Menu

Where there is |,
there is aid for life.

About

OUR MISSION

The Ukrainian Development Fund supports Ukrainian refugees through the power of competitive dance while also delivering crucial humanitarian aid to those still impacted by the war at home.

WHERE WE STARTED

We established the Ukrainian Development Fund as a positive movement for movement—a way to bring the rich tradition of competitive dance to a new country many now call home. Beloved by millions across Europe, we support Ukrainian refugees passionate about pursuing dance in the United States. By providing communal and economic support as these refugees begin to rebuild their lives, we can help them feel more at home in Charlotte, Greensboro, and Raleigh, North Carolina.

WHERE WE’RE GOING

In addition to fostering cultural continuity through dance, we’ve expanded our efforts to address the ongoing humanitarian crisis in Ukraine. Our organization now plays an active role in delivering essential aid, supplies, and donations to those still facing the devastating effects of war—striving to bring relief and hope to those who need it most.

Starting A Movement Through Movement

Stability

Financial assistance plays a crucial role in easing the transition for refugees rebuilding their lives in the United States, as well as for those still in Ukraine. Thanks to your generosity, we have raised over $50,000 to support these efforts. If you haven’t already, please consider making a donation.

Community

Proactive initiatives help address the trauma of displacement and allow refugees to meaningfully connect with one another. These opportunities help foster a sense of community where refugees can live, dance, and thrive—together. Some of our current initiatives include ballroom dance competitions, coaching sessions with dance instructors, performance costumes, and housing expenses.

Joy

Culture is a constant, even in times of turmoil. Therefore, dance can contribute to moments of healthy healing and unexpected joy amid the uncertainty of a tough transition.

Testimonials

Discover the impact of the Ukrainian Development Fund firsthand

“My dance partner (and partner in life) have wanted to compete professionally since we were children. We thought those dreams were forever ended when our country was attacked by Russia in March of 2022.  But that was not so. With the help of other Ukrainian and American dancers (both professional and students) we were able to come to the United States and to resume our careers. Their assistance with travel expenses and competition fees have allowed us to enter several events over the last year. Our dreams of dancing, and of one day living in the United States, have been restored by the kindness of so many who have supported us.”

- Dmitriy Rozdaibida and Daryna Tymchenko

“My family is a dance family. I and both of my daughters have been dancers since early childhood. Katya, my oldest daughter and I are also dance instructors. Our dreams of careers in dance were suddenly ended nearly two years ago with the outbreak of war. Thankfully, with help from other dance professionals and their students in Greensboro, Katya was able to come here and resume her career. With additional help from those same generous people, my wife and Katya’s sister have been able to join her recently. I cannot begin to express my gratitude for the help we have received. It means more than you can imagine”

- Dima Bielukha

“On March 24, 2022 me and my husband and our three daughters were awakened by the sound of heavy explosions. Soon we could see Russian tanks as they made their way toward our neighborhood on the outskirts our our city, only 25 miles from the border. We were able to escape with little more than our lives, fleeing to Poland, and then to the United States in late June. Our journey to safety would not have been possible without support from others, especially those in the Greensboro dance community. In addition to helping us establish lives here, they have helped us restart our careers as dance instructors and competitors. In fact our 12 year old daughter has been reunited with her childhood partner and is able to compete again. The pair was recently awarded the honor of representing the United States in the world championships in the Netherlands. Again, none of this would have been possible without the generosity of others.”

- Olena and Dmytro Bondarenko

Help Make An Impact

Your donations make a difference and have a lasting impact on countless individuals and their families.

Contributions help support:

  • Competition Fees
  • Costumes
  • Lessons
  • Travel
  • Family Expenses
  • Overseas Home Essentials
  • Clothing
  • Medical Supplies
Make a donation
Contact Us

REACH OUT AND TOUCH LIVES

We’re here to nurture the lives of our Ukrainian community here and abroad. Just like a perfectly choreographed dance, every step brings us closer to our shared vision.