Building the next generation of diverse leaders since 1999.

Our Program Initiatives

Leadership Development

Workforce Investment

Civic Engagement

Community Resiliency

Information Sharing

Capacity Building

Relationship Building

Our Impact

1,200+ participates in our programs since inception

Over 30,000 connected through our digital network

250+ individuals placed into jobs/leadership roles after program participation

Over $50,000 granted to entrepreneurs and small business owners

25,000+ Small businesses and community members engaged with mental health and resources

Challenges within the Community

As of 2025, California’s population is approximately 39 million, and about

25.7 million

residents—66% of the state—identify as non-white. This includes 40% Latino, 16% Asian American or Pacific Islander, 6% Black, 3% multiracial, and fewer than 1% Native American or Alaska Native (U.S. Census Bureau, 2025).

As of 2023, 27% of Californians are foreign-born—more than double the national average. California is home to over

10 million

immigrants—nearly a third of the state’s population (PPIC, 2023).

More than half of California’s high school graduates are from underrepresented groups, many of whom are first- or second-generation immigrants, yet they enroll in and complete college at significantly lower rates—about

19%

lower in enrollment and as much as 20+% lower in completion (PPIC, 2023).

In California, nearly

19%

of residents speak English less than “very well,” and this language barrier—combined with higher unbanked rates among immigrant households—limits families’ ability to navigate financial aid, access resources, and support their children’s path to higher education, contributing to lower college enrollment and completion rates.

In California, foreign-born residents face higher poverty rates—about

21.9%

versus 14.8% for U.S.-born individuals—and it reaches as high as 36% (PPIC, 2023).

Nationwide, underrepresented communities comprise around 41% of the U.S. population, yet account for just

28%

of general-election candidates—highlighting a significant mismatch in candidacy and representation (ABC, 2022).

Although individuals from diverse communities make up nearly two-thirds of California’s population, they remain underrepresented in political leadership—holding just over

40%

of seats in the state legislature and less than 20% of key executive appointments. This gap reflects structural barriers and a lack of encouragement for diverse communities to pursue political office, leaving California’s leadership not fully reflective of its demographics (PPIC, 2023).

A 2023 report found that only

39%

39% of senior executive roles and 50% of managerial positions are held by racially and ethnically diverse employees, highlighting their significant underrepresentation in top leadership across the state.

Despite making up a significant portion of the population, underrepresented communities in California are disproportionately represented in low-wage jobs—occupying many of the

5.6 million

low-wage positions across the state—underscoring inequities in workforce development opportunities.

Partner With Us

CalAsian Foundation is committed to providing pathways that will continue to advance underserved individuals in various ways. Our programs have impacted the lives of many in accelerating careers, businesses and civic participation. Be a part of our journey in continuing our efforts by contributing to our cause.

Participating in the AAPI Lift Conference was an empowering experience that inspired me to embrace leadership within our community. The connections made and insights gained from industry leaders have been invaluable in driving both personal and professional growth. It’s a must-attend event for anyone seeking to elevate their impact!

MayMay Huang

Realtor, Epique Realty

The NextGen Empower U Program is amazing for young AAPI adults who are stuck or lost in various facets of their life. This program has taught me many things I did not previously know about and I feel more confident in leading a successful life because of this program.

Madison Duong

Alumni, California State University, Sacramento

It’s amazing to be part of the Node’s network. I’ve met many great individuals. The workshops are extremely helpful to the growth of Asian Creative Foundation. I’ve also learned how other non-profit grow their organizations.”

Susana Chen

Node Founding Member, CEO of Asian Creative Network (50,000 members on Facebook)

The past three months have been very engaging, informative, and overall a great educational experience. I am grateful that I stepped out of my comfort zone and applied for this program because it definitely was well worth it. This program challenged me, my ways of thinking, my complacency, but most importantly it sparked new ideas in me that will go back with me to my community to continue to work and strive for change!”

Adam Allen

Participant, Catalyst
Leadership Program

Susana Chen

Node Founding Member, CEO of Asian Creative Network (50,000 members on Facebook)

As Asian American Women Political Initiative expands nationally this year, Node's trainings and being part of Node's community of AAPI leaders have been incredibly valuable in this critical moment for us. It's a space we needed to help us maximize our impact as we grow AAWPI.