Rekindling relations

Immigrant associations all across the country are losing members as they age -- and younger people are not joining. This is an excellent way for these young people to learn about their culture and appreciate the sacrifices the older generation made for them to have a life here. - - Donna Poisl

Aging immigrant associations seek an infusion of youth

By Maria Sacchetti, Globe Staff

The old men climb a narrow staircase in Chinatown to a room filled with smoky incense, stacks of Chinese-language newspapers, and a shrine holding offerings of wine and cups of tea. For nearly a century the group has offered a gathering place for lonely immigrants, who banded together to help one another make it in America.

The Gee How Oak Tin Association of New England was their family when the US government barred them from bringing relatives from China. It helped them find jobs, rent apartments, and raise children who speak flawless English and go to college.

Now, the organization is looking to those very children for its survival.
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