Uniting for a Common Cause:
The Birth of the American Coalition of Ukrainian Organizations
In a world marked by diversity and fragmentation, initiatives to bring communities together are paramount. Recently, the Ukrainian Culture Center of Los Angeles, in conjunction with several nonprofit organizations, spearheaded a remarkable effort to create a cohesive alliance. This historic move gave rise to the American Coalition of Ukrainian Organizations (ACUO) which was formed 365 days after the full scale russian invasion of Ukraine.
A Shared Vision
The Ukrainian Culture Center in Los Angeles, in its visionary approach, saw an opportunity to create a united front where Ukrainian organizations could not only amplify their efforts but also harness the benefits of economies of scale in humanitarian endeavors. ACUO is not merely a union of organizations; but also a strategic collaboration aimed at achieving cultural preservation, community engagement, and humanitarian objectives by leveraging each organization’s expertise. ACUO's inception was driven by a deep-seeded desire to not only support victory against russian aggression in Ukraine but also to engage the community in meaningful ways. Recognizing that the challenges faced by the Ukrainian community were not limited by geographical boundaries, this coalition has transcended regional divides. Tapping into the power of collective action and allowing organizations to pool resources allows for maxmum impact.
Within ACUO, the power of shared experiences and stories in volunteerism has become a driving force in the diaspora’s support of Ukraine. Members find inspiration in hearing each other's narratives, learning from their collective experiences, and leveraging this wealth of knowledge to elevate their volunteer efforts. Additionally, the coalition provides a platform for organizations to support one another in terms of resources and marketing, further magnifying their reach and influence. In essence, ACUO symbolized more than just a collaboration; it represented a strategic and unified approach to achieving common goals.
Strength in Numbers
The process of establishing the American Coalition of Ukrainian Organizations (ACUO) began with extensive outreach efforts, wherein representatives from diverse nonprofit organizations were invited to the table. This inclusivity fostered a rich dialogue and deepened mutual understanding among stakeholders, transcending geographical and organizational boundaries. The ethos of 'bridge, connect, unite' and 'helping each other help Ukraine' became emblematic of ACUO's mission and approach. These taglines encapsulated the organization's commitment to creating bridges of communication, connecting resources and expertise, and uniting for a common cause.
Ukraine in its struggle. Whether it's financial acumen, strategic planning, or marketing prowess, these members of the coalition leverage their private sector experience to make a tangible impact on the fight for Ukraine. As ACUO gains momentum, its vision extends beyond the boundaries of Ukrainian organizations. The coalition aims to collaborate with other diverse cultural and nonprofit organizations, fostering multicultural exchange and enriching the tapestry of American society. By forging strong relationships across various communities, ACUO believes in a future marked by unity, diversity, and shared aspirations.
As of today, the American Coalition of Ukrainian Organizations (ACUO) stands strong with the active participation of 25 organizations, primarily concentrated on the West Coast of the United States. However, this is just the beginning of our journey. The overarching goal is to expand the coalition’s reach and increase our influence, fostering a truly nationwide network. The vision is to include organizations from the Midwest to the East Coast, thereby transforming ACUO into an entity with the potential to shape Ukrainian American policy and significantly amplify its capacity to provide essential aid and resources to Ukraine and its people. This expansion represents a pivotal step forward, positioning ACUO as a prominent player on the national stage. It's a testament to our commitment to supporting Ukraine's path to victory and European integration.
By encompassing organizations from diverse regions of the United States, we aim to create a powerful collective voice advocating for Ukraine's interests and working towards positive change. As we continue to grow and evolve, ACUO's mission remains steadfast: to bridge communities, connect resources, and unite professionals from various backgrounds in a shared commitment to helping Ukraine. With this expanded reach, we look forward to the day when our coalition's impact is felt not only within our communities but also on the global stage, as we contribute to the ongoing journey of Ukraine towards victory and full European integration. To learn more about ACUO and to join us, please visit www.acuo-4ua.org
Written by Simakovski, German
Founder of “Go Ukraina”
Founding ACUO member