Honoring 30 Years of Empowering Health Centers

As we celebrated the 30th anniversary of the California Primary Care Association (CPCA) this year, we are filled with gratitude for everyone who joined us in recognizing three decades of empowering community health centers in California. This milestone marks the tireless advocacy and dedication of CPCA members and supporters, including the Regional Associations of California, coalition partners, and community-based organizations who have worked to ensure that quality healthcare is accessible to all Californians.

Throughout the year, CPCA’s staff celebrated this milestone in various ways, building team spirit through trivia events and the lively “Staff Olympics” that fostered fun competition. Potlucks allowed team members to strengthen bonds, while volunteer opportunities underscored CPCA’s mission of service and community support.

In July, we put out a call for submissions to the Faces of Community Health Photo Exhibit. These photos, which were on display at the 2024 Annual Conference in October, captured what community health looks like in communities across the state – from urban cities to rural and agricultural regions – and encompassing the diverse cultures that make up California’s population. Thank you to all who submitted!

In October, CPCA held a 30th anniversary event at the California Museum, coinciding with the 2024 Annual Conference. This gathering brought together members, advocates, and supporters to honor CPCA’s legacy of healthcare advocacy and celebrated the collective impact of the community health center movement. The reception was a heartfelt gathering that highlighted the impact we have when we work together.

Just one week later, that impact was felt at the polls as voters resoundingly approved Proposition 35, preserving needed funding for health centers to continue providing quality care to the more than seven million Californians who are patients. Looking to the future, we are already planning for implementation of this generational opportunity to secure long-term, stable funding for California’s Medi-Cal program and patients.

As we close out this 30th anniversary year, we thank all members, staff, and partners who have contributed to CPCA’s work and vision. Yet even as we look back, we also look to the future – to position community health centers as providers and employers of choice, and to ensure the wellbeing and civic health of our communities. Here’s to many more years of advocating for healthcare access!

Learn more about CPCA’s journey here: CPCA30.org