Asian Journal- The Filipino-American Community Newspaper

When Fe Benito arrived to the US, she was a young Filipino on a mission. It was 1964 and she wanted to make a difference.

"I loved to travel and I went all over Europe [but] I wanted to reside and become an American citizen," she said.

"This is a country of opportunity, a country where you can advance socially, educationally and professionally…the US is the greatest nation in the world."

Once Benito arrived to the US there was no question about what her profession would be.

She wanted to help those who were less fortunate.

"I really loved humanity," said Benito. Benito said she decided to pursue social work after being orphaned and left to care for her younger brothers and sister. "I believe I was created by God to serve humanity."

Fe Benito was part of the initial wave of Filipino social workers here in LA that included Royal Morales, Albert Mendoza, Connie Guerrero, Angelina Alpuerto -- the "old guard" of Pilipinotown and predecessors to the Joel Jacintos, Jocelyn Geaga Rosenthals and Susan Dilkes’ of today, according to Fe Benito’s son, Ted.

"It was great because during that time because we had plenty of resources," recalls Fe. "The government was more willing to help the poor and the needy so it was fun in the 60’s, and 70’s."

She said the 1990’s were the hardest hit decade when it came to funding social work.

"You had to lobby, go to congress and city hall to ask for money," said Benito who served as social worker, counselor and administrator.