ROTARY LUNCHEON: John Wong — Strong Roots = Strong Family and Community

John Wong with Friends of Roots will explore how understanding our heritage can strengthen not only our families, but also our communities and global connections. Through a compelling blend of personal storytelling, historical insight, and practical application, John connects the Chinese American immigrant experience—particularly roots in Guangdong—to the core values of Rotary: service, fellowship, and international understanding.

John will share personal and participant stories from the Roots program. From there, he provides historical context, explaining why many Chinese American families trace their origins to Guangdong and highlighting the early migration to California during the “Gold Mountain” era. Next, John will introduce the Roots program, which helps participants uncover their family histories through U.S. based research and immersive travel experiences in Guangdong. Finally, he will share practical lessons for Rotarians, emphasizing how exploring one’s heritage can build empathy, deepen cultural awareness, and strengthen international fellowship. Attendees will be encouraged to reflect on their own roots and consider how personal history can inspire meaningful service and connection in their Rotary journey and beyond.

Born in Shanghai, China, to Taishan parents, John immigrated to the United States via Hong Kong at the age of 12. After arriving in San Francisco in 1963, he attended public schools and eventually graduated from San Francisco State University with a Bachelor’s degree in Mathematics. During his college years, John served as a youth leader with the Chinatown YMCA and later spent two years in the Teacher Corps while earning his teaching credential.

John’s professional career included eight years in the corporate sector followed by 28 years operating a chain of One Hour Photo shops. Since retiring in 2008, he has dedicated himself to volunteer leadership. He joined the Him Mark Lai Family History Project (Friends of Roots) in 2009 as a leader and coordinator for its Roots Plus program.

Register here for In Person or Zoom attendance.

For in-person attendees: We welcome all attendees! The in-person registration cost for all adults and children is $45 until 11:59 AM on Friday, May 8, 2026. The meeting cost increases to $60 at noon and beyond on May 8, 2026 and includes any walk-ins on Tuesday, May 12.

The Hotel Nikko holds us to the headcount that we submit on Friday at noon, prior to our Tuesday meeting, whether those registered attend or not. In Rotary spirit, thanks for helping us to maintain a good relationship with our host hotel. 

For attendance via Zoom: For those who wish to participate via Zoom, there is a $15 fee to attend.

Accessibility: Hotel Nikko San Francisco offers accessible entrances, accommodations, restaurants, meeting spaces, and facilities so that every guest enjoys a comfortable visit.

Parking: If you are driving to the Hotel Nikko for this meeting, please leave your car with the Hotel Nikko valet. Pick up a validation sticker available at our check-in table. The discounted parking is $25 for three hours.

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