SOARING TOGETHER
Mission
To help our members and our community achieve financial success by providing them with the highest level of personalized service.
Vision
Ukrainian Federal Credit Union will be the financial provider of choice for our members and will be one of the leading Credit Unions in the USA.
Our brand will be recognized for:
• Exceptional service;
• The newest digital features for an outstanding member experience;
• Being a great workplace for employees;
• A resource for our members to learn and share;
• A community outreach process that supports our common bond membership.
Our Values
• Caring Culture
• Open Communication
• Superior Service
• Personalized Solutions
Кредитна Спілка має за мету стати головною фінансовою установою для наших членів і бути одним з лідерів серед кредитних спілок США.
Наша відмінність полягатиме в:
• Найкращій якості обслуговування, знаннях та
досвіді;
• Найновіших цифрових
можливостях;
• Найкращому робочому місці для співробітників;
• Ресурсі для наших членів, щоб вчитися і ділитися
досвідом;
• Процесі співпраці та підтримки громади. Наші Цінності
• Дбайливе
2024 ANNUAL MEMBER MEETING
Board of Directors
President & Board Chairman / Wasyl Kornylo
Treasurer / Barbara Tymoc-Gutierrez
Secretary / Dr. Evhen Lylak
1st Vice President / Yaroslav Fatyak
2nd Vice President / Bohdan Zakharchyshyn
Board Member / Tamara Denysenko
Board Member / Olga Kovaliov, CPA
Associate Board Member / Rostislav Melnik
Board Member Emeritus / Myron Babiuk
Honorary Board Members / Yaroslav Kirik, Jurij Kushner, Myron Babiuk
Supervisory Committee
PO Box 17022, Rochester, NY 14617
Chair / Dr. George Hajduczok
Members / Vasiliy W. Gritsyuta, Ihor Levkiv, Nicolas Boberskyj, CPA
Community Relations Committee
Chair / Tamara Denysenko
Members / Yaroslav Fatyak, Bohdan Zakharchyshyn, Alexander Oryshkevych
Executive Staff
Chief Executive Officer / Oleg Lebedko
Chief Operating Officer / Tanya Dashkevich
Chief Financial Officer / Oleksa Nowosiadlo, CPA
Chief Lending Officer / Maria Milazzo
Chief Information Officer / James Frey, CISM, CRISC, CISO
Chief Human Resources Officer / Kelly Nield, CUHRCP
Management Team
eServices Manager / Mariya Nolan, CEBO
Compliance Officer / Kaitlin Crilow
Marketing Manager / Alexander Oryshkevych, CUCME
Regional Branch Manager for Rochester & Webster / Galina Dyakiv
Syracuse Branch Manager / Irina Dobyuk
Regional Branch Manager for Citrus Heights & Rancho Cordova / Mikhail Tkach
Boston Branch Coordinator / Nataliia Stashevska
Regional Operations Manager / Sophia Kenn
Federal Way Branch Manager / Oksana Pierce
Parma Osnova Branch Manager / Maryana Rybay
Charlotte Branch Manager / Tatyana Shishkovskiy
Regional Branch Manager for Portland & Vancouver / Volodymyr Kovalyshyn
Spartanburg Branch Manager / Nataliya Chey
Editorial Staff
Editor-in-chief / Alexander Oryshkevych
Editors / Alisa Stetsyshyn, Kateryna Yakushchenko, Oleg Lebedko
Photo Credit / Iryna Kurbatova, Anna Krasnova, Alex Fedorchuk, Julian D'Andre
Layout & Graphic Design / Sukhenko Design
Ukrainian-American Community Foundation, Inc.
Chair / Dr. Evhen Lylak
Treasurer / Tamara Denysenko
Secretary / Alexander Oryshkevych
1st Vice President / Barbara Tymoc-Gutierrez
2nd Vice President / Wasyl Kornylo
Members / Galina Dyakiv, Yaroslav Fatyak, Volodymyr Otvarukhin, Bohdan Zakharchyshyn
2023 ANNUAL REPORT / 2023
President's Report
WASYL KORNYLO | PRESIDENT & BOARD CHAIRMAN |
Dear Members,
As we reflect on the past year, we are proud to share the progress and accomplishments of our credit union. Despite the challenges posed by the global socio-economic landscape, Ukrainian Federal Credit Union (UFCU) remained steadfast in its commitment to serving our community.
FINANCIAL PERFORMANCE AND HIGHLIGHTS
n Assets: Our total assets surpassed $390 million, a testament to our financial stability and prudent management.
n Membership: We proudly serve over 27,000 members across the United States.
n Branch Network: UFCU operates 14 full-service branch offices, providing convenient access to financial services.
n Common Bond Organizations: Membership is open to individuals from over 70 common bond organizations, fostering a diverse and inclusive community.
n Leadership: Our dedicated team of professionals, led by our CEO, Oleg Lebedko and his entire staff of employees, our committed volunteer Board of Directors, Supervisory Committee, Ukrainian American Community Foundation, Scholarship Committee, and all branch Advisory Committees worked tirelessly to enhance member experiences.
Шановні спілчани, Підбиваючи
на виклики, пов'язані з
глобальною соціально-економічною ситуацією,
COMMUNITY ENGAGEMENT AND IMPACT
n Ukrainian Summer Kitchen Benefit: We partnered with local organizations, including the Dr. Konstantin Frank Winery, to host events that celebrate our heritage and support charitable causes.
n Educational Initiatives: UFCU continued its commitment to financial literacy by offering workshops and resources to empower our members.
n Digital Transformation: We invested in technology to enhance online banking, making it easier for members to manage their finances.
n Scholarships Offerings to our members across all branches.
n UFCU Branch Support for common bond educational and humanitarian support. The common bond organization refers to a group or association that shares a specific connection or affiliation. In the context of the UFCU, common bond organizations are entities that allow individuals to become members of the credit union. Here are the details:
n UFCU Membership Eligibility:
• U.S. Residents who meet one of the following criteria are eligible to become UFCU members:
1. Member of a Common Bond Church or Organization: You may join if you are part of a church or organization within UFCU’s common bond network.
2. Immediate Family/Household Member: You may join if you have a family member or reside in the same household as a current UFCU member.
3. Establishing Membership: Even if you are not currently part of any organization within UFCU’s common bond, you may still be eligible to join.
n Common Bond Organizations Associated with UFCU:
• UFCU serves members of various common bond organizations across the United States. These organizations are based in areas near our branches:
n Rochester & Webster, NY
n Westwood (Boston), MA
n Buffalo & Amherst, NY
n Matthews (Charlotte), NC
n Federal Way (Seattle), WA
n Parma (Cleveland), OH
n Portland, OR & Vancouver, WA
n Citrus Heights & Rancho Cordova (Sacramento), CA
n Spartanburg, SC
n Syracuse, NY
Remember, you don’t have to be Ukrainian to join UFCU! If you’re unsure about your eligibility, feel free to fill out the form at https://ukrainianfcu.org/about-us/membership/ and someone will assist you.
HERE ARE THE BENEFITS OF JOINING UFCU:
1. Personalized Service: UFCU offers a level of personalized service that has kept its membership growing for over 70 years. The multilingual staff fluently speaks English and Ukrainian, as well as other languages, ensuring effective communication with members.
2. High Savings Rates: Members benefit from high savings rates, allowing them to grow their savings more effectively.
3. Low Loan Rates: UFCU provides low loan rates, making it easier for members to access credit when needed.
4. Community Involvement: By joining UFCU, you become part of a community that actively engages and invests in events and initiatives.
5. Financial Literacy: UFCU is committed to financial literacy. Members have access to workshops and resources that empower them to make informed financial decisions.
6. Diverse Membership: While UFCU has its roots in the Ukrainian-American community, you don’t have to be Ukrainian to join! We welcome members of all walks of life.
Remember, UFCU is insured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA), providing additional security for your deposits and financial transactions. Feel free to explore our services and become part of a strong and supportive credit union community!
LOOKING AHEAD
As we move into the future, UFCU remains dedicated to our mission of empowering our members and strengthening our community. We invite you to explore the complete annual report for more details.
Thank you for your continued trust and support.
Sincerely,
Wasyl Kornylo President & Board Chairman
навчання та освітні ресурси для розширення можливостей наших членів.
n Цифрова трансформація: Ми інвестували в технології для покращення онлайн-банкінгу, щоб нашим членам було ще простіше управляти своїми фінансами.
n Ми пропонуємо Стипендії для наших членів у всіх
філіях.
n Філії УФКС надають освітню та гуманітарну
зі спільною ознакою членства – це група або асоціація, яка має певний спільний зв'язок або приналежність.
У контексті УФКС, організації зі спільною ознакою членства – це організації, які дозволяють фізичним
особам ставати членами кредитної спілки. Нижче наведені
деталі:
n Право на членство в УФКС:
• Мешканці
2. Члени родини/домогосподарства: Ви можете приєднатися до спілки, якщо член вашої
є поточним членом УФКС.
3. Набуття членства: Навіть якщо ви наразі не є членом
жодної організації,
ПЕРЕВАГИ
УФКС пропонує індивідуальний підхід до обслуговування, що сприяє зростанню кількості наших членів вже понад 70 років. Багатомовний персонал вільно володіє англійською та українською мовами, а також іншими мовами, забезпечуючи ефективну комунікацію з членами.
2. Високі депозитні ставки: Наші члени мають доступ до високих ставок по депозитах, що дозволяє їм ефективно примножувати свої заощадження.
3. Низькі кредитні ставки: УФКС пропонує низькі ставки по кредитах, що полегшує членам доступ до кредитів у разі потреби.
4. Залучення громади: Приєднуючись до
різні події та ініціативи.
5. Фінансова грамотність:
6. Різноманітність членства: Хоча УФКС має своє коріння в українсько-американській громаді, вам не обов'язково бути українцем, щоб приєднатися до нас! Ми вітаємо
будь-якого походження.
Пам'ятайте, УФКС застрахований Національною адміністрацією кредитних спілок
операції. Знайомтеся з нашими послугами та ставайте частиною сильної та
підтримуючої спільноти кредитних спілок!
ПОГЛЯД
Дивлячись у майбутнє,
CEO Report
I am honored to present the annual report for Ukrainian Federal Credit Union (UFCU), summarizing the remarkable journey we undertook in 2023.
This year was especially challenging, as the Russian invasion continued in Ukraine, and the U.S. economy saw an unprecedented rise in interest rates. In the face of adversity, our credit union rose to the occasion, demonstrating unwavering resilience and compassion.
COMMUNITY MOBILIZATION & HUMANITARIAN EFFORTS
UFCU provided much-needed support to local organizations, offering extensive volunteering, fundraising, and donation campaigns, gathering humanitarian aid and medical supplies for those in need. While we continue these vital activities, our hearts are with Ukraine, and we eagerly hope for Ukraine’s victory and peaceful recovery.
FINANCIAL GROWTH AND STABILITY
In 2023 we contended with rising inflation and interest rates that increased more and at a faster pace than any time in history. Despite these challenges, UFCU continued to provide high quality competitively priced products and services and demonstrated robust financial performance in 2023. Our total assets increased by 4.8%, surpassing $390M, reflecting the trust and confidence our members place in us.
Our loan portfolio expanded by impressive $20M, reaching $337M, as we continued to offer competitive loan products tailored to the diverse needs of our members. Additionally, our deposit base grew by 5%, even considering that most US financial institutions were struggling to grow deposits. Net income for the year amounted to $362K, reflecting higher cost of deposits in the rising rate environment.
MEMBERSHIP GROWTH
The credit union continued experiencing significant growth in membership, increasing 6.5% to 27,267 members in our UFCU family. This continued growth was largely driven by the influx of humanitarian parolees from Ukraine. To support these new arrivals in their transition to the U.S., our team worked proactively to develop specialized accounts, credit card options, and loan programs, helping them establish a solid credit history and financial footing in their new home.
PRODUCT AND SERVICE OFFERINGS
Responding to the evolving needs of our members, we expanded our product and service offerings. With a focus on enhancing member services and engagement, we embraced technology and digital platforms to provide seamless and secure access to our members' accounts. Zelle person-to person payments were implemented in 2023, and we introduced tougher fraud controls on our members’ debit and savings cards in response to increasing fraud activity in the industry.
We opened a new branch in Spartanburg, SC to further reinforce our commitment to reaching and supporting more members. By the end of 2023, the new branch had close to 800 members and over $11M in loans. As of today, UFCU has a network of 14 branches in 8 states, which provides us with greater opportunities to serve various and diverse groups of our population, but also creates unique challenges related to compliance, marketing and communication.
MEMBER GROWTH
LOOKING AHEAD
We remain steadfast in our commitment to ensuring the longterm financial stability and sustainability of UFCU. Embracing innovation and technology, we will continue to provide modern and convenient banking services. With rapid development of digital channels of interactions, our focus will be on using the latest technologies to gain access to new geographical markets and to improve service to our existing members, while keeping expenses in control. Our leadership will be looking into improving our processes to make sure we optimize our policies, procedures, communication and workflows. We will invest in our team, equipping them with the tools and training needed to deliver unparalleled member experiences. Most importantly, we will faithfully support our members and community organizations, including those tirelessly working to uplift Ukraine in its time of need.
On behalf of the entire team at UFCU, I extend my heartfelt gratitude to our members, staff, and board of directors for their unyielding support and dedication to our credit union's mission. Together, we will forge ahead, empowered by our shared values and a vision of a brighter future.
SHARE GROWTH (Y/Y)
Diana Beleichyk
Tim Bliznietsov
Ophelia Jaremko
Abigail Tkachenko
David Kostiv
Theodore L Coye
Zorian and Ihor (Grandfather) Mykyta
James and Roman (Father) Guzar
Alex Kostiv
L-R: Anton, Valentin (Father), and Phillip Kutsenko
Jeremy Oryshkevych
Luca Roman Shcherbenko
Andin Zeka
Neart Zeka
Statement of Financial Condition
For the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Statement of Income
For the Years Ended December 31, 2023 and 2022
Treasurer's Report
BARBARA TYMOC-GUTIERREZ | TREASURER
It is my pleasure to share the 2023 financial review of UFCU. We continued to see the return of normalcy in the financial sector during 2023. It was a year when strategic planning continued to play a vital role in the success of the Credit Union.
Federal interest rates rose even higher and reached the highest point in 20+ years. However, UFCU completed the year with a solid bottom line in spite of the continuing inflation pressures, and high federal interest rates pressures.
The credit union size as measured by total assets increased by 4.8% to $390.3M. Likewise, member deposits increased by 5.0% to $338.6M. And lastly, membership increased by 1,663 to end the year at 27,267 as we continue to provide our top-notch credit union services. All of this was accomplished while also completing several key operational projects and opening a new branch in Spartanburg SC to better serve our growing membership. This new branch brings UFCU’s total number of branches to 14.
Overall revenues remained firm while keeping pace with higher dividend expenses. This provided UFCU with a solid net profit. These successes as well as those unnamed, are a testament not only to UFCUs’ 27,000+ member family, but also to management, staff, and directors. UFCU’s loan portfolio continued to perform very well. Loan growth remained strong with loan balances increasing $20.1M or 6.3% to $337.3M. UFCU continued to support our communities through lending of $25.2M in church loans and $47.2M in commercial loans. Church loans represented 7.0% and commercial loans represented 16.7% of our loan portfolio.
UFCU continued to add capital in 2023 by earning over $362K in net income. Our credit union continues to be considered “well-capitalized” as measured by the National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) with a net worth ratio at year-end of 7.94%. This measure represents a high level of safety and soundness and offers an added protection to the possibility of any unforeseen losses. Credit unions with a Net Worth ratio of greater than 7% are considered “Well Capitalized” by the NCUA. Your credit union remains strong and well capitalized for the future. Additionally, net worth provides UFCU the capacity to offer new and enhanced future services, an extensive branch network, as well as the opportunity to support strong future growth.
All that being said, it is time to give credit where credit is due. To our valued credit union members: Thank you for continuing to choose UFCU! Thank you for the trust you and your families have bestowed upon us. This trust and loyalty you have provided is priceless to our Credit Union, and we are continually grateful. We look forward to our continued relationship and future successes together. To our board of directors and committee members: Thank you for the time each and every one of you has invested in our credit union! The involvement and commitment you have made has and will continue to ensure the long-term success of UFCU. To our management and staff: Thank you for your continued dedication and commitment to maintain UFCU’s promise of providing exceptional service to our members! UFCU would not be where it is today without all of you. Each of you plays an integral role in our continued success. But more importantly, you help complete the UFCU family.
2023 was a solid year and together we can make 2024 even better!
UFCU
був рік,
Report from the Community Relations Committee
TAMARA DENYSENKO | COMMITTEE CHAIR
Since 1953 Ukrainian Federal Credit Union, founded in Rochester , NY has been committed to the cooperative credit union philosophy of “People Helping People” and has made giving back and supporting common bond communities part of its mission. For 70 years, Ukrainian FCU has been actively involved in sustaining its cooperative mission through volunteerism, financial education pr ograms, and monetary donations to support charitable, community, educationa l, civic, and cultural initiatives.
In 2023, the Community Relations Committee, in coordination with UFCU Board members, executives, marketing professionals, branch managers and Advisory Committees at UFCU branches coast-tocoast, distributed over $73,000 to common bond organizations, churches and community non-profit organizations. An additional $53,000 was distributed through the UFCU established UAC Foundation, Inc., to non-profits and in scholarships to UFCU student-members.
In 2023, Ukrainian FCU reached a special milestone… twenty years of cooperation with Ukrainian Consulates in New York City, Washington DC, and San Francisco, CA helping to provide
consulate services at multiple UFCU branches coast-to-coast. Special recognition and appreciation are extended to Oleg Lebedko, CEO and UFCU Board members Bohdan Zakharchyshyn and Yaroslav Fatyak, for their many years of volunteer service in coordinating and assisting consuls during their visits.
Currently serving on the UFCU Community Relations Committee are – Tamara Denysenko, chair, Yaroslav Fatyak, Bohdan Zakharchyshyn and Alex Oryshkevych. Additional information on UFCU community involvement and support is featured on the Ukrainian FCU website at ukrainianfcu.org/community/
The Ukrainian-American Community Foundation recognized Roc Maidan (center left, Volodymyr Pavlyuk, Roc Maidan Coordinator) with the 2023 Ukrainian American Organization of the Year award during UFCU's 70th anniversary celebration on September 17, 2023. Nominations for the 2024 award will open on October 1, 2024.
Кредитна Спілка, заснована
Н.Й. дотримується кооперативної ідеї «Люди допомагають людям» як
членам і громадам. Понад
В 2023 р. Комітет
благодійної діяльності. Члени комітету, правління, керівники та працівники УФКСпілки
для українського народу часи. У додатку, Українсько-Американська
The Ukrainian School of Knowledge with an enrollment of 245 students located in Milwaukie, OR celebrated its 25th anniversary on May 20, 2023. Ihor Levkiv, UFCU Advisory Committee member, proudly serves as the director of the school.
On October 6-7, 2023 members of the Consulate General of Ukraine in New York provided on-site consular services to citizens of Ukraine at the Dnipro Ukrainian Cultural Center in Buffalo, NY.
Report from the Supervisory Committee
DR. GEORGE HAJDUCZOK | CHAIR SUPERVISORY COMMITTEE
This past September 2023, the Ukrainian Federal Credit Union (UFCU) Board appointed its Supervisory Committee for the coming year. The board reappointed two regular past-committee members and the committee chair for another term. George Hajduczok was reappointed as chair, while Vasiliy Gritsuta and Ihor Levkiv continue their service to the committee.
Olga Kovaliov, CPA and Rostislav Melnik, both of whom are highly qualified and served on our committee, were appointed as Associate Board members by the Board of Directors. The Supervisory Committee thanks them for their years of service and wishes them all the best. Due to the resulting vacancies, Nicolas Boberskyj, CPA has volunteered to serve on the Committee. We welcome Nick and look forward to his participation. We always welcome volunteers to serve on our committee from any of our branch communities, so if interested, please do not hesitate to contact me or a Board member. The committee held its own separate meetings as noted in the committee minutes, and met with the Board throughout the year virtually or in person. The plan of work was completed and all communications and prescribed written reports were posted to the secure UFCU portal to ensure that UFCU is in compliance with the Federal Credit Union Act, the rules and regulations of the NCUA, and UFCU’s own by-laws.
The Supervisory Committee conducted a thorough and recurring set of audits throughout the past year that show the Credit Union currently is financially strong and well managed. The committee audit responsibilities included contracting with an Internal Auditor to establish an audit rotation of key areas and submitted reports on compliance requirements for the Credit Union. The results of the Bank Secrecy Act audit and a number of other audits were reviewed as positive for both our internal and external network controls and information security. The internal audit review process continued on schedule and has provided management and the board with significant feedback about the policies and procedures in place to maintain our member security.
For the year ending 2023, the auditing firm of Bonadio & Co. LLP, served as an external auditor to review UFCU’s financial statements. The Credit Union received an unqualified opinion statement from the external auditors during the year, and the committee was provided a statement that the yearly verification of member accounts had been
performed. The recommendations of the yearly audit were formally submitted to UFCU management, and the committee followed up with management for responses to the recommendations stated in the audit. The results of that audit stated that the overall quality of the Credit Union’s financial reporting was presented fairly in all material respects and conformed to the accounting principles generally accepted (GAAP) in the United States of America.
The National Credit Union Administration (NCUA) is the independent federal agency that insures deposits at federally insured credit unions and protects the members who own credit unions and regulates federal credit unions. The NCUA completed and submitted its examination of the Credit Union in March 2023 and the final NCUA report was issued in November 2023. The Supervisory Committee Chair met virtually with the NCUA officials to discuss its role, obligations and activities. The committee is happy to report that no significant deficiencies were noted.
In addition to reviewing all the professional audits, the Supervisory Committee also conducted quarterly closed accounts reviews in conjunction with COO Tanya Dashkevich. The committee has maintained open lines of communication to resolve member concerns and correspondences through a separate mailing address and a published member-contact, online address. The committee again was able to fulfill the assigned fiduciary responsibilities in a timely fashion, and is giving its full support to the current board and management. The Supervisory Committee stands ready to aid in the resolution of any member inquiries that may arise during the 2024 calendar year.
призначила склад
Штатах Америки. Національна адміністрація кредитних спілок (NCUA) є незалежною федеральною установою, яка гарантує депозити в кредитних спілках, що застраховані на федеральному рівні, захищає членів, які є власниками кредитних спілок, та регулює діяльність федеральних кредитних спілок. NCUA завершила перевірку кредитної спілки у
Report from the Ukrainian-American Community Foundation
DR. EVHEN LYLAK | PRESIDENT
The Ukrainian American Community Foundation (UACF), Inc. established by the Ukrainian Federal Credit Union (UFCU) in 2010 has donated more than $472,000 to a variety of community, cultural, humanitarian, and educational initiatives.
Additionally, in 2023 the UACF, in coordination with the U.S.Ukraine Foundation, became an approved host organization for the Congressional Office of International Leadership (COIL) Open World program.
In 2023, in addition to the UFCU donation of $35,000, donations of $4,450 were generously provided for humanitarian aid and scholarships by individual donors. The UACF supported a wide range of projects throughout the year for the benefit of the UFCU community including lectures held by the Skalny Center for Polish and Central European Studies at the University of Rochester on the 90th Anniversary of the Holodomor and current war in Ukraine; the dedication of the Mirko Pylyshenko Community Library and the virtual reality exhibit at the Irondequoit Public Library “VR Museum of War – War Up Close”. In 2023 UACF presented a “Ukrainian of the Year” Award to ROC Maidan in recognition of their work of collecting and shipping humanitarian aid containers and medical supplies to Ukraine.
THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS OR INITIATIVES RECEIVED A PORTION OF OVER $20,000 FROM THE UACF IN 2023: Humanitarian aid to six families | Flower City Habitat for Humanity | Irondequoit Rotary "Humanitarian Aid to Displaced Families" | Nostalgic Productions, LLC “War in Ukraine – A View from Inside” | ROC Maidan | St. Mary's Ukrainian Orthodox Church Sisterhood | Ukrainian National Women’s League of America, Branch 120 –Rochester Ukrainian Fashion Show | Irondequoit Public Library Foundation – Ukrainian Cultural Exhibits | Ukrainian Rochester Collection (URC) at University of Rochester | Dnipro Ukrainian Cultural Center & Ukrainian American Civic Center | Ukrainian Association of Washington State | Mykola Duplyak - Ukrainian grammar book publication
ADDITIONALLY, UACF DONATED $21,500 TO THE FOLLOWING ORGANIZATIONS:
Kyiv-Mohyla Foundation of America | Revived Soldiers Ukraine | Shevchenko Scientific Society | Tragedy Assistance Program for Survivors (TAPS) International | The Ukrainian Museum | Ukrainian Congress Committee of America | Ukrainian History and Education Center | Ukrainian Catholic University Foundation | Ukrainian Free University Foundation | Ukrainian Language Society | Ukrainian Studies Fund | Ukrainian World Foundation | United Help Ukraine | United Ukrainian American Relief Committee | Ukrainian National Women’s League of America | U.S.-Ukraine Foundation | Worldwide Foundation at WOCCU
SINCE 2010 THE UACF HAS AWARDED OVER $195,350 IN UNDERGRADUATE AND GRADUATE SCHOLARSHIPS.
The UACF, Inc. looks forward to continuing its mission of serving as a non-profit, 501(c)(3) charitable institutional structure for the UFCU for many years to come. The UACF accepts donations from our supporters in several different ways. Please contact us through the UFCU website with any questions about our mission and future goals.
THE
UACF BOARD OF DIRECTORS FOR 2023
Evhen Lylak | President
Barbara Gutierrez | 1st Vice-President
Wasyl Kornylo | 2nd Vice-President
Tamara Denysenko | Treasurer
Alexander Oryshkevych | Secretary Directors | Galina Dyakiv, Yaroslav Fatyak, Bohdan Zakharchyshyn, and Volodymyr Otvarukhin
ДОКТОР ЄВГЕН ЛИЛАК | ПРЕЗИДЕНТ
Українська Американська Громадська
PRESERVING HISTORY
PRESERVING HISTORY
The Digitization and Educational Outreach of the Ukrainian Rochester Collection
by Miranda Mims
In a significant stride towards preserving local Ukrainian cultural heritage and promoting accessibility to historical records, the Rare Books, Special Collections, and Preservation (RBSCP) at the University of Rochester Libraries has completed the digitization of all early ledgers and manuscripts and all the audiovisual materials from the Ukrainian Rochester Collection. This milestone marks a pivotal moment in ensuring that the rich tapestry of Ukrainian-American history in Rochester starting in the early 1900’s remains not only intact but also readily accessible to scholars, researchers, and the broader community.
The Ukrainian Rochester Collection stands as the most extensive repository of primary and secondary source materials in Western New York, chronicling the vibrant Ukrainian American Community in Rochester and Monroe County. This invaluable collection was meticulously assembled by Wolodymyr (Mirko) Pylyshenko.
Under the leadership of Miranda Mims, Joseph N. Lambert and Harold B. Schleifer Director, RBSCP has taken a crucial step forward in its mission to ensure this material is globally accessible. The digitization process opens avenues for exploration and engagement, allowing individuals from around the world to delve into the stories, struggles, and triumphs of the Ukrainian-American community in Rochester. Whether tracing familial roots, conducting academic research, or simply seeking to better understand diaspora communities as they represent a vital aspect of global society, embodying the complexities of migration, cultural preservation, and transnational identity, the digitized archive serves as an invaluable resource. But accessibility doesn't end with digitization—it's just the beginning.
The next phase involves organizing these digital artifacts within a preservation and access database, to enhance the user experience. This thoughtful curation ensures that the wealth of knowledge contained within the Ukrainian Rochester Collection is not only preserved but also presented in a manner conducive to exploration and discovery.
Beyond digitization, RBSCP is actively engaged in educational outreach initiatives to foster greater awareness and appreciation of Ukrainian-American history. Collaborating with the Warner School of Education, curator Autumn Haag and post-doc Rebecca Rosen are spearheading efforts to integrate the Ukrainian Rochester Collection into local school curricula. Their partnership signifies a commitment to bridging the gap between academia and community, ensuring that this rich history is not confined to archival shelves but becomes a living, breathing part of educational discourse.
Through collaborative efforts with high school social studies teachers in the Webster Central School District, Haag and Rosen are developing a lesson plan tailored to leverage the resources of the Ukrainian Rochester Collection. By centering on documents related to Helene Sterniuk, a Ukrainian woman who immigrated to Rochester via Vienna and the UK, this lesson plan offers students a glimpse into the lived experiences of Ukrainian-Americans in Rochester, cultivating empathy, understanding, and critical thinking skills.
As the lesson plan is refined and implemented, Haag, Rosin, and the participating teachers will closely monitor student engagement and outcomes. This iterative process of observation, assessment, and refinement ensures that educational initiatives are responsive to the needs and interests of students, maximizing the impact of the Ukrainian Rochester Collection as an educational resource.
The success of this model holds promise for future endeavors, inspiring RBSCP to continue expanding its outreach efforts and forging meaningful connections between archival collections and educational communities. By empowering educators and students to explore, interrogate, and contextualize historical narratives, RBSCP is not only preserving the past but also shaping the future, one lesson plan at a time.
Stewarded by RBSCP, the Ukrainian Rochester Collection stands as a testament to the enduring legacy of Ukrainian-Americans in Rochester. Through digitization, educational outreach, and collaborative partnerships, this collection ensures that the stories endure, inspiring generations to come with their resilience, courage, and community building.
Miranda Mims, former Director of Rare Books, Special Collections, & Preservation at UR, Tamara Denysenko, UFCU Board Member & UACF Treasurer, & Lev Earle, Processing Archivist at UR.
SPARTANBURG BRANCH GRAND OPENING
On November 17, 2023 we held a Grand Opening and Ribbon Cutting for our Spartanburg Branch in South Carolina. The ceremony marked a significant milestone for our credit union and the Spartanburg community bringing our total number of branches to 14. It is a testament to our commitment to providing excellent financial services and support to the people in the southeastern U.S.
IN THE COMMUNITY
In addition to offering our members low loan rates and high deposit rates, UFCU reinvests in its branch communities and common bond organizations via sponsorships and/or volunteering at events throughout the year. We also highlight some of the work our community members are doing to support Ukraine.
A. On December 12, 2023 we marked 55 years of serving our Syracuse, NY area members with the leaders of our common bond organizations and churches. The event was a wonderful opportunity to bring the community closer together, share stories and hear feedback, and find ways to collaborate and grow.
B. 5K Run for Ukraine took place on June 24, 2023 in Charlotte, NC. The goal of this event was to raise funds and awareness for Ukrainian kids and families that are in refugee camps at the Poland-Ukrainian border.
C. Guests took part in a photo booth frenzy during our annual UFCU Seabreeze Family Picnic on July 1, 2023.
D. Barvinok Ukrainian Dance Ensemble performed during the Ukrainian Association of Washington State's celebration of Ukraine's Independence Day on August 26, 2023 in Renton, WA.
E. U.S. Congressman Joseph Morelle (center) representing the 25th district of New York presented UFCU with a Certificate of Special Congressional Recognition in honor of our 70th anniversary.
F. On September 17, 2023 we gathered to celebrate the 70th anniversary of the founding of our financial institution. After the festive occasion we held our Annual Member Meeting. Thank you to our gracious hosts at the Slavic Bible Baptist Church for being part of and accommodating our credit union family.
G. The Gritsyuta Family at the UFCU 70th Anniversary celebration and Annual Meeting hosted by the Slavic Bible Baptist Church.
H. UFCU employees and friends at the California State Capitol in Sacramento, CA acknowledging the 32nd anniversary of Ukraine's independence in August 2023.
I. On November 9, 2023 UFCU team volunteered at the Roc Maidan warehouse in Webster, NY to help pack life-saving medical back packs for military service men and women in Ukraine.
J. Kalyna Dance Group performed all four days of the 2023 St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Festival.
K. Community members gathered in November 2023 at Boston Common for a candle light vigil commemorating the 'Holodomor' of 1932-33, also known as the Ukrainian famine engineered by Joseph Stalin and the Soviet government that led to the deaths of millions of innocent people.
L. UFCU team participated in the annual Ukrainian Village Parade in Parma, OH followed by the Ukrainian Festival at St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Catholic Cathedral.
Summer AROUND UFCU
Seabreeze Family Picnic 6/29 Rochester, NY
Pierogi Fest 6/29 – 6/30 North Royalton, OH
UkraineFest 7/12 – 7/14 Kerhonkson, NY
Ukrainian Heritage Festival 7/14 Auburn, NY
Ukrainian Festival 7/26 - 7/27 Syracuse, NY
Ukrainian Day 7/27 Fairview, OR
St. Josaphat's Ukrainian Festival
8/15 - 8/18 Rochester, NY
Ukrainian Independence Day 8/24 Sacramento, CA
Ukrainian Independence Day 8/24 Renton, Wa
Ukrainian Village Parade 8/24 Parma, OH
Ukrainian Festival 8/24 - 8/25 Parma, OH
Ukrainian American Day 8/25 Buffalo, NY
Ukrainian Independence Day 8/31 Warners, NY
Northwest Ukrainian International Festival 9/7 Bellevue, WA
Visit our website for a complete and updated list
NOTICE
Beginning in 2024 we will transition to a digital format for our magazine “Dumka” / Annual Report. If your member household would like to receive a printed copy by mail, you must OPT IN by either calling (585) 360-1752, or by visiting our website and completing a form. A limited supply of printed copies will be available at all of our branch locations.
824 East Ridge Rd. Rochester, NY 14621
Branch Locations
TOLL-FREE: 877-968-7828
Rochester, NY
Main Office & Branch 824 East Ridge Rd. Rochester, NY 14621
585-544-9518
Amherst, NY 2882 Niagara Falls Blvd. Amherst, NY 14228
716-799-8385
Buffalo, NY 562 Genesee St. Buffalo, NY 14204
716-847-6655
Citrus Heights, CA
7084 Auburn Blvd. Citrus Heights, CA 95621 916-721-1188
Federal Way, WA 716 S 348th St. Federal Way, WA 98003 253-237-5293
Matthews, NC 1730 Matthews Township Pkwy. Matthews, NC 28105 704-246-3040
Parma, OH Osnova Branch 5602 State Rd. Parma, OH 44134 440-842-5888
Portland, OR 12893 SE 97th Ave. Clackamas, OR 97015 503-774-1444
Rancho Cordova, CA 11088 Olson Dr. Rancho Cordova, CA 95670 916-894-0822
Spartanburg, SC 225 W Blackstock Rd. Spartanburg, SC 29301 864-754-3770
Syracuse, NY 211 Tompkins St. Syracuse, NY 13204 315-471-4074
Vancouver, WA 6115 NE 114th Ave. Vancouver, WA 98662 360-597-2096
Webster, NY 900 Holt Rd. Webster, NY 14580 585-545-6276
Westwood, MA 282 Providence Hwy. Westwood, MA 02090 781-493-6733