Outreach Programs
Our outreach programs are based within the Alabama Center for Architecture, a nonprofit 501(c)(3) organization. The mission of the Alabama Center for Architecture shows our commitment to promoting architecture and design. To that end, the ACFA conducts various charitable and educational activities to further the appreciation of architecture and design within the community.
Through exhibitions, programs and special events, the Center aims to improve the quality and sustainability of the built environment, foster exchange between the design, construction, real estate communities and encourage collaborations across the city and state. Visit the ACFA website to learn more.
The ACFA’s elementary school outreach program, dreamARCHITECTURE, is an annual art competition that encourages children to think about their built environment. This wildly successful program sees participation from nearly 1,200 area children each year. Contest themes vary each year, allowing students to express their creativity through drawing their dream house, zoo, park and more.
N2 Architecture is a free, interactive program designed to bring local practicing architects to area middle schools to educate students about the importance of architecture. A typical 30-45 minute presentation includes an overview of building and space design, architecture through history and around the world and an architect’s daily life.
ACE is a unique partnership among architecture, design and construction professionals who mentor high school students to introduce them to the professions and encourage them to pursue studies and careers in these fields. The industry gets a boost of new talent, and high school students are exposed to a possible career path.
Architecture Student Scholarships
The ACFA Scholarship is a program that has given more than $125,000 in scholarship dollars since its creation. These funds are made possible through the annual ACFA Golf Tournament, scholarship grants from AIA National and generous donations of patrons and sponsors.
The annual golf tournament is one of ACFA’s most successful fundraising events, as well as one of the highlights of the year for players, sponsors and patrons. Held at Highland Park Golf Course, the tournament has raised more than $100,000 for charity and scholarships since its inception in 1995.
ACFA’s Lego Exhibit is a highlight for local children in the state each year. Kids can visit the design build room, test their LEGO models on the seismic shake table, go on a design scavenger hunt, see architectural models and LEGO models of famous architecture. This event is a free experience that allows children of all ages to open their minds to the world of architecture, engineering, and design. ACFA’s Lego Exhibit isn’t just an event; it’s a gateway to a world where creativity knows no bounds, inspiring the future builders of our world.
