What is AWC?

Founded in 1933, the Association of Washington Cities (AWC) is a private, nonprofit, nonpartisan corporation that represents Washington's cities and towns before the state legislature, the state executive branch and with regulatory agencies. Membership is voluntary. However, AWC consistently maintains 100% participation from Washington's 281 cities and towns. A 25-member Board of Directors oversees the association's activities.

What does AWC do?

Advocacy

We work with city officials to ensure decision makers know that the state is only as strong as its cities and towns. Our advocacy tools include timely updates, in-depth analysis, and trainings for a stronger grassroots effort.

Training and events

We provide education for municipal leaders, offering trainings that are relevant in today’s fast-paced, dynamic world.

Data and resources

Our research and publications help city leaders make fact-based decisions, identify trends, and explore new ways to approach city issues. The collective buying power our AWC GIS Consortium increases your capacity to utilize GIS technology in your city or town.

Member Pooling Programs

The pooling of like employers keeps overall costs lower and more predictable, allowing our members more time to invest in their community. Our programs include the AWC Employee Benefit Trust, AWC Risk Management Service Agency, AWC Workers’ Comp Retro, and AWC Drug & Alcohol Consortium.

Mission & vision

AWC’s mission is to serve our members through advocacy, education and services.

AWC is a highly respected voice of cities and towns before the Legislature, Congress, government agencies and others. We are the leader in providing valuable services and continuing education for our membership. We are the catalyst for promoting communication between cities and towns and for developing a broad public understanding of the important roles of cities and towns across the state.