Community Hopes New Vietnamese Center Brings Positive Change

SACRAMENTO (CBS13) - South Sacramento is celebrating a new Vietnamese community center and hoping it brings changes for the better.

Tim Do is watching his dream come true with the completion of a Vietnamese community center that was just an idea he was trying to see through three years ago.

"This has been years in the making. It has taken extended time, community members, leadership and funding to get it built," said Assemblyman Roger Dickinson.

It took a year to get approval from the city council, but finally had its grand opening Saturday.

"They have become such an important part of our community. We reflected that when we established Little Saigon. This will be remarkable for all kinds of events," said Dickinson.

The hall is big enough for 800 people, and boasts a library and entertainment center for everyone. More importantly, the center is bridging the gap between generations and cultures.

"It provides a place to learn about the heritage and culture of the Vietnamese," said Dickinson.

In addition to education, the Vietnamese community is hopeful for change in the south Sacramento neighborhood.

"Something for the kids to keep them busy, to get them off the street," said Do.

With high crime and gang activity nearby, this new center could help give direction to those who need it.

"I think the more opportunities we create for young people to have safe places where people care about them helps combat the tendency to get into trouble," said Dickinson.

The community center is on Elder Creek Road and sits on two acres of land.