Who We Are

AboutFace International was established in Toronto, Canada in 1985. Our vision is to foster acceptance of those with facial disfigurements and to inspire others to embrace the person behind the face.  

AboutFace is dedicated to working with and on behalf of 1.5 Million Canadian children, adults and families living with facial differences.  Our vision is sustained by our belief that all people regardless of their physical appearance have much to contribute. Through education, information, support and outreach, we can inspire the world to look beyond differences to see the possibilities in every person.

To achieve our mission, our work is focused on four key areas:

1. Personal Enrichment & Skills Development
   Objective:  To empower and encourage affected individuals and their families to take responsibility for their life circumstances including treatment plans, social interaction and future opportunities; by helping them to develop personal and social skills through training, educational programs and mentoring.
2. Health Care & Community Outreach
   Objective: To establish a community presence and local service networks using organization members, through our Community Rep Program; and to enhance our community partnerships with treatment centers for networking and information dissemination.
3. Information Services & Publications
   Objective: To publish and disseminate information, publications, booklets and other resources related to syndromes, conditions and other issues related to living with a facial difference.
4. Public Awareness & Education
   Objective: To increase awareness and understanding of those with facial differences in the general public, media, schools and broader community.