The Architects Foundation is proud to announce the launch of its Call for Applications for the 2027 Design Assistance Team (DAT) program.  This webinar will provide an overview of the DAT program and the 2027 application cycle, a description of the application process and selection criteria, and an opportunity for Q&A.  The webinar will also highlight the case study of Port Angeles, Washington to demonstrate how the process can be leveraged for community impact. Port Angeles City Manager Nathan West will share his experience in hosting a Design Assistance Team as well as his perspective from having served on teams for other communities. Port Angeles hosted a DAT process in 2009 to build a revitalization strategy following the closure of local mills and economic challenges with the downtown. The community leveraged the momentum from its process to spark a wave of revitalization with civic pride, volunteerism, and investment that carries on today.  Port Angeles was ranked #2 in Outside Magazine's 16 Best Places to Live in the US. In August 2026, the bi-partisan Brookings-AEI Commission on U.S. Rural Prosperity recognized the city, declaring that "Port Angeles is pointing the way for rural America."