Asian Services in Action: A Conversation with CEO Harry Kamdar

Leading with Compassion at Asian Services in Action

Immigration attorney Margaret Wong recently sat down with Harry Kamdar, the new CEO of Asian Services in Action (ASIA, Inc.), for a heartfelt and wide-ranging conversation. They discussed his journey, his vision, and the challenges facing immigrant-serving nonprofits today.

From Kenya to Ohio: A Personal Journey

Harry’s story begins in Kenya, where he was born to Indian parents. His father, seeking a better future, took a cargo ship from Karachi to Africa—an uncertain voyage that marked a new chapter for their family.

Years later, after a six-year immigration process, the Kamdars moved to the United States, settling in Columbus, Ohio.

Life wasn’t easy. Harry recalls growing up on ketchup sandwiches and expired tortilla chips—and feeling like he didn’t belong.

“The white kids didn’t want to play with me, the Black kids didn’t want to play with me, and I didn’t have any friends,” he shared.

Yet those early struggles shaped his values.

“I didn’t want to live in a ‘woe is me’ mode. I wanted to figure out how to help those less fortunate than me.”

A Career Built on Service

That mindset guided Harry’s path through juvenile corrections, public health, and oral health—fields where he could support the vulnerable. Today, he brings that same focus to ASIA, Inc.

With more than 100 employees and a $7 million budget, the nonprofit offers a wide range of services: primary health care, after-school programs, immigration legal support, senior centers, and help for survivors of domestic violence and trafficking.

Challenges Ahead

Despite its impact, ASIA faces serious hurdles. Federal and state budget cuts are tightening resources. Kamdar projects a $700,000 deficit this fiscal year.

In response, he has put a hiring freeze in place, introduced cost-cutting measures, and streamlined operations. He’s also seeking stronger partnerships with community leaders, local governments, and philanthropic foundations.

Looking Forward: An Expansive Vision

Kamdar’s goals are ambitious. He hopes to expand ASIA beyond Northeast Ohio and build comprehensive service hubs that include dental, vision, behavioral health, and pharmacy care.

He also envisions assisted living centers for Asian American seniors—spaces where culturally relevant food and care can help ease isolation and depression.

For Kamdar, this is more than a job.

“Being a son of immigrants, I understand what people are going through. This is a call to serve, to give back.”

Honoring the Past, Building the Future

During their conversation, Margaret Wong reflected on her early days with ASIA’s founder, May Chen, when the organization was little more than a dream. Seeing what ASIA has become fills her with pride.

But Kamdar is quick to remind us: the work is far from over.

From tackling mental health challenges among Asian youth, to creating safe spaces for immigrant women, to pushing for policies that support—rather than stigmatize—refugees, his leadership remains rooted in compassion and action.

As he put it:

“This nation was built by immigrants and refugees. We need to rediscover kindness and compassion—and never forget that we are all better when we lift each other up.”

At Margaret W. Wong & Associates, we are proud to support organizations like ASIA that share our mission of empowering immigrant communities. If you have questions about immigration law, visas, or green cards, contact us today. Our experienced team is here to help you navigate the process with confidence.