A New Year's Celebration to Remember

Blessed at the WatLao Xokexayyaram Buddhist Temple

By Morgan Wynkoop, Marketing & Development Assistant

At Community Care Alliance outreach is not just about setting up a table—it's about building meaningful relationships. Our presence in the community reflects a commitment to show up, make a difference, and support our neighbors in authentic and respectful ways. 

This year, we had the honor of participating in the Lao New Year Festival at WatLao Xokexayyaram Buddhist Temple in Woonsocket on May 3rd & 4th.  On a beautiful and sunny day everyone truly enjoyed this New Year’s Celebration. Hosted in the back of the temple, we were welcomed and got to see many vendors selling foods, clothing, and jewelry. It is clear that everyone came to celebrate and enjoy all that the weekend had in store. 

The festival began with monk’s prayers in the morning. After their meal of the day, one of the monks came around to each table to bless us. Our very own Community Care Alliance Team had the opportunity to get blessed by the Head Monk and respectfully follow the customs. 

Later in the day there was also a “Money Tree” Parade followed by a celebration full of laughter, food, and conversations that lasted well into the evening.  It was a beautiful celebration, and those that worked the table truly felt proud and grateful to be part of the community’s tradition. Felicity Dyer, our CCBHC Behavorial Health Liaison stated, “To be welcomed so warmly and immersed in such a rich, beautiful culture was truly unforgettable.” These connections, whether new or not, are significant to have. Dyer also states, “I'm especially excited to see this relationship grow.” 

The presence we hold in the community is about more than marketing the services and programs we provide. It is the willingness to participate in community gatherings and uplift those around us that gives us a connection.  

As an agency, we recognize the importance of respecting sacred and cultural spaces. The planning and conversations we had ahead of time were key in helping us provide clear, respectful, and culturally responsive information about our services. By being open to this new cultural experience, we felt a sense of joy, excitement, and connection to better serve our community. 

Happy Lao New Year from all of us at Community Care Alliance!  Huge thanks to Ben Lessing (CEO), Amm St. Onge, Felicity Dyer, Sandra Khamhaeng, Karen Rathbun, and Morgan Wynkoop (Staff Members) for your collaborative efforts and care!