We bring the world of architecture to students, residents, and communities.
Architecture for Communities Los Angeles (ACLA) is an independent 501(c)(3) nonprofit founded by the American Institute of Architects Los Angeles (AIA|LA), a 501(c)(6) professional organization, to make architecture and design more accessible to the public—especially young people and underserved communities.
Although ACLA shares space and some operational resources with AIA|LA at the Center for Communities, we are a separate organization with our own board, mission, and finances. Our work is entirely focused on educational and community-based programs that inspire the next generation of designers and empower residents to shape their neighborhoods. All grants and donations to ACLA are used solely for 501(c)(3)-approved, charitable purposes.
OUR MISSION
Inspire people to value architecture, empowering all to create a better Los Angeles: one student, one building, one community at a time.
OUR VISION
Be at the forefront of architecture education and community building, advocating for good design created by and for all people of Los Angeles.
WHAT WE DO
WHAT WE DO
INSPIRE K-12 students and their families.
EDUCATE Students in architecture programs.
ENGAGE Communities.
HOW WE DO IT
HOW WE DO IT
LISTEN to communities to learn about their histories, aspirations, and the place they call home.
SERVE communities by providing resources to engage them in the design of their built environment.
WELCOME communities to participate in exhibitions and programming that enhance public appreciation of good design.
COMMUNICATE about the value of good design to achieve our best Los Angeles.
EMPOWER advancement of community leaders by providing tools for community-driven decision making.
DESIGN
DESIGN
Design impacts the lives of our residents, and residents educated about design improve our lives. We endeavor to empower all voices as partners to continue to thrive as a society that serves and benefits all. ACLA believes that designers are powerful advocates to accomplish these aspirational goals and rely on the following values to strategically guide our initiatives.
We believe:
Thoughtful design will inspire and empower people within their local communities
We believe:
Thoughtful design will inspire and empower people within their local communities
VALUES
VALUES
Every student should have access to design education and understand the power of design
Connecting the general public and the design community helps solve some of the most pressing problems in our city
Designers are a critical part of our local economy
A diverse design community is more reflective and accountable
In the preservation and progression of our city’s unique design legacy
In the power of architecture to advance environmental justice.
Connecting the general public and the design community helps solve some of the most pressing problems in our city
Designers are a critical part of our local economy
A diverse design community is more reflective and accountable
In the preservation and progression of our city’s unique design legacy
In the power of architecture to advance environmental justice.
