Our Mission
To advance the science of occupational therapy to support people’s full participation in meaningful life activities.
The American Occupational Therapy Foundation advances the science of occupational therapy so that every person, regardless of age or ability, can live a meaningful and independent life, participating in the activities that matter to them.
Our Vision
Enhancing health for all people through meaningful participation in everyday life.
We envision a vibrant science that builds knowledge to support effective, evidence-based occupational therapy.
Who We Are
Established in 1965, AOTF is an independent 501(c)(3) charitable, scientific, and educational organization. We serve as the premier resource for occupational therapy research and scholarship, working alongside researchers, educators, practitioners, community partners, and students to build evidence-based practice that improves lives.
As the only foundation dedicated exclusively to advancing occupational therapy science, we bridge the critical gap between innovative research and real-world practice. Our work ensures that occupational therapy interventions are grounded in rigorous scientific evidence, ultimately improving outcomes for millions of people worldwide.
Articles on the early history of AOTF:
- Yerxa, E.J. (1967). The American Occupational Therapy Foundation was born. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 21, 299-300
- (1975). The Foundation: The first decade: 1965-1975. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy, 29, 636-641
- Yerxa, E.J., Gilfoyle, E. (1976) Research Seminar. The American Journal of Occupational Therapy 30. 509-514
How We Drive Impact
Advancing OT Research
Research Funding: Funding innovative studies that advance occupational therapy practice
Academy of Research: Honoring distinguished scholars leading innovation
Awards and Honors: Recognizing outstanding contributions to OT science
Expanding Access to Education
Scholarships: Providing financial support to future occupational therapy leaders
Continuing Education: Offering resources for lifelong learning and professional development
Evidence-Based Practice Resources: Translating research findings into practical applications
Disseminating Research and Insights
OTJR: Occupational Therapy Journal of Research: Publishing peer-reviewed research
Research Resources Library: Curated collection of funding, training and dissemination toolkits
Research Colloquiums: Hosting annual gatherings for knowledge exchange and networking
Our Impact At-a-glance
practitioners supported
Scholarship Program Impact
available in scholarship awards
States & DC partnered with AOTF
Why Your Support Matters
All AOTF mission activities rely on philanthropic efforts. Your donation to AOTF contributes directly to:
Advancing breakthrough research that improves patient outcomes
Developing evidence-based interventions for pressing healthcare challenges
Supporting talented students pursuing careers in occupational therapy
Empowering people of all abilities to live fuller, more independent lives
Bolstering research capacity and participation opportunities
Closing the gap in funding for early-stage research studies
Join Our Community
Connect With Us
Receive OT research news in your inbox.
By submitting this form, you are consenting to receive marketing emails from: AOTF, 12300 Twinbrook Pkwy., Ste. 520, Rockville, MD, 20852, US, https://www.aotf.org. You can revoke your consent to receive emails at any time by using the SafeUnsubscribe® link, found at the bottom of every email. Emails are serviced by Constant Contact.