Sarun S. Chan,
Executive Director
sarun@cagp.org | 267.388.0502 (txt/call)

"If you have the power to choose to not overwork yourself, then choose not to. At the end of the day, accept and embrace the fact that you are not the answer and resolution to each and every problem that comes your way. You are a puzzle piece and you bring your puzzle piece to the table -- everyone else involved has to do their best and bring their puzzle piece to the work. Take a breather, go tend to your needs. The greatest gain to not overwork yourself is the time, memories, and bonds you build with those waiting to see, be, and embrace all of you and not just some of you." ~ Sarun S. Chan

Sarun's Story

Sarun Chan is the Executive Director at the Cambodian Association of Greater Philadelphia. Sarun was born in a refugee camp in Thailand during the aftermath of the Cambodian genocide led by the Khmer Rouge regime. Raised in low-income neighborhoods throughout South Philadelphia, Sarun has an innate reflective nature on the American, immigrant, and refugee experience.

Sarun is a former child laborer working in agriculture and packing factories since the age of nine. In his adult professional career, he has worked in various community based organizations and large nonprofits for nearly two decades. Sarun has directed social service initiatives, cultivated community building, developed intergenerational and intercultural programs, and advocacy on various social issues and disparities including education, health, and community development.

From witnessing, experiencing, and living his life in poverty stricken neighborhoods, it has inspired Sarun to further his life’s work to help bring visibility to the under-represented and bridge resource gaps to improve the quality of life for the underserved. Serving diverse communities has enriched Sarun's spirit as an individual and he continues to grow and translate these experiences to make an impact in our homes, community, and environment.