Embedded Files
Text "AIR" to (213) 449-5888 to connect with an AAPI peer about alcohol or substance use. Free & confidential. M–F, 11AM–7PM PST
Our Founder's Story
Our Founder's Story
As an Asian woman in recovery, I know how lonely it can feel to even start questioning your relationship with alcohol. I couldn’t turn to my family without feeling like I’d disappoint them, and when I did find support, I was often the only one in the room who looked like me.
As an Asian woman in recovery, I know how lonely it can feel to even start questioning your relationship with alcohol. I couldn’t turn to my family without feeling like I’d disappoint them, and when I did find support, I was often the only one in the room who looked like me.
Since the pandemic, substance use has risen in our community—but the number of us reaching out for help hasn’t. Many of us are still staying quiet, trying to figure it out on our own.
Now, as a substance use counselor, I see how little representation we have in recovery spaces—both in treatment and peer support. When we don’t show up, it reinforces the feeling that we don’t belong.
It also means we go unseen. And when we go unseen, our community continues to be overlooked for the resources and funding we need.
My hope is that through visibility and representation, we can begin to change that—creating space to step out of silence and into healing, connection, and hope.
-Pam Alexis Cox
OUR MISSION
OUR MISSION
To provide mentorship, education, and resources that empower the AAPI community to overcome substance use.
OUR VISION
OUR VISION
A future where everyone seeking recovery finds representation, empowerment, and culturally responsive care.
The Challenge
The Challenge
Substance use impacts millions of AAPI individuals and families across the U.S., yet cultural stigma and lack of representation keep many from seeking help.
45% affected with Asian flush
45% affected with Asian flush
Nearly half of Asians have this genetic condition, yet awareness of its dangers—including a significantly increased risk of cancer—remains low.
17% increase in substance use
17% increase in substance use
During the pandemic, substance misuse rose sharply in the AAPI community, highlighting the urgent need for culturally informed support.
25% under use of support
25% under use of support
AAPIs have the lowest help-seeking rate of any racial/ethnic group, due to stigma, language barriers, and a lack of culturally competent care.
Our Solution
Our Solution
We’re creating spaces where recovery feels relatable, resources are culturally informed, and every AAPI story matters.
Peer Support
Peer Support
Connecting AAPI individuals new to sobriety with peers in recovery who share lived experiences and offer guidance to navigate the cultural nuances of recovery.
Education & Events
Education & Events
Workshops, webinars, and events led by experts to provide tools and education for sobriety, tailored for the AAPI community and healthcare professionals.
Resource Center
Resource Center
Referring AAPI individuals to culturally appropriate treatment facilities, counselors, and other vetted resources to support their sobriety journey.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Meet Our Board of Directors
Together, we’re breaking stigma, increasing representation in sobriety, and fostering open conversations grounded in dignity and compassion.
Together, we’re breaking stigma, increasing representation in sobriety, and fostering open conversations grounded in dignity and compassion.
Beverly Narayan
Beverly Narayan
Strategic Leader & Legal Advisor
Strategic Leader & Legal Advisor
Bev Narayan brings a powerful blend of executive leadership and legal expertise to the Board. A JD from UC Law San Francisco underpins a career that includes serving as a Partner at a major firm and a Managing Attorney for Zurich North America, providing essential guidance on governance and compliance. As a proven leader, she defines strategies that transform efficiency and satisfaction metrics, helping AIR scale its initiatives and build the foundational structures required for lasting success.
Rachel Sandoval
Rachel Sandoval
Clinical Program Expert & Community Networker
Rachel Sandoval brings a vital combination of extensive frontline clinical experience and community insight to the Board. With five years as a Certified SUD Counselor (CADC-I) and a Master of Social Work (MSW) from California State University, Northridge (CSUN), she provides essential guidance on program efficacy and service integrity. Rachel’s work has built a robust industry network that offers direct, invaluable insight into the needs of diverse populations. She leverages her expertise to inform AIR’s service delivery and ensure its programs remain aligned with best practices in the field.
Be Part of Our Growing Community
Be Part of Our Growing Community
We’re building a movement where recovery and resilience can be openly shared in the AAPI community. Whether you’re seeking support, interested in getting involved, or simply want to learn more. We’d love to hear from you.
We’re building a movement where recovery and resilience can be openly shared in the AAPI community. Whether you’re seeking support, interested in getting involved, or simply want to learn more. We’d love to hear from you.
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