Chicago, IL - April 2026 - The Romanian United Foundation (RUF) is celebrating a milestone made possible entirely by the people who fuel its mission: donors, volunteers, and partners who believe in strengthening Romanian communities everywhere. Together, they have helped raise $5 million to support programs that create real impact for Romanians abroad and in the homeland.

”This milestone demonstrates what our community can achieve when we unite around a shared vision. The $5 million raised represents more than funding - it's proof of our collective commitment to strengthening Romanian communities worldwide. But this is only the beginning. The programs and initiatives we're building today will create exponential value for generations. I'm confident that when we look back in five to ten years, we'll see this moment as the foundation for billions of dollars in positive impact across the Romanian diaspora,” said Mihai Lehene, Founder and President of RUF.

A Track Record of Impact Across Romania and the Diaspora

What started as a small group of committed volunteers has grown into a global network working toward a common goal. With the support of its community, RUF has been able to champion initiatives such as:

• RUF Youth & Excellence Center Programs - Offering a variety of educational programs for children of Romanian families in Chicago.
• Scholarships & Awards - The Romanian American National Heritage Awards, which recognize high school students of Romanian background and strengthen community ties.
• Trips to Romania - Providing immersive cultural and educational experiences that help diaspora youth connect with their heritage.
• The Romanian Community Summit (GlobalRomania Summit) - Bringing together leaders, volunteers, and partners to collaborate on solutions for Romania’s most pressing challenges.
• Via Transilvanica, Our Strategic Project - Supporting the 1,600 km trail that crosses Romania from north to south, a project designed to unite the diaspora and serve as a modern symbol of Romanian identity.

GlobalRomania: RUF’s Most Ambitious Initiative Yet

GlobalRomania is a digital platform built to connect Romanians everywhere into a unified global network. It gives members a space to share resources, build partnerships, and collaborate on projects that strengthen communities worldwide.

This initiative reflects RUF’s long‑term vision: a connected and empowered global Romanian community working together for sustainable impact.

Looking Ahead

Reaching the $5 million mark in seven years speaks to the dedication of RUF’s supporters and the strength of its long‑term strategy. Every contribution, large or small, has helped build momentum for programs that uplift communities and create lasting change. 

With members in 61 countries, 95 financed projects, and 154 partners, RUF remains committed to community‑driven leadership and to the belief that when the Romanian diaspora unites, remarkable things happen.

About the Romanian United Foundation (RUF)

Based in Chicago, RUF unites the Romanian diaspora and global supporters to uplift communities through cultural, educational, and professional initiatives. With a 100% pass‑through model and an 88/100 Charity Navigator rating, RUF remains committed to transparency and long‑term impact.

About GlobalRomania

GlobalRomania is an invitation‑only community uniting exceptional Romanians across the diaspora to connect, collaborate, and lead. It bridges personal ambition with collective belonging, turning Romanian identity into action. From business and science to culture, education, and public life, GlobalRomania empowers members to drive growth, inspire change, and shape the future together.

Media Contact: 

Andrea Lewis

[email protected]