Our History
The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington (CACCWA) is a non-profit 501c(3) organization based in the Puget Sound area of Washington State.
Our History
The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington (CACCWA) is a non-profit 501c(3) organization based in the Puget Sound area of Washington State.
The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington (CACCWA) was founded in 2015 during a community gathering to commemorate the 40th anniversary of the Cambodian Genocide (1975-1979). The event, held in Seattle, brought together community members and intergenerational leaders from across Washington State, all driven by a shared purpose: to establish an organization that would serve the Cambodian American community, preserve its cultural identity, and address the needs of present and future generations. This shared vision laid the foundation for CACCWA as a nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering Cambodian Americans throughout the state.
CACCWA’s guiding vision is to build strong, thriving Cambodian American communities across Washington State. Its mission is deeply rooted in strengthening these communities through a focus on educational support, cultural appreciation, and fostering intergenerational and intercultural connections. This commitment to education and cultural recognition is reflected in the organization’s earliest and most enduring projects. Since its inception, CACCWA has hosted annual scholarship and graduation ceremonies to celebrate the academic achievements of Cambodian American students, alongside annual cultural events that celebrate the rich heritage and traditions of the Cambodian community. CACCWA also facilitates community forums, in partnership with the University of Washington, offering platforms for dialogue, learning, and community engagement.
The organization’s relevance and responsiveness to community needs were particularly highlighted during the COVID-19 pandemic, when CACCWA provided critical relief efforts to help Cambodian American families navigate the challenges posed by the pandemic. This commitment to addressing community needs has remained a core value as CACCWA continues to evolve.
Over the years, CACCWA has significantly expanded its scope of work, moving beyond its initial projects to take on new initiatives that respond to the emerging needs of the Cambodian American community. Among its current projects is the Small Business Resiliency Network (SBRN), in collaboration with the Washington State Department of Commerce, which supports Cambodian-owned small businesses in strengthening their resilience and sustainability. The organization is also engaged in the Labor & Industries Small Business Project, aimed at helping local businesses navigate regulatory requirements and improve workplace conditions.
In addition to its business-focused efforts, CACCWA has partnered with the Equity in Education Coalition and, later, with the Washington State Broadband Office to launch various Digital Navigator initiatives, addressing digital equity by providing technological support and education to community members. Furthermore, CACCWA is working with the Seattle Office of Emergency Management to enhance emergency preparedness within the Cambodian American community.
In just nine years, CACCWA has evolved from a grassroots organization into a trusted messenger in the Cambodian American community, gaining valuable experience in planning, organizing, and developing programs that are culturally and linguistically relevant. The dedication of its board, staff, and volunteers has allowed CACCWA to build a solid foundation for future growth, ensuring that Cambodian American communities across Washington State continue to thrive and receive the support they need to flourish.
The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington was held in Seattle brought together community members and intergenerational community leaders across Washington State with a common interest for establishing a nonprofit organization, CACCWA, that would provide services to Cambodian American communities in the state.
Our Vision
CACCWA’s vision is to see strong Cambodian American communities thriving throughout Washington State.
Our Mission
The Cambodian American Community Council of Washington’s (CACCWA) mission is to strengthen Cambodian-American communities and organizations by promoting and supporting multi-ethnic community unity, cultural preservation, partnerships, collaboration, and capacity building for its member organizations.
Our Value
CACCWA’s values and principles include cultural preservation, respect, inclusiveness, collaboration, service, mutual sustainability, and innovation.
Workshop & Outreach Photos
