APANO was founded in 1996 with significant support from the Immigrant Refugee Community Organization in Multnomah County under the principle that we are stronger together, and that our communities would benefit from more coordinated leadership particularly in areas of public policy advocacy.  As of 2016, APANO became a 501c4 organization,  and we extend our deep appreciations to the Immigrant Refugee Community Organization for its foresight and continued support.  In addition we wish to acknowledge the following organizations,  Oregon Fair Share Research and Education Fund, Center for Intercultural Organizing, Western States Center and the Rural Organizing Project for extending organizational support and mentorship over the last 16 years.

While our Asian and Pacific Islander (API) communities have made generations of contributions to American society, our shared history is that of persistent discrimination and inequities.  We are a community of contrasts, with some communities doing very well, and some communities facing significant opportunity gaps, particularly in education, health and economic prosperity.  These realities are well documented in national publications such as A Community of Contrasts 2011 by the Asian American Justice Center and the 2012 Asian Pacific Islanders in Multnomah County Report by the Coalition of Communities of Color.

APANO has worked for social justice for over 15 years, and continues to evolve as Oregon’s leading Asian and Pacific Islander grassroots advocacy organization.

What is the Difference?

APANO and APANO Communities United Fund are two separate corporate entities, that are affiliated to promote a broad range of work. Although overlap exists, certain activities must be done by one organization and not the other.

• APANO, also known as the Asian Pacific American Network of Oregon, is organized as a 501(c)4 tax-exempt organization that may engage in legislative lobbying and certain political activity. Membership dues and other gifts given to support APANO are not tax-deductible.
• APANO Communities United Fund is organized as a 501(c)3 tax exempt organization. Contributions to APANO Communities United Fund are tax-deductible.

Contributions made to either organization will be used to support, promote and advance our goal of uniting Asian and Pacific Islanders to achieve social justice. However each organization will use only the funds contributed directly to it for the specific activities it conducts.