Filipinos have been part of American history since 1587, contributing as military members, workers, professionals, and more. The Filipino American Northwest Association, founded in 2018 by Jacqueline Babol, is a non-profit serving Spokane, Coeur d'Alene, and surrounding areas.
FANA envisions a resilient and inclusive community where food security, cultural pride, and thriving small businesses create opportunity, belonging, and global connection for all generations.
The Filipino American Northwest Association (FANA) builds a compassionate and resilient community by advancing food security, health and wellness, business resiliency, and Filipino arts and culture. Through accessible programs, entrepreneurial support, and cross-cultural partnerships—including our developing Friendship City relationship with Malay, Aklan—we strengthen community identity, economic opportunity, and global connection for all generations.

We center our work on the needs and strengths of our community, striving to eliminate hunger, reduce barriers to wellness, and ensure every individual has the opportunity to thrive through culturally relevant support and services.
Join our team of dedicated volunteers and make a positive impact in your community. Whether you have a few hours or a few days to spare, we have a role for you.
We believe that true wellness encompasses physical, mental, emotional, and cultural health.
We celebrate diversity and create spaces where all people—regardless of background—feel seen, heard, and valued.
Through our sister city relationship with Aklan, Philippines, we promote international exchange and shared learning.
We uphold transparency, fiscal responsibility, and a deep sense of purpose in all that we do.

Veronica Bropas was born and raised in Cebu City, Philippines, and migrated to the USA in 1989. She has been in the medical field for 20 yrs. and currently works at Inland Northwest Behavioral Health. She completed her pre nursing coursework in 2021-22 with plans to continue with her nursing
Degree in the future.
Her passion for helping others has led her to volunteer with numerous community organizations, including the Certified Emergency Response Team and Medical Response Team. Notably, she volunteered with FEMA in 2005 to assist displaced individuals in Florida following Hurricane Katrina.
Veronica has also volunteered with the American Heart Association and various community organizations.
In her professional capacity, Veronica has chaired Eastern State Hospital's Safety and Security Team and served as a member of the Inclusive and Diversity Team, guided by her Christian faith and commitment to fairness and equality.
Outside of work, Veronica enjoys outdoor activities, creative hobbies, and cultural pursuits, including hiking, gardening, crocheting, and cooking. She is also actively involved with the Filipino American Northwest Association, embracing her Filipino heritage through folk dances and singing.

She currently lives in Coeur D'alene with her beloved husband Luke who has been supportive of her passion/s; teaching children and serving others. She graduated with a Registered Nursing degree in the Philippines and is currently taking steps to get her licensure while working as a caregiver. Her ideas and place in our board has been invaluable.

Gay is a retired Registered Nurse and have lived in Hayden Idaho having moved from California. Her passion in community service led her to be an active volunteer in church, and 2 other organizations in Coeur d’alene Idaho. She also has been a member of the Blazen Divas dance group of Coeur D’alene IDaho and has traveled with them. Her
Gay is a retired Registered Nurse and have lived in Hayden Idaho having moved from California. Her passion in community service led her to be an active volunteer in church, and 2 other organizations in Coeur d’alene Idaho. She also has been a member of the Blazen Divas dance group of Coeur D’alene IDaho and has traveled with them. Her great communication skills that show the epitome of Filipino hospitality remains to be an asset in this organization.


Jacqueline M. Babol, Executive Director, is a Board Certified Podiatrist with 34 years of experience and a deep passion for community service. She holds a Bachelor's degree in Medical Technology with a minor in Fashion Design and completed her medical education in Chicago, where she volunteered at Barishnikov’s Ballet Studio, fostering her love for the arts.
Jacqueline has served as an Art Director in her church for 10 years, where she used her skills as an advanced seamstress and community organizer. She is also a licensed Zumba Instructor and Certified Group Fitness Instructor since 2013 and an American Red Cross Instructor for CPR and First Aid since 2010. A long-time enthusiast of Philippine folk dancing, she studied at the Philippine Women’s University, home of the Bayanihan Folk Dancers.
Currently, Jacqueline is also a Board Commissioner for the Spokane Housing Authority and a Board Member for Aging and Long Term Care of Eastern Washington. Her goal in founding this nonprofit is to combine her love for community service with her passion for the arts.
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