A presentation and dedication of the new Ukrainian Community Center was held in Palatine, Illinois. The event brought together community representatives, clergy, youth, families with children, and guests. The new space is being created as a center for Ukrainian life, culture, education, and community interaction.
This was reported by Radio UA Chicago / Surma Newspaper.
According to the organizers, the future center should become a place created to unite people, create new opportunities, preserve Ukrainian culture, and strengthen the idea that “Stronger Together.”
The festive program began with the performance of the National Anthem of the United States of America and the National Anthem of Ukraine performed by Olga Tsvintarna. After that, the priests present blessed the new space. Bishop Benedict Alexiychuk participated in the event, who blessed the center.
During the presentation, it was emphasized that the new community center will become not just a building, but a place of unity, strength and another center of cultural, spiritual and social life of Ukrainians in the Chicago suburbs.
The new center includes six classrooms for language, art and educational programs. It is also planned to equip a dance studio, an exhibition hall to honor artistic heritage, a multi-purpose hall with a stage for concerts and celebrations, a kitchen for community meals and workshops, as well as a recreation area for visitors of all ages.
Selfreliance Federal Credit Union and Selfreliance Foundation joined the project. Organizers announced that each donation made from the Selfreliance account in support of the project will be doubled by Selfreliance FCU - dollar for dollar - up to $250,000.
Organizers say the center will support Ukrainian-American families in preserving their heritage, strengthening community ties, and accessing important services. The space will also serve as a place of support for newly arrived Ukrainians and development for all generations.
The opening featured a musical performance by the Alvia bandura trio. Guests were also treated to refreshments, a photo booth, and a tour of the facility.
The organizing committee thanked everyone who attended the presentation, supported the project, and contributed to the creation of the new center. The community emphasized that the new building will contribute to the future of Ukrainians in the heart of Palatine.
Background
The Ukrainian community in Palatine has been actively developing for over 50 years. The center of community life has become the Ukrainian Youth of America (YUMA), which has been operating here since 1968 and unites generations of Ukrainian families, preserving the language, culture, and traditions. Hundreds of children participate in language classes, dance programs, sports, cultural and social activities every week.
The first community space in Palatine operated in a small building on the community’s property. In 1975, a new two-story center with a multi-purpose hall, kitchen and classrooms was completed, and in 2008–2009 the premises were expanded due to the growing number of participants.
After a new wave of emigration caused by the war in Ukraine, the community again faced a lack of space. That is why the decision was made to purchase the neighboring building and transform it into a new Ukrainian Community Center, which will be used by the Ukrainian Studies School, youth organizations and art groups.
Photo: Petro Kovtun
Author: Danylo Pievchev