Who we are
A grassroots, nonprofit organization based in Grand Rapids
Imagine a place where the rich tapestry of Ukrainian culture comes alive, where a tight-knit community thrives, and where heritage and tradition are celebrated with unbridled joy. This is what the Ukrainian Society of Michigan is all about, and it's not just a community; it's a beacon of support, understanding, and growth for our fellow Ukrainians who have found their way to the welcoming shores of Michigan.
UASMI (you-as-me)
Together we impact and make a difference
The Ukrainian Society of Michigan (UASMI) was founded with a dream of creating a support system and a sense of home for all those with Ukrainian heritage, and as a response to the unprovoked Russian invasion into Ukraine. Although we started organizing the community in West Michigan in April 2022, the organization began its journey in May 2023 as a 501(c)(3) charitable nonprofit.
Our Impact
Building, revitalizing and enriching community
Based in Grand Rapids, our top priority is to provide unwavering support to those Ukrainians who, due to the harrowing Russian invasion, were forced to flee their homes and seek refuge here in West Michigan. These are individuals and families who have faced unimaginable hardships, who have left behind everything they knew, had and loved, and who now look to Michigan as their sanctuary. And we have made it our solemn duty to ensure they find not just refuge, but also hope, healing, and a flourishing community.
Meet Our Board of Directors
Anna Kovalenko
Board President & Co-Founder
Anna Kovalenko is deeply committed to supporting refugee and immigrant communities, drawing on her decade-long immigrant journey from Ukraine. Her intimate understanding of the challenges facing New Americans fuels her dedication to successful integration. Since 2022, Anna has organized the Ukrainian community in West Michigan, passionately leading social and cultural initiatives. She has forged partnerships with businesses, government, and local nonprofits, contributing to education, advocacy, resource sharing, and cultural integration. Her focus is on fostering a resilient, united community while preserving and sharing Ukrainian culture. Motivated by a profound commitment to service, Anna aspires to create a lasting impact on immigrant and refugee well-being. Her diverse background includes a successful career in theater and film in Kyiv, Ukraine, followed by transitions into education, customer service, and the nonprofit sector. Pursuing a degree in Business Administration, she aims to expand the Ukrainian Society of Michigan's reach, positively impacting more lives and promoting intercultural understanding. As a 2024 Fellow at Hello Neighbor Network, Anna continues developing her leadership. Beyond professional commitments, she finds joy in singing, gardening, and lifelong learning.
Erika Hill
Board Treasurer
Erika Hill serves as Treasurer of the Ukrainian Society of Michigan (UASMI), where she applies her financial expertise and leadership to support the organization’s mission. With a degree from the University of Michigan and a professional background in banking, Erika ensures the organization’s resources are effectively managed to make a meaningful impact. Drawn to UASMI’s commitment to fostering connection and resilience, Erika became actively involved, finding inspiration in the strength of the Ukrainian community and its ability to unite in times of need. She is particularly passionate about the organization’s community events and children’s outreach programs, which she believes are instrumental in nurturing the next generation and strengthening cultural ties. Through her work with UASMI, Erika is dedicated to ensuring the organization’s financial health and sustainability, helping it continue to serve as a beacon of support and solidarity for Ukrainian individuals and families across Michigan.
Mariya Nizhnik
Board Secretary
(Coming Soon)
Oleksandr Kovalenko
Co-Founder & Board Member
Oleksandr Kovalenko serves as a Secretary and is a Co-founder of UASMI. He is a retired US Navy veteran who brings his leadership, unwavering dedication and international relations expertise to our growing organization. Born and raised in Cherkasy, Ukraine, Oleksandr immigrated to the United States at the age of 16 and graduated from Whitney M. Young Magnet High School in Chicago, IL. Then he was accepted to the United States Naval Academy where he earned a B.S. in International Relations. Oleksandr's commitment to service and leadership is undeniable. His distinguished career experience spans a decade of service as a Surface Warfare Officer in the United States Navy, including three deployments to the Middle Eastern AOR. Now based in Grand Rapids, Oleksandr is an active member of the Ukrainian community. His deep community engagement is further evidenced by his involvement with several nonprofit organizations including a role on the board of the Grand Rapids Sister Cities International. Outside of his professional commitments, Oleksandr enjoys outdoor activities, reading, and sports.
Tarah Carnahan
Board Member
Tarah Carnahan is the Executive Director and Co-founder of Treetops Collective, a cross-cultural movement aimed at investing in New American women leaders. She is deeply passionate about the intersections of culture, community and creativity, and brings her experience as an entrepreneur and community builder to our organization. Tarah's exceptional skills lie in building bridges between unlikely partners, connecting donors, businesses, or makers to a common purpose. Her passion revolves around nurturing diverse, dynamic communities by celebrating individual strengths and fostering inclusion. With a Bachelor's in Business and Sociology, Tarah initiated a life-changing project in Paraguay, promoting savings and entrepreneurship among women living in the garbage dump community. This inspired her to pursue a Master's in Sustainable Business. For the past decade, Tarah has been a dedicated advocate for welcoming and integrating New Americans into West Michigan, underscoring the transformative power of friendship. Tarah is renowned as a 2022 Grand Rapids 40 under 40 honoree. During the past 5 years she has held positions as a Fellow at Praxis, Hello Neighbor, and with the Stand Together Foundation.
UASMI
UASMI (you-as-me), the Ukrainian Society of Michigan, is more than just an acronym. It's a reflection of the profound connection between Ukraine and Michigan, and it is embodied in the concept "you as me."
We are family
When we say "you as me", we're talking about a deep sense of unity and shared values. It's a reminder that our organization, UASMI, isn't just an entity — it's a bridge between cultures, a place where Ukraine and Michigan meet, where "you" and "me" become one.
Connected by values
The concept of "you as me" reminds us that, at our core, we share common human values and experiences. It underscores that, despite our differences, we're bound by fundamental qualities and aspirations. It encourages empathy, understanding, and the recognition that, in many ways, "you" are "me." We are all connected by the threads of history, culture, and shared ideals.
Your tax-deductible donation will create a lasting, positive change in the lives of refugee and immigrant families in Michigan
The Ukrainian Society of Michigan is a 501(c)(3) charitable organization. These are just a few examples of how your gift could make a difference.
$20 - Space rental for a community choir.
$33 - Celebrate 33 years of Ukraine’s Independence.
$50 - Help a refugee child process feelings through art.
$100 - Empower lives through our interactive English programs.
We thank you for your generosity!