Our Founders

Founders C.C. and Regina Yin, together with a pioneering group of civic and community leaders, established APAPA (the Asian Pacific American Public Affairs Association) in 2001 to inspire, engage, and empower the API community to increase leadership and civic engagement. They are truly passionate and committed to advancing advocacy and representation to ensure our voices are heard.

CC & Regina immigrated to this country from China and Taiwan to attend the University of Washington graduate school programs for engineering and social work. Later in life, they became McDonald’s Franchise Operators in Northern California, and owners of the Yin Ranch, a beautiful 40 acre property in Solano County, California which hosts many community and nonprofit events. They continue to serve as advisors for APAPA.

Our Mission

Advancing Asian Pacific Islander Communities Through Increased Leadership And Civic Engagement

Fulfilling a Deep Need

With grassroots support through a growing number of leaders and student interns, APAPA set out to engage voters, partner with the community, and develop emerging API leaders. APAPA also engages the community through cultural events and programs to honor the many positive contributions of community.  Through mutual understanding and appreciation of our history, we embrace diversity as our strength. Together, we are building a better world that is diverse, inclusive, and with representation from all voices and communities.

Continuous Growth

Two decades ago, APAPA opened its National Headquarters in Sacramento, just a few miles from California’s Capitol, with grassroots leaders and ambassadors across the country. The APAPA National Internship Program partners with hundreds of hosting legislators and public officials across the country each year to support the next generation of leaders. Momentum is growing with new APAPA leaders, interns, events, and programs, expanding across the country each year.