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Summary for: Czech charity People in Need to open first US office in ChicagoCzech humanitarian organization People in Need is preparing to open its first US branch in Chicago, with former hockey star Dominik Hašek helping introduce its work to potential partners and donors.
The office, named PIN USA, will strengthen the organization’s ties with American supporters and raise long-term funding for humanitarian and human rights projects. Its main launch event is scheduled for Dec. 11, with introductory activities planned earlier that month.
“Americans have supported our work for many years, and we now want to work with them directly and systematically,” People in Need spokeswoman Adriana Černá said.
Why Chicago?
Chicago’s sizable Czech and Ukrainian communities helped make it the organization’s choice for its first American base. The city also offers opportunities to work with local institutions, according to People in Need.
The branch will introduce American audiences to the charity’s activities in crisis areas worldwide, including Ukraine. Although Chicago will be its initial home, the organization plans to develop activities in other US cities over time.
Hašek, a former Czech national team goaltender, is serving as PIN USA’s ambassador. His role includes helping establish contacts and build relationships with prospective partners and supporters.
The office will initially operate with a small team led by a director, supported by staff at the organization’s Czech headquarters. People in Need plans to hire another one or two employees next year, primarily for administration, financial management and human resources.
Films, discussions and university partnerships
The American branch’s activities will extend beyond fundraising. People in Need plans film screenings and discussions connected with One World, its human rights documentary film festival.
It also wants to collaborate with American universities, cultural institutions and foundations, creating more opportunities for US audiences to engage with the issues behind its humanitarian and human rights work.
People in Need, known in Czech as Člověk v tísni, provides humanitarian and development assistance, supports human rights and runs educational projects. Its work includes helping people affected by wars and natural disasters, supporting civil society and organizing One World.
The Chicago opening will give those activities a permanent US base, with the organization aiming to turn years of American support into closer, sustained partnerships.
