Lancaster AAPI began with a group of Asian Americans searching for a larger community. Post-pandemic and 2021 Atlanta spa shootings, there was a need to amplify our voices, connect, and celebrate our contributions to the rich history of Lancaster County. What started with small lunch meet-ups around the city became potlucks of 50+ attendees to our 2023 Lunar New Year event held at Ewell Plaza on January 22. With an overwhelming public response, founding members of Lancaster AAPI realized this beyond us. The first Lunar New Year event was the catalyst for forming LAAPI as an official organization.