This brief provides an overview of an emerging and unique workforce in California. Community health workers (CHWs) and promotores are public health professionals who carry out a variety of health promotion, case management, and service delivery activities at the community level. This profession encompasses a wide range of work practices, training, education, and regulation in different communities throughout the state. Key issues and policy concerns for these workers are explored, namely, Pending Legislation, Mandating Credentials, Funding, and Integrating into Mainstream Healthcare. Addressing these issues requires a delicate balance between building professional recognition and standards for these workers without compromising the core values and heart of community health work.