generations to come.
In this Volunteer Spotlight, we are honored to share the story of Commissioner Vanita Louie, a long-time advocate, community leader, and supporter whose commitment to Gum Moon reflects the very spirit of compassion and resilience that defines our work.
What first inspired you to volunteer with Gum Moon, and what keeps you motivated to stay involved?
“I chose to volunteer to support Gum Moon Women’s Residence because Gum Moon is a safe place for women who are suffering from domestic violence or unhealthy living situations. They can seek help, shelter, and resources. With nowhere else to turn, whether because of language barriers, lack of shelter, or financial hardship; Gum Moon provides guidance, safety, and belonging.
What keeps me motivated is knowing that Gum Moon has carried out this mission for 157 years, and it is still as relevant today as it was then.
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Inspiring Change Through Advocacy and Service
Austin Louie (left) with Puppy Nakita and Vanita Louie (right) standing in front ot Gum Moon mural, painted by Gum Moon’s after-school children program.
(mural sponsored by San Francisco Department of Early Childhood)
Can you share a moment or experience at Gum Moon that was especially meaningful to you?
“When a woman walks through the golden doors of Gum Moon, she often arrives full of fear and intimidation, physically and mentally. Over time, I’ve been blessed to watch them transform.
Whether it was a seasonal craft project, decorating a Christmas tree, or shopping at our volunteer women’s boutique, I saw women gradually rebuild their self-esteem. Like flowers that are watered and cared for, they blossomed.
One told me she learned a vocational skill at City College. Another shared she had been accepted into nursing school. And another found full-time work in the banking industry. These moments of resilience and growth have been the most inspiring part of my time with Gum Moon.
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Why do you believe it’s important for the community to support Gum Moon through volunteering or fundraising?
“The needs and resources provided by Gum Moon Women’s Residence and the Asian Women’s Resource Center’s parent-child programs cannot survive without financial support from donors.
To house and assist residents with resources to get on their feet takes both time and money. With looming city, state, and federal cuts, community support is more critical than ever.
If you are so inclined, please consider making a donation today. Every gift—large or small—helps ensure Gum Moon will be here for another 157 years.
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About Commissioner Vanita Louie
Commissioner Vanita Louie is currently serving her second term on the San Francisco Recreation and Park Commission, reappointed by Mayor Daniel Lurie. A native San Franciscan with deep roots in Chinatown, she brings an equity-focused and community-driven approach to her leadership.
Vanita also serves on the San Francisco Bay Area Hep B Free Governance Council and the Japantown Community Benefit District board, and is a past president and active member of the Rotary Club of San Francisco Chinatown. She has championed causes ranging from public health to cultural preservation, all while supporting humanitarian projects locally and globally.
Her connection to San Francisco’s park system runs deep—growing up attending programs at Chinese Recreation Center, enrolling her daughters in Rec & Park summer camps, and today staying active in aqua fitness, yoga, and pickleball.
Beyond civic leadership, Vanita had a successful career in the travel industry, always guided by values of diversity, equity, and inclusion. She lives in Anza Vista with her husband Austin and their dog Nakita, and holds a B.A. in Business Administration from San Francisco State University.
Vanita Louie, Puppy Nakita, and Austin Louie
✨ Commissioner Vanita Louie’s story shows the ripple effect of compassion, service, and advocacy. By giving to Gum Moon, you too can help women and families find safety, belonging, and hope for the future.