THE VOICE OF BALANCE
For Nearly 40 Years

Valley Forward has long been an advocate for a balance between economic development and environmental quality, and convenes business, community and civic leaders in thoughtful public dialogue on these regional issues.

The Association is a blend of members including large and small businesses, government jurisdictions and others that share a goal of promoting cooperation to improve the environment and quality of life in the Valley.

Valley Forward is unique. It's a public interest organization that's influenced quality of life and environmental decisions since 1969. It was formed as a non-profit group merging the Phoenix Development Association, Mid-Town Improvement Association, Valley Beautiful Citizens Council and Maricopa County Taxpayers Association. We now boast more than 275 member companies, involving 600 active participants, working together to help shape our community and move our Valley forward.

MAKING A DIFFERENCE

There are no plaques anywhere saying "Valley Forward Was Here." But in the past 38 years, this effective coalition has made quite a difference. From the government mall to the Rio Salado project and Tempe Town Lake, from the healed scars of the Phoenix Mountains to the ribbons of freeway across the community, from desert preserves throughout the Valley to a light rail transit system, Valley Forward has left its mark.

In addition to monthly luncheons, Valley Forward sponsors major yearly events like:

• the Environmental Excellence Awards program, established in 1981 and now co-sponsored by SRP;
• a Livability Summit, designed to promote healthy communities;
• EarthFest Educators Night, an event that provides teachers a chance to enhance their environmental education curricula; and
• an Annual Luncheon featuring networking and a prominent keynote speaker.

Valley Forward's achievements are widespread including:

• Outstanding Achievement Award from the Environmental Protection Agency;
• Award of Distinction from the American Institute of Architects;
• Desert Peaks Award from the Maricopa Association of Governments for helping to create the Phoenix Rio Salado project;
• First-place honors in the City of Phoenix Mayor's Environmental Awards Program;
• First-place in the Arizona Clean & Beautiful Governor's Pride Awards, and others.

View photos of the Valley Then & Now (1 | 2 | 3 | 4)