OUR HISTORY
The Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers was founded during a pivotal era of transformation—emerging from the early waves of healthcare reform and fueled by a bold spirit of innovation. What began in the early 1970s as an informal alliance among ten visionary community-based organizations has grown into a leading force for primary care and advocacy in Orange County.
These pioneering executive directors and clinic managers came together with a shared purpose: to exchange best practices, pool resources, and strengthen their collective voice through trust and collaboration. Even in those early days, their mission was clear—to build access points for health and social services for Orange County’s medically under-resourced and historically excluded communities.
Their efforts culminated in April 1974, with the formal incorporation of the Coalition as a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization.
OUR VISION
Everyone has access to comprehensive, affordable, quality care with dignity.
OUR MISSION
The Coalition of Orange County Community Health Centers unites health centers and partners to amplify their collective voice and strengthen their capacity to ensure every person has access to high quality care.
OUR CORE VALUES
We believe in:
Dignity and Diversity – We honor every person’s dignity and ensure access reflects the diverse identities and needs of the communities we serve.
Healthcare as a Human Right – We affirm access to quality, affordable care as a basic human right.
Collective Action and Partnership – We unite health centers, community organizations, elected leaders, and our cross-sector partners to advocate and strengthen the healthcare system.
Accountability in Stewardship – We steward and mobilize resources responsibly and transparently to maximize impact for patients and communities.
Prevention and Proactive Care – We champion value-based care that prioritizes prevention early interventions, and patient engagement for healthier patient outcomes and community well-being.
Organizational Integrity and Care – We foster an inclusive culture where staff, board, members, and partners are respected and valued, and our practices reflect the dignity and equity we advance in the community.
OUR COMMITMENT
We are committed to supporting the needs of our members through service, education, advocacy, and resources so that they can effectively serve their communities.
