The Afghan community has had a presence in the greater Portland and Southern Washington area for over four decades. The numbers while small is representative of different segments of Afghan society. The turbulent years of war and displacement created a steady wave of migrants coming to Portland, Oregon, and Vancouver, Washington. In the last two years, this population has increased by over 230%, with new arrivals. The community has rallied to support their fellow Afghans. Recognizing the need for action, to assist the new arrivals, the Afghan Community and Cultural Organization (ACACO) was formed.

To assist our community’s economic welfare, education, and cultural services. For many of our new arrivals navigating the complex web of economic, legal, and cultural life in America is challenging and at times bewildering. We hope that ACACO can become the bridge to facilitate the transition for many of our fellow Afghans who wish to embark on a new life in the US. As immigrants, Afghans are mindful to place themselves within the broader narrative that is the American experience: to know the history of those who are native inhabitants of this land, as well as those who came unwillingly, and to understand the hardships, struggles they endured in the hope of a better life that America promises.

ACACO is committed to providing relevant services to its community by establishing a Community Center. The center will be the focal point of disseminating services such as English Language, Financial Literacy, Employment Opportunities, and Cultural Orientation. Services will include how to navigate applications for benefits such as Medicaid, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance, and Housing, and applying for a Driver’s License. ACACO is committed to promoting the welfare of our Afghan women to access relevant services. We recognize that women in our community are key to the success of the next generation. ACACO will place disproportionate emphasis on the education of women who as caregivers will be key to avoiding generational poverty. The trauma of migration and the uncertainty that it engenders among many, but especially among women requires the provision of mental health services. Services that are culturally appropriate and accessible. A significant number of male refugees, who served in the military suffer from post-trauma stress disorder (PTSD). Many men, who are suffering, often mask their symptoms and avoid professional help, due to culturally rooted attitudes in seeking professional assistance.

Additionally, many community members are grappling with ‘survivor’s guilt’ for abandoning family members. ACACO is committed to providing relevant resources and help to address these important needs. ACACO is engaged in fostering close relations with other community-based organizations, to learn and share experiences on ways to building resilient partnerships.