The Cossack Foundation
1. Executive Summary:
The Cossack Foundation is a nonprofit organization headquartered in Kyiv, Ukraine, and an affiliate 501c3 chapter [pending] in the United States. Ms. Kateryna Koval, the executive director, is a graduate of the Ukrainian Military Academy and is a Ukrainian Reserve Infantry Commander.
Ms. Koval has a master’s degree in international law from the University of Kharkiv and other advanced degrees. She is fluent in Ukrainian, Russian and English, and is perhaps one of the most well networked Ukrainians with the US Army Special Forces community who have been supporting the Ukrainian war effort as volunteers doing both humanitarian and combat related roles in Ukraine.
She is a subject matter expert on Ukraine NATO Integration, the Russian Federation, and leader of the Global Security Project including the #USAStandsWithUkraine grassroots strategic communications campaign managed by Ukrainian and American young professionals, mentored by executives and senior military officer volunteers. Those programs are in partnership with internationally recognized US Army Special Forces and Special Operations veterans, and nonmilitary supporters. She worked for the previous administration of the office of the President of Ukraine as the expert for military reform and has participated in Ukrainian NATO initiatives before the 2022 invasion.
The Cossack Foundation seeks to provide vital support and programs to Ukrainian Special Operations Forces and other wounded Ukrainian combat veterans and their families. By collaborating with USA NGOs like the Disabled American Veterans, American Legion, Green Beret Foundation and other established NGOs as our organizational mentor, Cossack Foundation aims to adopt best practices in running such an organization. This business plan summary outlines our key objectives, target audience, program offerings, and strategies for sustainability.
2. Objectives:
- Provide immediate and long-term support to Ukrainian Special Operations Forces and wounded warrior combat veterans and their families.
- Facilitate a successful transition to civilian life for UA veterans by offering tailored resources and assistance.
- Promote the physical, mental, and emotional well-being of veterans through comprehensive programs and services.
- Preserve the legacy and traditions of Ukrainian Special Operations and Military forces by promoting awareness and education.
3. Target Audience:
The Cossack Foundation primarily serves Ukrainian Special Operations Forces combat veterans, as well as non Special Operations Forces soldiers, in other branches of service, especially combat medics, combat engineers, strategic communications IO, reconnaissance personnel, and other military skills. Our programs and services extend to their families, recognizing the crucial role they play in supporting their loved ones’ service and transition. Additionally, the foundation aims to engage with the broader Ukrainian society to raise awareness and garner support for our mission.
4. Programs and Services:
- Transition Assistance Program: Provide career counseling, job placement assistance, and entrepreneurship training to facilitate successful reintegration into civilian life.
- Family Support Program: Offer financial aid, counseling services, educational resources, and community events to support the families of Ukrainian wounded warriors.
- Physical and Mental Well-being Program: Provide access to physical fitness activities, mental health support, and recreational opportunities to enhance the overall well-being of veterans.
- Legacy Preservation Program: Conduct educational initiatives, historical archiving, and community outreach to promote awareness of Ukrainian Special Operations history and traditions.
5. Collaboration with USA Foundations:
The Cossack Foundation will benefit from the mentorship and guidance of USA veteran serving organizations VSOs and NGOs such as the American legion, AMVETS, Disabled American Veterans, Wounded Warrior Foundation, the Green Beret Foundation and others to leverage their expertise in running a successful nonprofit organization supporting US Army Special Operations Forces and other wounded warriors, who were and are some of the same warriors who defend freedom in war zones like in Ukraine, supporting global security around the world. The Cossack Foundation understands their role, and will facilitate a 360 degree approach to serving our collective Special Forces communities via collaboration and mentorship programs, such as the one we are proposing as a Mentor Protégé program between the USA Foundations and the Protégé, the Cossack Foundation.
We will collaborate closely with them to learn best practices, implement proven strategies, and establish effective operational processes. This partnership will enhance our ability to fulfill our mission and provide optimal support to Ukrainian veterans who need that help now, not next year.
Unfortunately, it would violate operational security to disclose the number of Ukrainian SF/SOF in need of services, but we will have representation at the UA Ministry of Defense which works closely with US Department of Defense colleagues, so we will be able to have confidential discussions with USA NGO sponsors about the needs, and as they change over time.
6. Sustainability Strategies:
To ensure the long-term sustainability of the Cossack Foundation, we will implement the following strategies:
- Establish partnerships with corporate sponsors, government agencies, and philanthropic organizations to secure funding and resources.
- Develop a robust fundraising program, including events, campaigns, and donor outreach.
- Foster strong relationships with local communities and organizations to facilitate collaboration and support.
- Continuously evaluate and improve program effectiveness through regular assessments and feedback mechanisms.
- Cultivate a strong network of volunteers and ambassadors to expand our reach and impact.
7. Conclusion:
The Cossack Foundation is poised to make a significant difference in the lives of Ukrainian Special Operations Forces and other Ukrainian wounded warriors and their families. By providing vital support, resources, and programs, we aim to empower these elite warriors as they transition to civilian life. With USA Foundations to support us as mentors and supporters, we are confident in our ability to create a sustainable organization that honors the sacrifices of Ukrainian Special Operations Forces and other wounded warriors in Ukraine and ensures their continued well-being and success.