As 2025 comes to a close, we reflect with deep gratitude on a year shaped by generosity, shared purpose, and the power of community.

This past year marked a defining chapter in ROCO Chicago’s journey. With your continued trust and support, ROCO strengthened its organizational foundation as an officially recognized non-profit, secured its first institutional grant as a standalone applicant, and significantly expanded its impact across education, culture, youth leadership, and community engagement.

Highlights from 2025:

  • ROCO became the first community center in the US certified as a Romanian language competency testing center, in partnership with ILRLE and Babeș-Bolyai University

  • Successfully organizing our first official Romanian language certification session in October

  • Celebrating community through signature events, including the 3rd Timeless Vibes Festival, 2nd Women's Health Symposium and Ana Banana 5K, and 4th Math Kangaroo Competition
  • Joining the Chicago Cultural Alliance as a Core Member, strengthening our presence in Chicago’s multicultural landscape

  • Developing a digital Storytelling curriculum database, now accessible to other Romanian diaspora communities

  • Implementing Impact Clubs for teens and pre-teens, fostering leadership, service, and civic engagement

  • Launching new initiatives such as Discover Romania workshop series, Learn Romanian language program, and a pilot STEM program

These achievements reflect the collective effort of our volunteers, members, partners, donors, and families. Your involvement continues to shape ROCO into a vibrant, forward-looking community center rooted in service, education, and cultural pride.

As we look ahead to 2026, we do so with clarity and confidence—focused on growing our role as a hub for individual and business connections, deepening cultural and educational pathways, expanding youth leaderships initiatives, and strengthening partnerships that allow ROCO to serve our community in sustainable and meaningful ways. 

Thank you for being an essential part of ROCO’s mission and impact! We look forward to an inspirational 2026, filled with  purpose, and possibility.

With gratitude,

Oana Dobrean-Urzica
Executive Director, ROCO Chicago 

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Even if you cannot donate financially, spreading the word about our Center and our events, join our Volunteer Team, or sharing our mission on social media also provides immense support. Every action you take helps us achieve our goals.

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Your contributions are tax-deductible under ROCO Chicago's 501(c)(3) status and you will receive a donation receipt via email for your records. Your support is an investment in our common legacy, creating opportunities for our youth, and celebrate our shared culture.

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ROCO Chicago

About

ROCO Chicago, the Romanian Community Center, is a modern center dedicated to engaging and supporting our community and accelerating Romanian businesses in Chicago. ROCO has minimal staff and works with hundreds of volunteers.