Frequently Asked Questions

What are Chinese family associations?

Initially, these associations were mainly established according to family surnames (i.e., Eng, Wong, Fong, Lee) to serve the social and personal needs of Chinese immigrant community. They helped newcomers settle in American cities, such as Los Angeles, New York and San Francisco, by providing financial and social support, largely in the face of discriminatory practices and policies of the past two centuries. Eventually, as racial integration progressed and harsh immigrant legislation eased, these groups evolved into purely social platforms, providing activities for the Chinese senior constituency such as annual banquets and multi-chapter conferences.

What is the origin of the Eng Family Benevolent Association?

The Eng Family Benevolent Association was organized for the mutual benefits of the members of the Eng Family, particularly new immigrants during the last century. It is an organization for its members to bond, support, socialize, learn from each other's experiences, and perpetuate the Eng Family identity by continuing the customs and traditions of the old country. The Association also encourages, promotes and fosters activities and interests that will aid, assist and benefit the public at large and cooperate with other organizations and agencies having similar purposes and objectives.

Where do the Engs originate in China?

The history of the Eng family dates back to the 400 BC in the Chu Kingdom, present day Hunan and Hubei province of China. At the time, Tom, a confidant of the king, was rewarded a large land grant in an area called Ng for his loyalty and valued advice. Tom and his relatives settled in the area and adopted the family of Ng. Since Ng Tom, the Ng family had flourished for 76 generations.

Is there an international headquarters for the Eng Family Benevolent Association?

Yes, the World Eng organization is loosely tied in with the U.S. chapters. It was officially established in 1980 in Hong Kong to promote closer ties with fellow Engs throughout the world. Its office is located at 191-193 Johnston Road, 4th Floor, Blk. A, Wanchai, Hong Kong. Phone: 5-724010

Is there a national headquarters for Eng Family Benevolent Association chapters?

The San Francisco Chapter was established in 1907 and was declared headquarters for the National Eng Family Benevolent Association nationwide during the first National Eng Convention held in San Francisco in 1948. Its office is located at 53 Waverly Place, San Francisco, CA 94108. Phone: (415) 362-6732.

Where is the Eng Family Benevolent Association's Los Angeles Chapter headquarters located?

The office/community center of the L.A. Chapter is located off North Broadway, on the North end of Chinatown at 418 Cottage Home, Los Angeles CA 90012. Phone: (323) 227-8265.

Do the national and world organizations have an opportunity to gathering and discuss issues?

The National and World Eng associations hold their conventions once every four years to promote fellowship, to renew or generate new kinship, and to network among members. The National and the World associations have their conventions in alternate years.

What are the annual membership dues?

Annual membership fees vary from $5 to $10, depending on each chapter's regulations. Membership benefits grants the eligibility to vote in the association's affairs and participate in its activities. The annual membership fee for the L.A. Chapter is $10 per person, but which could be waived for members who have contributed to the "Building Fund".

What are the requirements of membership?

The original intent of the family association was to provide a community, therefore only those either born or married into an Eng could be eligible to become members. Ng is the Cantonese pronunciation of the family name. In Mandarin, the name is Wu. Since Ng has no vowel, many had change the spelling to either Eng or Ing. To become a member of the Eng Family Benevolent Association, your surname must be symbolized by the Chinese Character as seen in the section header at the top of this page. Also, in accordance to the By-laws, members have to be at least 18 years of age.

What is the tax-exempt status of the Association?

When the original articles of incorporation for the Eng Family Benevolent Association of Los Angeles was first submitted in 1973, its tax-exempt status was designated under section 501(c)(7) which is applies to "Social and Recreational Clubs". And as such, donations to the Association are not tax deductible.

The political, economic and social life for Asians in the U.S. has vastly progressed to where the association's original intent seems to have no relevancy today? What benefit would I derive from joining the association?

It's true that the original objectives were to help new Eng immigrants become established in the U.S., and to aid family members in civic integration and public affairs. The association's objectives have been amended over time as community demands and needs changed. Today the association exists predominantly as a social organization: perpetuate the teachings of our ancestors, preserve and celebrate the Family's history and achievements, foster strong fraternalism among Engs here and abroad.

What is the Goal of the NG (Next Generation) Group?

The creation of the NG Group was facilitated by current and past officers of the Los Angeles Chapter of the Eng Association to help attract "younger" Engs to become involved with the organization. Its mandate is to develop philanthropic as well as social activities that will generate interest of many of the second- and third-generation Chinese Americans. A significant part of its mandate is to ensure the continuation of the Association as a viable center of congregation for a community united by ethnicity, surname and a common civic purpose.

How can non-family members partake in association activities?

Non-family members are welcome as guests of family members to various social gatherings. They also are welcome to serve as volunteers, but they cannot become members of the association.

How can I get more information about the NG Group's activities? How can I become involved?

Committees are forming to evaluate the various interests of pursuit. Contact the chapter for more information. Please visit www.storyzoo.net/laeng/ for more information.