Mission & Values
Our Mission
To promote widespread awareness and appreciation of Peru’s rich cultural heritage through art, music, and cuisine.
Our Values
- Service – We are dedicated to serving our community with compassion and commitment.
- Truthfulness – We uphold honesty and integrity in all our actions.
- Respect – We treat every individual with dignity and consideration.
- Responsibility – We take ownership of our work and its impact on others.
- Transparency – We operate with openness and accountability in everything we do.
Our History
In 2003, Monique Pineda, President of the Asociación de Instituciones Peruanas de USA y Canadá (AIPEUC), envisioned creating a cultural organization dedicated to sharing Peru’s heritage in its full expression. She invited Elizabeth Anderson to collaborate on this meaningful endeavor.
Their goal was to bring recognition to the arts and traditions upheld by Peruvian migrants living across the United States and Canada—allowing local communities to experience and celebrate Peru’s beauty and diversity.
On January 22, 2003, the Asociación Peruana Internacional de Cultura (APIC) — known in English as International Peruvian Association of Culture — was officially established as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
Founding Members
Elizabeth Anderson, Carlos Corcuera, Ada Kraft, Hernando Mares, Delicia Mares, Conchita Morchón, Galo & Marina Núñez, Aquiles Palomino PhD, Monique Pineda, Alberto Pizarro, Julie Reyes, Leo Roca, Adriana Roca, Aida Roldán, Luis José Sánchez, Elena Shinnick, Oscar Serrón, Sharon Serrón, and Luz Watts PhD.
Current Officers
- President: Victor Escobar
- Treasurer: Carla Tosso
- Secretary: Alida Turner
Awards & Recognition
- City of Los Angeles Art Commission
- City of Pasadena Recognition
- AIPEUC National and AIPEUC Los Angeles Chapter Honors
Cultural Programs & Events
Splendors of Peru
Each year, APIC presents “Splendors of Peru”, a celebration of traditional Peruvian music and dance, featuring renowned performers representing Andean, Creole, and Afro-Peruvian heritage.
Past Events:
- 2003 – Peruvian Independence Day Celebration
- 2004 – Peruvian Carnival Fundraiser
- 2006 – Splendors of Peru: Inca Period Costume Exhibition
- 2007 – Splendors of Peru: Viceroyalty Era Cultural Showcase
- 2008 – Splendors of Peru: Music Edition featuring Grammy-nominated artist Damaris
- 2009 – Splendors of Peru: Heritage and Traditions
- 2012 – Splendors of Peru: Heritage Show
- 2015 – A Tribute to Lima: History, Art, and Costume
- 2016 – Peruvian Dances: Heritage of Peru
- 2018 – A Tribute to Cusco
Sabor a Perú
This culinary event highlights the artistry of Peruvian cuisine. Skilled chefs from across Southern California prepare a variety of traditional dishes, allowing guests to taste, enjoy, and vote for their favorites. The event also includes friendly culinary competitions within the Peruvian community.
Past Editions:
- 2003 – Peruvian Food Tasting
- 2004 – Annual Food Championship
- 2005 – Gourmet Lunch
- 2006–2008 – Peruvian Food Tastings
- 2009 – Sabor a Perú Expo
- 2010 – Sabor a Perú Festival
- 2013 – Peruvian Gourmet Lunch
2016 – Sabor a Perú Festival
Charity & Fundraising Events
APIC has consistently organized community events to raise funds for charitable causes in both Peru and the United States.
Highlights:
- 2004–2005, 2011–2012 – New Year’s Fundraisers
- 2010 – Luau Fundraiser hosted by Elizabeth Anderson
- 2010 – Christmas Charity Party: Gifts for children in Cusco
- 2012–2014 – Halloween Fundraising Events
- 2013–2014 – Independence Day Celebrations
- 2016 – Navidad Solidaria: Toys for children in Long Beach schools
- 2017 – Annual Christmas Fundraiser
Community Impact
The proceeds from APIC’s events support vital humanitarian projects.
Following past devastating floods in Peru, APIC contributed essential health supplies, vaccinations, and mosquito repellents to protect affected families from disease.
The organization also proudly supported the construction of schools in rural areas such as Quinuambamba, Arequipa, and Pisco (Peru). These initiatives were made possible through partnerships with U.S. and Peruvian nonprofits and local leaders having given children the opportunity to attend school in their own communities.