A history of grassroots programming
The Cambodian American Resource Agency (CARA) is a Cambodian-American organization dedicated to uplifting Cambodian arts, culture, and community. Founded in 1998 to house grassroots programs in the San Jose Cambodian community, we currently operate three main programs:
The San Jose Cambodian Cultural Dance Troupe
Sala Khmer (A Khmer language school)
Seniors Move! (a senior wellness program).
These programs are offered free of charge to the community, with instructors offering high quality teaching in an environment that bring the whole family together.
These programs primarily operate out of the Olinder Community Center through our partnership with Chopsticks Alley. These programs are supported by the City of San Jose, The Alliance for California Traditional Arts, Silicon Valley Creates, A Khmer Buddhist Foundation, the families in our programs, and community donors.
Nearly 30 years of community building
“I teach to honor my colleagues and teachers that were lost during the Khmer Rouge genocide
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— Savary Dean, Cambodian Cultural Dance Troupe rector
