The Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area is home to an estimated 85,000 vibrant Iranian Americans who formed a community spanning many generations, ethnic groups, and religions. The Iranian-American Community Center (IACC) is a 501(c)(3), non-religious and non-political organization, whose mission is to nurture and empower Iranian-Americans in the Washington, D.C. Metropolitan area. Through its volunteer board of directors and staff, IACC delivers educational and cultural initiatives, operates a vibrant community center, and offers programs that inspire everyone in our community at every stage of life. IACC supports people, culture, and community through carefully tailored programs and initiatives that meet the unique needs and desires of our members. We actively engage our donors and participants in the decision-making process to ensure our efforts are meaningful and relevant to our culture. The impact of our work is visible through many positive changes in our community. People who attend our events experience personal growth, cultural transformation, and a deeper sense of support and belonging. Our community is further nurtured through networking events such as community dinners and the young professional network programs. These connections have less tangible, but equally essential, impacts on the sense of belonging, the strength gained from unification, and comradery that leads to increased support and assistance. Our forward-looking approach includes a plan to expand our organization and hire staff in the coming years. This growth will enable us to reach more people, implement larger programs, and make an even greater difference. Our vision is to create a welcoming space where Iranian-Americans of all backgrounds can connect, learn, and celebrate their shared heritage—where future generations take pride in their roots, feel a deep sense of belonging, and contribute meaningfully to a diverse and united community. We are guided by the following goals: Uphold and share Iranian cultural values, regardless of faith or political beliefs Preserve and promote Persian culture for future generations Maintain and grow the Community Center as a space for connection and celebration Offer social, educational, artistic and recreational programming for all ages Support cross-generational and cross-cultural dialogue within the community Encourage and support the development of future community leaders

We aim to build a thriving Iranian-American community where culture, creativity, and connection are at the heart of everyday life. Through the preservation and celebration of our shared heritage, we seek to strengthen community bonds and create a lasting sense of belonging across generations—where future generations take pride in their heritage, find connection, and contribute meaningfully to a diverse and united society.

Goal One: We are developing new programs to reflect the evolving interests of our community. Our expanded space now hosts art exhibits and musical events that attract both Iranian-American members and the broader public. We've also added more youth programs in response to family requests, offering creative and educational opportunities that reflect our adaptability.

Goal Two: We’ve expanded access through virtual events like our poetry series, voter registration drives, and a growing library space for bilingual book talks. Since moving in June 2024, we’ve welcomed 3,784 visitors and hosted 166 events—a 44% increase from 2023. With 79 events in the first half of 2025, we’re on track to double our annual programming.

Goal Three: We’re investing in systems, staff development, and fundraising strategies to ensure long-term sustainability and effective delivery of our mission. In the past year, we have not only expanded our physical space, but we have also increased the number of our permanent staff from one to three, strengthening our capacity to serve the community.