Confirmed
Advocacy Leader
Oleks Taran
President, Svitanok NY
Ukrainian Advocacy Leader, Community organizer mobilizing New York's Ukrainian diaspora through advocacy, cultural programming, and civic action.
The Future of Ukrainian-American Leadership Starts Here
Ukrainian Community
Impact & Civic Gala
Celebrating Leadership, Advocacy & Influence.
Building the Next Chapter of the Ukrainian-American Civic Ecosystem.
An exclusive leadership gathering uniting the people shaping the future of the Ukrainian-American community. Community leaders, business executives, diplomats, elected officials, nonprofit organizations, philanthropists, cultural ambassadors, media, and advocates will come together to strengthen civic infrastructure, expand strategic partnerships, support Ukraine, and build long-term influence across the United States.
09.20.26Chicago, IL
Organized by
In collaboration with
The Mandate
Our strength extends beyond identity. We are an ecosystem of leadership, transforming individual initiatives into coordinated national impact.
Unite the Ukrainian-American community as a coordinated civic force.
The Ukrainian community in America is no longer only cultural or humanitarian. It is a growing civic force - businesses, media, nonprofits, churches, advocacy leaders, donors, veterans organizations, cultural ambassadors, and a new generation of leaders - ready to organize, coordinate, and act together.
- ◆Coordinate business, nonprofit, media, and advocacy efforts
- ◆Strengthen democratic values and support for Ukraine
- ◆Build durable Ukrainian-American civic infrastructure
Civic Infrastructure
Building stronger Ukrainian-American institutions that endure across generations.
Strategic Advocacy
Strengthening informed civic engagement and public awareness at the highest levels.
Cultural Diplomacy
Showcasing Ukraine’s identity through modern culture, art, and public dialogue.
Philanthropy
Supporting sustainable nonprofit initiatives across the community.
Featured voices
Leaders on stage
A first look at the officials, advocates, and community figures joining the gala.
Confirmed
Media Entrepreneur & Ukraine Advocate
Jed Sunden
President American Ukraine PAC
Founder of the Kyiv Post and American Ukraine PAC, advancing bipartisan U.S. support for Ukraine through media, advocacy, and congressional engagement.
Confirmed
Civic & Faith Leader
Nazar Melnychuk
Svitanok NY Leadership
Ukrainian-American civic and faith leader advancing grassroots advocacy, community engagement, and strategic partnerships across New York.
Confirmed
Community Leader
Alex Balbus
President, Ukrainian Roots Community
Founder of URC Radio; entrepreneur building infrastructure for Ukrainian-American civic influence.
01 / Open seat
Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Stand Among the Visionaries
Claim your place →Invitation open
Step Into Leadership: Your Impact Starts Here
Join a network of visionary leaders dedicated to shaping a lasting impact on our community.
02 / Open seat
Your Seat Awaits: Shape the Future With Us
Claim your place →Invitation open
Lead the Change: Join Our Esteemed Circle
Stand with influential changemakers and amplify your leadership impact where it matters most.
03 / Open seat
Join the Circle of Influence: Be a Change Maker
Claim your place →Invitation open
Your Influence Belongs Here: Be a Catalyst
Position yourself among the driving forces of change—your influence is vital to our collective success.
04 / Open seat
Unlock Impact: Lead the Next Chapter
Claim your place →Invitation open
Forge Your Legacy: Stand with Leaders
Seize this opportunity to collaborate with trailblazers and co-create tomorrow's impact today.
05 / Open seat
Be the Voice: Shape the Future Together
Claim your place →Invitation open
Be the Voice: Shape the Future Together
This is where leadership meets purpose—join us and elevate your voice at the forefront of change.
06 / Open seat
Test
Claim your place →Invitation open
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Test
Section · Event Positioning
A hybrid civic-cultural-philanthropic gala with a compliance-conscious structure
The evening is organized as two clearly separated tracks. The public gala is nonpartisan and community-focused. The private PAC reception is invitation-only and independently hosted.
Nonpartisan · 501(c)(3)
Hosted by
- URC Life / Ukrainian Roots Community
- Svitanok.ny 501(c)(3)
A nonpartisan community, civic education, cultural, philanthropic, and leadership event - open to sponsors, partners, and community guests.
Focus of the public program
- ◆Ukrainian-American civic leadership
- ◆Community infrastructure and coordination
- ◆Support for Ukraine
- ◆Ukrainian Adjustment Act awareness
- ◆Cultural diplomacy and exchange
- ◆Unity of Ukrainian business and nonprofits
- ◆Veterans support
- ◆Donor and sponsor engagement
- ◆Long-term Ukrainian-American influence
Proceeds support Ukrainian-American civic education, community infrastructure, advocacy awareness, cultural diplomacy, and nonprofit programming.
Confirmed voices
Distinguished Participants
A curated circle of leaders, advocates, and cultural voices confirmed for the gathering.
(00)
01 / Open seat
Unlock Your Leadership Potential: Stand Among the Visionaries
Claim your place →Invitation open
Step Into Leadership: Your Impact Starts Here
Join a network of visionary leaders dedicated to shaping a lasting impact on our community.
02 / Open seat
Your Seat Awaits: Shape the Future With Us
Claim your place →Invitation open
Lead the Change: Join Our Esteemed Circle
Stand with influential changemakers and amplify your leadership impact where it matters most.
03 / Open seat
Join the Circle of Influence: Be a Change Maker
Claim your place →Invitation open
Your Influence Belongs Here: Be a Catalyst
Position yourself among the driving forces of change—your influence is vital to our collective success.
04 / Open seat
Unlock Impact: Lead the Next Chapter
Claim your place →Invitation open
Forge Your Legacy: Stand with Leaders
Seize this opportunity to collaborate with trailblazers and co-create tomorrow's impact today.
05 / Open seat
Be the Voice: Shape the Future Together
Claim your place →Invitation open
Be the Voice: Shape the Future Together
This is where leadership meets purpose—join us and elevate your voice at the forefront of change.
06 / Open seat
Test
Claim your place →Invitation open
test
Test
No profiles yet
No participants in this category yet.
Section 03 / Convening
A gathering of
leaders
The Gala convenes distinguished representatives from across the Ukrainian-American ecosystem. It is an evening where meaningful relationships become long-term partnerships, and where collective presence translates into national influence.
By the numbers
15+Leadership categories
40+Partner organizations
1Evening. One vision.
Who convenes
01
Community Leaders
Directors of Ukrainian-American institutions and civic organizations.
02
Diplomats
Consular and diplomatic representatives building bilateral ties.
03
Public Officials
U.S. congressional and municipal leaders advancing policy.
04
Business Executives
Founders and CEOs strengthening cross-Atlantic commerce.
05
Philanthropists
Individuals and foundations investing in long-term impact.
06
Veterans Leaders
Advocates supporting service members and post-service care.
07
Faith & Cultural
Clergy, artists, and cultural ambassadors shaping identity.
08
Media Executives
Producers, editors, and platforms carrying the narrative.
09
Young Civic Leaders
The next generation of Ukrainian-American influence.
Section 02 / Context
Why this gala matters
The Ukrainian-American community has entered a new era. Today, our strength extends far beyond cultural identity - we represent a growing ecosystem of civic influence across the United States.
◆Community Leadership
◆Entrepreneurship & Business
◆Civic Engagement
◆Media & Communications
◆Education
◆Philanthropy
◆Veterans Support
◆Cultural Diplomacy
◆Advocacy
◆Public Service
Together, we are transforming individual initiatives into coordinated national impact.
Section 04 / Distinction
What makes this event different
01
Civic Leadership
Building stronger Ukrainian-American institutions.
02
Community Infrastructure
Connecting organizations, businesses and initiatives.
03
Advocacy
Strengthening informed civic engagement and public awareness.
04
Philanthropy
Supporting sustainable nonprofit initiatives.
05
Cultural Diplomacy
Showcasing Ukraine's identity through modern culture.
06
Strategic Collaboration
Creating partnerships that extend well beyond a single evening.
Our Shared Values
Connected. Professional. Purpose-driven.
IntegrityLegacyServiceExcellenceUnity
Strategic Collaboration
Strategic collaboration
Organizations underwriting the evening and its long-term civic impact.
Section 05 / Program
Evening Schedule
5:30 PM
Leadership Welcome Reception
Private reception for confirmed civic leaders, diplomatic guests, sponsors, host committee members, speakers, and cultural ambassadors.
6:00 PM
Guest Arrival, Red Carpet & Networking
Media wall, partner photo area, sponsor recognition, Ukrainian art and culture display, welcome drinks, guest registration, and press interviews.
6:45 PM
Opening Cultural Moment
Ukrainian and American anthems, symbolic cultural performance, blessing by clergy, and a moment of remembrance for Ukraine's defenders and civilians.
7:00 PM
Official Opening
Why this event matters, why civic influence matters now, and why unity between business, nonprofits, media, culture, advocacy, and donors is essential.
URC Life & Svitanok.ny / Host Organizations
7:10 PM
Diplomatic Welcome
Ukraine-U.S. partnership, the role of the diaspora, gratitude to American society, and the importance of an organized Ukrainian-American community.
Consul General Kostiantyn Vorona / Consulate General of Ukraine
7:20 PM
Community Infrastructure Presentation
URC Life / UA Portal, community coordination, media infrastructure, event and resource ecosystem, advocacy awareness, and Ukrainian Adjustment Act education.
Alex Balbus & Svitanok.ny / URC Life / Svitanok.ny
7:35 PM
Senator Dick Durbin Remarks
Legacy of public service, democratic values, support for Ukraine, immigrant communities, and the future of Ukrainian-American civic engagement.
Senator Dick Durbin / U.S. Senate
7:55 PM
Future Leadership & Congressional Perspective
A moderated, issue-based conversation on the future of Ukrainian-American civic engagement and U.S.-Ukraine relations.
8:10 PM
Policy & Civic Strategy Conversation
How Ukrainian-Americans can build long-term bipartisan political influence: PACs, campaign finance, advocacy vs. political activity, and professional representation.
Jed Sunden / Policy Strategist
8:30 PM
Community Impact Voices
Short remarks from Revived Soldiers Ukraine, Ukrainian House / UA House, clergy, Ukrainian business, and cultural ambassadors - the full ecosystem of veterans, faith, culture, business, advocacy, and media.
8:50 PM
Cultural Demonstration & Exchange
A high-impact musical performance and cultural visual moment connecting civic influence with Ukrainian identity - art, fashion, poetry, and cross-cultural exchange.
9:15 PM
Nonprofit Mission Appeal
Proceeds from the public gala support Ukrainian-American civic education, community infrastructure, advocacy awareness, cultural diplomacy, and nonprofit programming.
9:40 PM
Closing & Next Steps
Follow-up advocacy briefing, donor circle, community leadership council, media recap, partner coordination platform, and next community action steps.
10:00 PM
Networking, Media & Photos
Informal networking and partner conversations.
Entertainment Track
A curated program of art, music & story
Announce the artists confirmed for the evening, preview the official visual identity, watch the invitation video, and revisit prior editions. The full lineup is finalized closer to the event.
Open Call · Artistic Review
Join the Stage —
perform for an audience of influence
The Gala convenes senators, ambassadors, philanthropists, CEOs, and cultural leaders. We are curating a limited number of performances that honor Ukrainian artistry and elevate the evening's civic tone. Submissions are reviewed by our artistic direction team.
- ◆Reviewed by the URC Life artistic direction team
- ◆Confirmed acts receive full production support
- ◆Travel and honorarium considered case by case
- ◆Reference number issued on submission
Photographer, videographer, or agency instead? Apply through the Creator Partners application.
Apply as Creative Partner →Section · Compliance & Disclosures
Two tracks. One clear line between them.
The public gala and the private PAC reception are organized, ticketed, checked in, and accounted for separately. The disclosures below explain how each track is treated.
Track 1 · Public Civic Gala
Nonprofit · 501(c)(3) · Nonpartisan
- Organizer. URC Life / Ukrainian Roots Community with Svitanok.ny 501(c)(3).
- Tax status. Contributions may be tax-deductible to the extent allowed by law, after deducting the fair market value of goods and services received. Svitanok.ny will provide a written acknowledgment.
- Political activity. The public gala does not endorse, oppose, or contribute to any candidate, party, or campaign, and does not engage in partisan political activity.
- Use of funds. Net proceeds support Ukrainian-American civic education, community infrastructure, cultural diplomacy, veterans support, and nonprofit programming.
- Data & privacy. Registration information is used only for event operations and program communications, consistent with the Privacy Policy.
Track 2 · Private PAC Reception
Political · Invitation only · Not tax-deductible
- Organizer. Hosted independently by American Ukraine PAC and/or the official candidate campaign committee - not by URC Life or Svitanok.ny.
- Tax status. Political contributions are not tax-deductible for federal income tax purposes.
- Eligibility. U.S. citizens and lawful permanent residents only, contributing personal funds. Prohibited: foreign nationals (other than lawful permanent residents), federal contractors, and corporate treasury funds. Individual contribution limits apply.
- Public reporting. Contributions may be reportable to the FEC or applicable state authorities and may appear in public campaign finance filings as required by law.
- Separation. Track 2 uses separate hosts, invitations, ticketing/contribution processing, check-in, and accounting from the 501(c)(3) public gala.
This page provides general information and is not legal, tax, or campaign finance advice. Please consult your own advisor for guidance specific to your situation. Nothing on this page constitutes a solicitation of political contributions from persons not eligible to give under U.S. law.
Section · Frequently Asked Questions
Answers to the most-asked questions
The evening runs two clearly separated tracks. Use the tabs below to see the questions most relevant to how you plan to participate.
The gala is open to sponsors, partners, community leaders, business executives, diplomats, public officials, philanthropists, cultural ambassadors, media, and invited community guests. It is a nonpartisan community, civic, cultural, and philanthropic event.
Support / Donate
Your support builds lasting influence
Civic infrastructure is not built by a single evening — it is built by sustained commitment. Every contribution funds leadership programs, humanitarian aid for Ukraine, cultural continuity for the next generation, and the advocacy capacity our community needs to be heard across the United States.
URC Corp, NFP is a registered nonprofit with Platinum Transparency recognition on Candid — the highest level of public accountability for how funds are raised and used.
Verified Transparency
Platinum Level on Candid
URC Corp, NFP (EIN 99-3142362) holds the Candid Platinum Transparency Seal — awarded to organizations that publicly share their goals, strategies, governance, financials and measurable results.
- Public financials & governance disclosure
- Documented program outcomes
- Independent third-party verification
Impact highlights
12,000+
Community members reached
Civic education, legal clinics and newcomer support across Illinois and beyond.
$1.4M
Humanitarian aid delivered
Medical supplies, evacuation and rebuilding support through verified partners in Ukraine.
40+
Leaders placed on public stages
Officials, founders and advocates elevated into rooms where policy is decided.
100%
Public financial disclosure
Platinum Transparency on Candid — every program and dollar open to review.
Section / Sponsorship & Donor Positioning
Public Gala sponsorship levels
Sponsorship supports the civic, community, and nonprofit dimensions of the Public Gala. Every level is structured around recognition, visibility, and community positioning — never political access or candidate influence.
Level 01
Community Supporter
Entry-level individual support
Individual ticket / small donor
Included recognition & benefits
- Single seat at the Public Gala
- Name listed in the community supporters section of the digital program
- Post-event thank-you communication
Sponsor benefits may include
- Recognition across gala materials
- Table placement and seating priority
- Media visibility and post-event coverage
- Logo placement on signage and website
- Program mention (printed and digital)
- Cultural and community positioning
- Inclusion in the post-event impact report
Sponsor benefits do not include
- Private access to any Senator
- Private access to any candidate
- Campaign influence of any kind
- Political endorsement
- Candidate support language or positioning
The Public Gala is a civic and community event. All sponsorship recognition is strictly non-political and complies with the separation between the Public Gala (Track 1) and any Private PAC or candidate reception (Track 2).
Sponsorship inquiry
Apply for Community Supporter
Selected level: Level 01 · Community Supporter · Individual ticket / small donor. Change the level from the tabs above.
Section 07 / Your Invitation
Your invitation to lead
Your presence is more than attendance. It is a contribution to a stronger, more connected Ukrainian-American community. This evening is reserved for those ready to help shape what comes next.
01
Distinguished Guest
02
Community Leader
03
Diplomatic Representative
04
Public Official
05
Business Executive
06
Sponsor
07
Partner Organization
08
Cultural Ambassador
09
Philanthropist
10
Host Committee
Section 08 / Together
Building the future - together
Connected.Professional.Collaborative.Influential.Purpose-Driven.
We look forward to welcoming you as part of this important milestone in Ukrainian-American civic leadership.
Confirm Attendance
Confirm Attendance
By invitation only. Please provide your professional credentials for the host committee.
Attendee
Guests, Sponsors, Speakers & Leaders
Confirm your attendance and share the details we need to prepare a seat, credentials, and program materials tailored to your role.
Press · Media
Journalists, Photographers & Broadcasters
Apply for press credentials, submit your outlet details, and request access to the red carpet and dedicated media positions.
Creator Partners
Videographers, Agencies & Social
Introduce your team, share your portfolio, and apply to become an official creative production partner for the Gala.
Contact
Get in touch
For sponsorship inquiries, press credentials, or general questions about the gala, our team is available at the addresses below.
- info@urclife.org
- Phone
- +1 (888) 555-1234
- Partnerships
- partnerships@urclife.org