I am dismayed that the proposed state budget will eliminate critical human services that not only support our most vulnerable Illinoisans but also create a pathway for them -- as it did for me -- to becoming fully productive and contributing members of our state and nation.

Twenty-two years ago, my family and I immigrated to Chicago from Hong Kong to provide my children with better educational opportunities. Although I was excited to make a better life for my family, I felt lost as soon as my feet touched ground. I spoke little English and did not know how to find a job - how was I going to succeed?

We moved to Chinatown and friends and neighbors referred me to Chinese American Service League. A dedicated caseworker helped me to prepare a resume and provided one-to-one English lessons, equipping me with the tools I needed to land my first job at a construction company. My determination combined with CASL's continued service and mental support enabled me to work my way up to management level and then later started my own company

Sometimes I wonder: Where would I be if CASL had not existed? I would probably be working in a restaurant or factory, earning minimum wage and struggling to speak English. Instead, I now own a company that employs nearly 100 workers in ten locations serving a market base of over 500,000 people.

All of us, whether we are first or fourth generation Americans, must call on our legislators to support a budget that protects these essential service agencies that not only support the most vulnerable but most importantly, enables them to contribute and grow our country economically, culturally, and civically. This is a way for us to honor the previous generation's sacrifice and to ensure that a legacy of entrepreneurship, excellence, and civic participation is continued in this country.

-Francis Yip, co-founder and president, Richland; Chinese American Service League Board of Directors and Former Client