Humans of Scott: Chona Retiro Jones helping others Published May 30, 2023 By Senior Airman Mark Sulaica 375th Air Mobility Wing Public Affairs SCOTT AIR FORCE BASE, Ill. -- With such a diverse team, you don’t have to look far to find someone in Team Scott with an inspiring story. Chona Retiro Jone's roots are deeply embedded in the humble town of Bayog, Philippines, where her family dedicated themselves to the cultivation and production of rice. For the past 22 years, Chona had been actively engaged in supporting various organizations and communities, starting from her college days and continuing through her work as an Overseas Filipino worker. Her ultimate goal was to contribute to a nonprofit organization, driven by her desire to make a difference. Chona Retrio Jones poses for a photo during Asian American Islander Pacific Heritage Month on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May, 9 2023. AAPIHM is observed during the month of May in the United States to celebrate the achievements and culture of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Sulaica) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res “One of the core values I was taught by my parents was to help others in need from the elderly and underprivileged children from school supplies to medical supplies,” said Chona. The impact she felt was immeasurable, witnessing the willingness of people to donate their time and be present for worthy causes with genuine sincerity. It brought her immense joy to know that she had touched their lives, empowering and inspiring them in the process. Assisting people and communities was second nature to Chona, a trait she inherited from her parents. Even during her college years, as a student, she actively participated in the Rotary Club International. “We hope to help younger generations that aren’t able to go home to the Philippines to embrace their culture with our dance, food, clothes,” said Chona. Chona is driven by the desire to encourage the younger generation, particularly those unable to return home to the Philippines, to experience the richness of their culture firsthand with a traditional Polka Bal at AAPIHM events in the local area. “I'm happy to touch people's lives to give them empowerment and inspiration.” Asian American Islander Pacific Heritage Month: Chona Retiro Jones Chona Retrio Jones poses for a photo during Asian American Islander Pacific Heritage Month on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May, 9 2023. AAPIHM is observed during the month of May in the United States to celebrate the achievements and culture of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Sulaica) Photo Details / Download Hi-Res Chona Retrio Jones poses for a photo during Asian American Islander Pacific Heritage Month on Scott Air Force Base, Illinois, May, 9 2023. AAPIHM is observed during the month of May in the United States to celebrate the achievements and culture of Asian and Pacific Islander Americans. (U.S. Air Force photo by Senior Airman Mark Sulaica)