Preserving Afghan Heritage in the Pacific Northwest
The Hazara Community of Oregon is a proud Afghan-led 501(c)(3) nonprofit, serving as a vibrant hub for preserving and celebrating Afghanistan's rich cultural heritage.
Our Story
Founded by dedicated Afghan Americans, HCO is a beacon of cultural pride and unity in the Pacific Northwest. Our mission is to celebrate and share Afghanistan's history and traditions while fostering community for Afghans living in Oregon.
While rooted in the Hazara and Afghan communities, HCO welcomes and supports immigrants, refugees, and community members from all backgrounds through its educational, cultural, and community-based programs.
Through programs such as cultural festivals, art exhibitions, language classes, culinary workshops, and community support services, we bring Afghan culture to life across Portland and the surrounding areas.
As a registered nonprofit, HCO also provides educational resources to support Afghan immigrants, promote cross-cultural understanding, and strengthen ties with their homeland.
Resilience, strength, and diversity.
Through our work, we highlight the resilience, strength, and diversity of the Afghan diaspora — offering a space to experience and celebrate the legacy of Afghan culture. We believe that preserving our heritage is not just about looking back, but about building a stronger future for generations to come.
Our Values
The principles that guide everything we do at HCO.
Cultural Pride
We celebrate Afghanistan's rich history, traditions, and artistic heritage — keeping our identity alive for future generations.
Community First
Everything we do is built around the needs of Afghan families in Oregon — from language classes to employment support.
Empowerment
We equip community members with the tools, confidence, and resources to build fulfilling lives in the United States.
Cross-Cultural Understanding
We bridge cultures by sharing Afghan traditions with the wider Oregon community, fostering mutual respect and connection.
Our Journey
Key moments in the growth of the Hazara Community of Oregon.
HCO founded in Portland
First cultural festival hosted
501(c)(3) status received
Dari language classes launched
Women empowerment program started
Expanded to 10+ active programs
A Home Away from Home
For many Afghan families arriving in Oregon, HCO is their first point of connection. We provide a warm, welcoming space where newcomers can find familiar faces, hear their language spoken, and access the support they need to start rebuilding.
From navigating the school system to finding employment, from learning English to maintaining Dari — our community wraps around each family, making sure no one walks this path alone.
Join Our Community
Whether you want to volunteer, donate, or simply connect with the Afghan community in Oregon — we'd love to hear from you.