Founded by Setareh Rabizadeh on January 31, 1995, the Iranian Women's Association of Oregon has spent nearly three decades serving the Portland, Oregon community with unwavering commitment to Iranian-American families. IWAO is rooted in the belief that every family deserves support in raising their children in a proud, comfortable, and happy multicultural environment where bilingual development thrives. As a volunteer-led non-profit, the organization embodies the dedication of women who have invested immeasurable hours building IWAO's presence and establishing meaningful connections throughout Portland and the broader Oregon and Washington region.
What sets IWAO apart is its grassroots approach to community building and cultural preservation. The organization understands that maintaining Iranian heritage, language, customs, and culture requires more than programs—it requires genuine relationships and sustained community involvement. IWAO's volunteers have successfully developed regular services and initiatives that resonate with families seeking to balance their Iranian identity with life in the Pacific Northwest. The association's work extends beyond cultural transmission to encompassing family support and intergenerational connection. By creating spaces where Iranian women and families gather, learn, and grow together, IWAO has become an essential anchor for the Iranian-American community in Portland, offering not just classes and programs, but a sense of belonging and cultural continuity that strengthens families across generations.
Portland, OR