Arizona Forward is a unique public interest organization that has influenced quality of life and environmental decisions for more than four decades.. Arizona Forward brings leaders from across the state together to encourage cooperative efforts to improve the sustainability and vitality of the Grand Canyon State. Our collective influence will make a difference to ensure healthy communities through smart growth and development, efficient transportation, improved air quality, responsible water management, energy alternatives and meaningful education throughout Arizona. The Association advocates a balance between economic development and environmental quality. Its diverse membership mix includes large and small businesses and various jurisdictions of government, representing some 250 organizations and tens of thousands of employees working together to help shape our local communities. This includes some of ArizonaÍs largest employers and some of its smallest, industrial and manufacturing sectors, municipalities and other government agencies, educators, non-profit organizations and individual concerned citizens. A non-profit 501(c)(3) organization, Arizona Forward was initiated as Valley Forward in 1969 through a merger of the Phoenix Development Association, Mid-Town Improvement Association, Valley Beautiful Citizens Council and the Maricopa County Taxpayers Association and operated in Maricopa County until officially transitioning to Arizona Forward in 2013.