About Us
Unity strengthens our profession and empowers our communities.
Many hands, one heart — shaping the future of acupuncture in California.
Hope
Together we heal, together we thrive.
Bright
One voice, one vision — advancing acupuncture together.
History
Our Mission
Our History
Our History
- The mission of the California Acupuncture Coalition is to unify the voice of the acupuncture and herbal medicine profession, advancing its role in holistic patient care and public health.
- We arededicated to promoting the well-being of patients, safeguarding public health, strengthening theprofession, and working toward health equity and justice for all communities.
Our History
Our History
Our History
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) was founded to bring together the diverse voices of California’s acupuncture and herbal medicine community under one unified platform. Recognizing the growing need for collaboration among professional associations, educators, and advocates, CAC was established to strengthen collective advocacy, s
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) was founded to bring together the diverse voices of California’s acupuncture and herbal medicine community under one unified platform. Recognizing the growing need for collaboration among professional associations, educators, and advocates, CAC was established to strengthen collective advocacy, support professional development, and promote equitable access to holistic healthcare for all Californians.
Origins and Purpose
The roots of CAC lie in decades of dedication and progress within California’s acupuncture field. Since the 1970s, when acupuncture first became recognized and regulated in California, numerous professional organizations have worked tirelessly to protect patient access, elevate education standards, and ensure professional integrity. CAC was formed to unite these efforts—transforming individual advocacy into a shared mission and collective action.
A Legacy of Collaboration
California has long been a national leader in acupuncture legislation and education. From the legalization of acupuncture practice in 1975 to the expansion of professional licensing and the integration of herbal medicine, the state’s progress has been driven by unity and persistence. CAC continues this legacy by creating a common space where associations, schools, and practitioners can work together to address emerging healthcare challenges, support legislation, and advance the recognition of acupuncture as an essential component of public health.
Moving Forward
Today, the California Acupuncture Coalition represents a growing alliance of member associations, supporting organizations, and volunteers committed to holistic healing, professional excellence, and community wellness. Through collaboration, education, and advocacy, CAC stands as a unified voice for the future of acupuncture and herbal medicine in California.
Our Team
Our History
Our Team
Our team is made up of dedicated professionals and volunteers who share a passion for advancing acupuncture and herbal medicine in California. From our board members to our community advocates, everyone at the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) is united by a common purpose — to strengthen our profession, promote holistic health, and serve the well-being of all communities across the state.
Leadership
Board of Directors
Volunteer Leadership
Board of Directors
The Board of Directors of the California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) provides strategic direction, governance, and oversight to ensure that the Coalition’s mission — unifying and advancing the acupuncture and herbal medicine profession — is carried out effectively.
Our board members represent diverse backgrounds in acupuncture practice, education, and advocacy, working collaboratively to guide CAC’s initiatives and long-term vision.
Advisory Council
Volunteer Leadership
Board of Directors
The Advisory Council is composed of respected leaders, educators, and practitioners who provide expert insight, policy guidance, and professional counsel to CAC.
Their collective experience strengthens our advocacy, enhances public engagement, and ensures that our work reflects the needs and values of California’s acupuncture community.
Volunteer Leadership
Volunteer Leadership
Volunteer Leadership
The Volunteer Leadership Team represents the heart of CAC — a dedicated group of professionals and students who bring energy, commitment, and compassion to every initiative.
From organizing events and outreach programs to supporting legislative efforts, our volunteers play a vital role in strengthening CAC’s presence and impact across California.
Volunteer With Us
Volunteer With Us
Volunteer Leadership
From event planning to administrative tasks, we need volunteers to help us run our programs effectively. Join us and become a C hero today.
Spread the Word
Volunteer With Us
Spread the Word
Help us raise awareness about our cause by sharing our mission with your friends and family. Follow us on social media and invite others to join our community.
Join Our Team
Volunteer With Us
Spread the Word
If you're passionate about making a difference, join our team and become part of the CAC family. We're always looking for dedicated individuals to help us achieve our goals.
Member Associations
United in purpose, stronger in action.
The California Acupuncture Coalition (CAC) brings together leading professional acupuncture and herbal medicine organizations across California.
By uniting our voices, we strengthen advocacy, protect public health, and promote the growth of our profession statewide.
Each member association contributes unique strengths, perspectives, and expertise — together forming a powerful alliance dedicated to advancing acupuncture and integrative medicine in every community.
Member Associations include:
- American Association of Chinese Medicine & Acupuncture (AACMA)
- Association of Korean Asian Medicine & Acupuncture of California (AKAMAC)
- Alhambra Medical University Alumni Association (AMUAA)
- United Acupuncture Association (UAA)
Together, these organizations collaborate through CAC to:
- Represent the acupuncture profession with one unified voice.
- Advocate for fair legislation and professional standards.
- Promote public awareness and access to holistic healthcare.
Supporting Organizations
Five Branches University
Five Branches University
Graduate School of Traditional Chinese Medicine Santa Cruz/San Jose, California
Whitewater University
The mission of Whitewater University of California is to provide high-quality, accessible, affordable graduate education that integrates techonolgies and service to inspire students to engage in community and global transformation. The mission of WUC School of Traditional Chinese Medicine is to provide most comprehensive training in classical acupuncture & Chinese medicine, excellent healthcare services in Alternative medicine, training of excellent TCM practitioner's perfect skill and absolute sincerity.
North East Medical Services
North East Medical Services (NEMS) is a non-profit community health center serving the San Francisco Bay Area. Our mission is to provide affordable, comprehensive, compassionate and quality health care services in a linguistically competent and culturally sensitive manner to improve the health and well-being of our community.
Dongguk University Los Angeles
Mission Statement
- To explore and embody the principles and practices of traditional East Asian medicine.
- To develop a community of skilled medical practitioners.
- To provide accessible health care services to the local community.
Alhambra Medical University
In February 2011, Alhambra Medical University became a candidate for accreditation by the Accreditation Commission for Acupuncture and Herbal Medicine (ACAHM), which is the recognized accrediting agency for freestanding institutions and colleges of acupuncture or oriental medicine. In February of 2019, AMU was re-accredited for seven years, the highest possible award through 2026. In August of 2022, the Doctor’s program was accredited for seven years, the highest possible award through 2029.
California University - Silicon Valley
One of the best schools that offers Master of Acupuncture with a Chinese Herbal Medicine Specialization degree in higher education.