About UAWS

Who we are

Founded in 1971 by Ukrainian immigrants, the Ukrainian Association of Washington State (UAWS) emerged as a pivotal force in promoting Ukrainian culture in the Pacific Northwest. Initially known as The Ukrainian American Club of Washington, it was established with a threefold mission: to advocate for Ukraine, educate U.S. communities about the hardships endured under Soviet occupation, and celebrate Ukrainian heritage. Over five decades, UAWS evolved into a dynamic 501(c)(3) non-profit organization, becoming one of Ukraine’s oldest cultural diplomacy vehicles.

The association remained committed to its founding principles through dedication and periodic reinvention. In 2010, UAWS achieved a significant milestone by becoming a tax-exempt organization under IRS Code Section 501(c)(3) in Washington State. This legal recognition further solidified its dedication to serving the Ukrainian-American community. With its newfound legal status, UAWS has expanded its reach, offering diverse programs to enhance cultural awareness and foster unity among Ukrainians throughout the United States, ensuring a lasting legacy for generations to come.

Throughout these years, we established our local dance ensemble, “Barvinok,” and choir, “Serpanok.” These artistic ensembles have helped spread awareness of our beautiful culture through various concerts and festivals. 

Response to the Russian Invasion

Since the Russian invasion in 2014, UAWS has played an active role in helping and supplying aid to Ukraine. After Russia’s full-scale invasion of Ukraine on February 24, 2022, UAWS quickly adapted and expanded our humanitarian aid capabilities, pivoting to a humanitarian hub to collect, pack, and send emergency food, clothes, and emergency medical supplies for civilians and hospitals in Ukraine. We teamed up with Medical Teams Worldwide to help and supply aid to Ukraine.

In light of the full-scale Russian aggression, in 2022, we established a humanitarian hub and have assisted Ukrainians affected by the war within and abroad through various humanitarian initiatives.

Advocating on behalf of Ukraine

We work with members of the Ukrainian community and supporters across Washington to plan and organize public events, such as rallies and demonstrations, that show solidarity with Ukraine and raise awareness about the ongoing war.

Our Mission

Our mission is to preserve and celebrate Ukrainian heritage as the unifying link among Ukrainian-Americans throughout the U.S. We are dedicated to promoting interest in and knowledge of Ukraine through diverse social, cultural, and educational programs that engage and unite Ukrainians of all ages and backgrounds. By fostering a strong, interconnected community, we aim to enrich our cultural legacy for future generations.

Our Vision

Our vision is to create a vibrant, unified Ukrainian-American community across Washington State, celebrating and preserving our cultural heritage through engaging social, cultural, and educational programs. We aim to inspire future generations to cherish and continue our rich traditions.

Meet our team

Oleksandr Senyuk

Treasurer

Tanya Zayka

Board Member, Nonprofit Fundraiser

UAWS Advocacy

The UAWS Advocacy was formed in 2014 as a response to the Russian invasion in the eastern parts of Ukraine, which threatens the integrity of a democratic country’s borders, as well as the Ukrainian community’s concern over the humanitarian and economic situations.

UAWS Advocacy activists meet weekly with government representatives to champion Ukrainian issues to Washington State’s Congress members. We assist in organizing public events, rallies, and demonstrations and communicate with the media to ensure coverage. We show solidarity with Ukraine and raise awareness about the ongoing Russian war.

Tetiana Petruk

Volunteers

UAWS is incredibly proud of our volunteers, many of whom sacrifice their time and resources to help Ukraine. They contribute to our vibrant community and are making a real impact on promoting Ukraine’s needs.

Ivanka Gomilko

Graphic Designer

Iryna Sh

Event Assistant