Our History
Rooted in Chinatown, reaching communities across Chicago.
A Movement Rooted in Community
What started as potluck dinners discussing ideas to help the community overcome social issues grew into an organization that has now changed the lives of tens of thousands of community members over the last 45 years.
1978–In a Chinatown dentist’s office, Bernie Wong and friends start helping neighbors with everyday challenges–translations, taxes, public aid.
1979–The grassroots effort becomes a registered nonprofit.
1980s–Demand soars. Services grow. One of Chinatown’s first daycares opens.
1988–Seniors move into the new Albert and Bernie Wong Senior Living Community–and become CASL’s strongest advocates.
2004–CASL builds a permanent home: the Kam L. Liu Building at 2141 South Tan Court, designed by award-winning architecture firm Studio Gang.
2021–Behavioral Health Services and the Anti-Hate Action Center launch.
2022–The first Change InSight report turns data into community action.
2023–Land secured for a second campus in Bridgeport-McKinley Park.
CASL’s Journey
From our start in a dentist’s office to the Kam L. Liu Building and soon our new Bridgeport campus, we’ve grown with our community every step of the way.