C3’s volunteering programme recap: Ukrainian National Women’s League of America in the US

I spent the first week in New York helping with preparations for UNWLA’s Centennial Celebration at the historic Bohemian National Hall. The organisation was marking 100 years of Ukrainian women’s leadership, service, and cultural preservation. I helped set up the venue, arranging decorations, posters, and banners, and on the day of the event I welcomed guests and handed out programs outlining the schedule (practicing my Ukrainian along the way.) One of the most special moments was hearing a message from President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, recognising UNWLA’s century of courage and solidarity, and the impact it has had on Ukrainian communities worldwide.

The highlight of the celebration was “A Legacy in Motion”, a theatrical production following the journeys of generations of Ukrainian women, from the organisation’s founding to its ongoing humanitarian work today. The day ended with a reception featuring drinks and delicious food from Veselka, a restaurant that has long been a beloved part of New York’s Ukrainian community for generations. I had the chance to meet people from across the U.S. and hear their stories, leaving me feeling connected, and proud to be part of such a strong community.

The second week took me to Washington, D.C., for the Ukraine Action Summit, where over 700 advocates from all 50 U.S. states came together to meet with Congress and push for continued support for Ukraine. The five day event included panel discussions, musical performances, film screenings, and advocacy training, all leading up to meetings on Capitol Hill. The discussions focused on the return of abducted Ukrainian children, stronger sanctions against Russia, and long-term security guarantees.

During the summit, I helped with a variety of tasks including designing banners, managing slides for speakers, preparing folders and name tags for delegates, and checking people in each day, all while meeting many passionate people who dedicate so much of their time and energy to helping Ukraine. The closing event at Ukraine House was especially powerful. We heard from veterans and parents who had lost children serving in the war, hearing stories of unimaginable loss and courage. In true Ukrainian fashion to end the day, we shared a meal of traditional dishes including borsch, varenyky, deruny, and medovik. This brought comfort and a sense of togetherness despite the sadness and was a powerful reminder of both the human cost of the war and the resilience and solidarity that continue to unite Ukrainians around the world.