Mission

AFO Ecosystem

The AFO Ecosystem illustrates our role in engaging Oregonians in the design of our built environment. This is accomplished through partnerships and working with the design and building industry to support students and adults at every stage of their educational and professional journey.

AFO believes that all Oregonians benefit from thoughtful design in their homes, in their community and in the environment around them. Through dynamic programming such as Architects in Schools and our Scholarship program, AFO works with community partners to share design’s role in shaping our future.

AFO partners with organizations across the state to connect communities with the power of design. By convening conversations and encouraging involvement, we empower people to embrace design as a tool to impact the future of Oregon for generations to come.

AFO embraces the special sense of place that makes Oregon a unique location. From honoring the people and organizations that define this place we call home to fostering the next generation of leaders and thinkers, we work to ensure that our built and natural environments inspire us to dream more, create more and do more.

History

AFO has grown into a thriving and dynamic nonprofit organization since 1981, when five firms provided $5,000 each to fund an endowment leading to incorporation as a not-for-profit Oregon corporation in 1983. AIA Portland, additional architecture firms and individuals contributed operating funds.

With partnerships across the state of Oregon, AFO is committed to supporting Oregon’s quality of life through education, engagement and inspiration.