In 1967, Ukrainian political activist, Ulana Celewycz-Steciuk founded the Women's Association for the Defense of Four Freedoms for Ukraine (WADFFU). It was headquartered in New York. Its mission - supporting Ukraine in her struggle to gain independence from the Communist stronghold of the Soviet Union and to defend four basic freedoms: freedom of speech, freedom of religion, freedom from fear and
freedom from want. To help achieve this goal, they raised awareness of the plight of Ukrainian citizens on their own soil. In the fall of 1967, the Oksana Meshko branch was firmly planted in Chicago by Mrs. Celewycz and 30 devoted women. Their daughters as well as other young girls of Ukrainian descent watched and learned as WADFFU took on political and cultural activities for the benefit of their homeland by disseminating information about their beloved Ukraine to all of America and beyond. On June 5, 1984, these same girls, who were now young women with their own families, formed a new branch of WADFFU. Twenty-five dedicated, educated and professional young women began their important work. They chose their name in memory of Alla Horska, a devoted Ukrainian activist and artist who was murdered by the Soviet regime because of her battle against the injustices in her beloved homeland. The Alla Horska branch has focused their work on supporting Ukraine in her fledgling years of independence and continues their philanthropic work. Notable past events include: "Wheelchairs for Ukraine" for the United Ukrainian American Relief Committee (UUARC), raising over $25,000 for children and adults with disabilities in Ukraine; "One Heart to Another" for the "Gift of Life" program under the auspices of the Ukrainian American Freedom Foundation, resulting in over $32,000 for children's hear surgeries in Ukraine; "Ukrainian Woman - Guardian of the Nation" focusing on important Ukrainian women in history, with proceeds going to "Adopt a Grandparent" program in Ukraine run by UUARC; various clothing drives for disadvantaged children Ukrainians around the world; "500 Heroines of Kingir," funding and coordinating the renovation of the Kingir monument on the grounds of CYM oselia in Baraboo, WI. There is also time set aside for fun or educational events like BINGO Sundays, art exhibits, Ukrainian cooking/torte classes and "Mind, Body and Soul" - Wellness Day for Women. The Alla Horska branch has worked tirelessly during its 30 years of existence and continues to grow in it's responsibilities and efforts.
