Steven Chen

Steven Chen immigrated to the United States from China in 1987. After earning his master's degree from California State University, Los Angeles, he built a career in the information technology industry, managing computer infrastructure and technology operations for major corporations.

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Outside of his professional career, Steven has maintained a longstanding commitment to community service and civic engagement. In Orange County, he served on the Sierra Club Political Committee and the City of Irvine's Green Ribbon Environmental Committee; he has also been actively involved with a variety of Chinese American community organizations. Through community service, writing, and advocacy, he has worked to promote greater understanding of Chinese American history and culture, strengthen immigrant communities, and connect people from different backgrounds.

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Steven later brought his technology, management, and community building experience to the mental health field. As Deputy Director of the Mental Health Association for Chinese Communities (MHACC), he oversaw the organization's daily operations, including technology infrastructure, grant development and implementation, and program operations. He also led a team that developed a professionally managed trilingual mental health warmline with approximately 30 trained operators, providing emotional support and resources to callers across the United States, including veterans.

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In early 2026, Steven founded Kindness Network, a nonprofit organization with a mission to mobilize the whole community to improve mental well-being. Through Kindness Network, he works to connect individuals with trusted resources, strengthen collaboration among nonprofit and community organizations, and expand access to mental health, wellness, and community-based support.

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Steven's involvement with NOAAV grew from his strong interest in the history of Chinese American veterans. As Steven learned more about the experiences of veterans, he recognized that those who have served our country can face unique challenges involving mental health, social connection, aging, family relationships, and the transition to civilian life.

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At NOAAV, Steven leads the organization's efforts to strengthen mental health and wellness support for veterans. Drawing upon his experience in mental health programs, nonprofit management, technology, and community collaboration, he seeks to build partnerships with mental health providers, veteran organizations, nonprofits, government agencies, and community leaders so that veterans and their families can more easily connect with the support and resources they need.

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Steven believes that honoring veterans means not only recognizing their service and preserving their history, but also standing with them and supporting their well-being throughout their lives.