Noted for generosity towards needy children

The International Leadership Foundation (ILF) conferred its highest honor, the inaugural Organizational Award, on Dr James Chao and the Ruth Mulan Chu Chao Foundation at ILF's 16th Annual Awards Gala on Thursday in Washington. Angela Chao, deputy chairman of the Foremost Group, was honored with the Inspirational Leader Award.

Elaine L. Chao, the 24th US Secretary of Labor (2001-2009), the first Asian Pacific American woman to be appointed to the President's cabinet in American history, accepted the award on behalf of the Foundation and gave the keynote speech.

"In their giving, my parents wanted not only to help young people to cultivate the next generation of leaders but also lift the image of Chinese mainstream America and worldwide," Chao said.

"The tradition of philanthropy and volunteerism is carried on in the next generation. My sister, Angela Chao, has just established a generous scholarship fund specially targeted for Asian Americans at Harvard University," Chao said.

Dr. Chao, The Ruth Mulan Chu Chao Foundation, and Ms. Angela Chao are honored for the family's pioneering philanthropic leadership, leading the way in Asian-American philanthropy and helping other Asian Americans gain greater acceptance in mainstream America.

"We value and treasure our Chinese culture and heritage. My parents' core values of humility and modesty and empathy for others, optimism, determination, and perseverance are wonderful core values that lead to real happiness," Chao told China Daily.

"My parents never started out thinking about making money. They wanted to raise a good family, they wanted the company to be professional and reliable, and to serve and meet the needs of the customers, the charters. So the core values of the company are integrity, professionalism, and reliability. And that's why my father's company, I believe, is able to thrive for over 50 years," Chao said.

Chiling Tong, CEO and founding president of the ILF, said that the Chao family has set a "wonderful example for young people."

"We want the young people to look at what they have done for us," Tong said.

Liu Jingyang contributed to the story

leshuodong@chinadailyusa.com