Rooted in Jacksonville's rich Chinese immigrant heritage, the Southern Oregon Chinese Cultural Association serves the Medford area and greater Southern Oregon community as a bridge between historical memory and contemporary cultural celebration. Founded in 2005, SOCCA honors the vital contributions Chinese settlers made to the region's economic and cultural identity through education, celebration, and meaningful community engagement. The organization's mission centers on bringing people together to celebrate Asian cultures through joyful, hands-on activities and open conversations that build understanding and respect across diverse backgrounds. Each year, SOCCA's Lunar New Year Celebration transforms downtown Jacksonville into a vibrant cultural gathering where local schools, community groups, and regional partners collaborate to showcase heritage and unity. What makes SOCCA distinctive is its deeply personal commitment to the Medford and Jacksonville communities—the organization doesn't simply present cultural performances, but actively involves neighbors in learning, sharing, and connecting across cultural lines. SOCCA's work is sustained by an engaged network of volunteers, local businesses, arts organizations, and educational institutions who recognize the value of preserving and celebrating Asian cultural traditions. As an independent 501(c)(3) organization with tax-exempt status since 2014, SOCCA continues to expand its circle of cultural partners and participants, creating inclusive experiences that honor both traditional customs and contemporary community diversity. The organization exemplifies how cultural celebration can strengthen community bonds while preserving important historical narratives.
Medford, OR