Celebrating 25 Years with Ave

When Avemaia I. A’asa, Jr. joined Pacific Gateway Center as an intern 25 years ago, he could hardly have known how many roles he would take on—or how many lives he would touch. Originally from American Samoa, he joined the staff full time in the Employment Core Services Program (ECS) after completing his internship. Today, he is PGC’s Culinary Business Incubator program manager and oversees the logistical aspects of its 12 kitchens.

Having been part of PGC through so many changes, Ave holds a wealth of its history and personal stories. One memory he especially treasures comes from around 2003, when he taught basic computer skills, including Microsoft Office, to low-income residents, immigrants, and youth who were seeking better employment or facing other challenges.

During the holidays, PGC’s Immigrant Youth Program (IYP) hosted a Thanksgiving luncheon for its participants. Staff also chaperoned them on a trip to Pearlridge to choose items they wanted for Christmas and treated them to the movies. Afterward, staff brought them home, including to the parks where some were living.

Ave credits PGC with helping him learn how to connect with the community. Like many of his colleagues across PGC—from the kitchens to the farm—he brings skills that reach well beyond his job description. Inspired in part by his architect father, Ave is one of PGC’s “MacGyvers”: someone who can figure out how to get things done with what's available.

Ave also recognized longtime colleagues Than H. Aye, Resettlement Coordinator, and Richard Tangonan, Maintenance Supervisor, each of whom has served PGC for more than 20 years. Together, they carry decades of experience, community relationships, and shared history that continue to enrich PGC’s work.

Mahalo, Ave, for the knowledge, care, and resourcefulness you have shared with PGC, our clients, and our community for 25 years.

Have a favorite memory or story about Ave? We’d love to hear it. 

Email us at development@pacificgatewaycenter.org.