The Community Services Center celebrated a major milestone with its annual gala and 40th anniversary celebration, Tropical Nights, Community Lights, on November 14, 2025. The evening brought together longtime supporters, new friends, partners, and volunteers to honor four decades of service to the international community in Taiwan, while also recognizing a year of meaningful growth and transformation.
Honoring the Past While Building the Future
For 40 years, the Community Services Center has supported individuals and families navigating life in Taiwan. From mental health counseling services to community programs and educational workshops, the Center has continually evolved to meet the changing needs of the international community.
This year’s celebration placed a special emphasis on the transformation that has taken place over the past year under the leadership of Executive Director Cammi Chih. Over the course of the year, the Center strengthened its operations, expanded its services, and laid a stronger foundation for long-term sustainability. The gala served as a moment to reflect on progress made and reaffirm a shared commitment to what lies ahead.
A Modern, Digital Auction Experience
This year’s gala stood out as a fully digitized experience. Guests accessed a dedicated gala app to explore a diverse selection of silent auction items and participate throughout the evening. For decades, the live and silent auction has been a defining feature of the Center’s annual gala. This year’s transition to a fully digitized format marked a meaningful evolution of that tradition.
From bidding and tracking activity in real time to exploring items on their phones, the platform made the auction process smooth, efficient, and accessible. The digital system enhanced engagement and allowed guests to enjoy the evening without interruption.
The gala app was powered by Asia Vista, whose technology support helped create a seamless and connected experience for all attendees.
A Night to Remember
The heart of the evening came during the Open Ask segment, when the community gathered in a powerful moment of generosity and solidarity. Guests came together to support the Center’s mission, raising funds that will directly impact programs and services. The atmosphere in the room was one of shared purpose and deep connection.
The celebrations continued with an energetic program of live music and dance performances, featuring group showcases by the Taipei American School Upper School Jazz Ensemble, a performance of a Tahitian traditional dance known as Ori Tahiti, and Hālau Hula Kauluokalā Taiwan. The night was filled with rhythm, movement, and joy.
One of the most memorable moments came when guests were invited to join a surprise group flash mob. Confusion turned into dancing as the entire room rose to celebrate together, capturing the spirit of community in the most joyful way.
See our full performance lineup and credits here.
Looking Ahead with Purpose
As the Center looks ahead, it does so with clarity and confidence. The transformation of the past year, combined with the support of the community, signals a future filled with dedication to mental health services, community programs, and inclusive support systems for individuals and families across Taiwan.
The Community Services Center extends its sincere thanks to everyone who made Tropical Nights, Community Lights possible. Your generosity, belief, and participation continue to shape the Center’s story.
Thank you for celebrating with us and for walking alongside us as we build the future together.
View and Download All Event Photos
View and download general event photos here
View Momentos photobooth photos here
View and download 360° photobooth photos here
Thank you to all staff and volunteers who contributed to our 2025 Gala!
See our full gala 2025 organizing team here
Thank you to our 2025 Gala Donors & Sponsors!
Cherry Hill Antiques 行古行
Sahar Shaikh
Little Moments Porcelain Painting 小蒔光瓷盤彩繪
Kuma Ko
Liao, Huo-Huang 廖火煌
Chen, Ju-Yi, 陳儒毅
Dr. Jessica Lott
Charley Lin
Kate Chetabut
Gao Guo-zhi 高國誌
Jitao
Qiu Xiao-ling 邱小玲
Pallavi Saxena
Hellen Söderberg
Kristi Thornbury
Shan Shan 姍姍
Being the world’s largest airline carrier, United takes pride in its prestigious position. With extensive global routes from major U.S. hubs including San Francisco, Chicago, Denver, Houston, Los Angeles, New York/Newark, and Washington, D.C., United brings back beloved destinations and introduces exciting new ones.
United in Taiwan operates 3 routes in the service, including Taipei – San Francisco (2x daily), Taipei – Guam (2x weekly), and Kaohsiung – Tokyo Narita (1x daily), connecting Taiwan to the USA and even more destinations around the world!