Thousands of children and families from across the Sacramento region recently gathered for the International Kids Festival, one of Northern California’s largest family-oriented cultural events celebrating childhood, diversity, education, and community engagement.

Throughout the festival, youth volunteers from the Ukrainian community assisted event organizers at various activity zones, helping welcome families, coordinate participant flow, support children’s activities, and contribute to a safe and positive experience for attendees. Their efforts played an important role in ensuring that thousands of visitors could enjoy the festival’s educational, cultural, and recreational programs.

Beyond serving the community, the experience provided participating teenagers with valuable opportunities to strengthen leadership, communication, teamwork, and problem-solving skills in a real-world environment. By taking on meaningful responsibilities and interacting with diverse groups of people, young volunteers gained practical experience that helps prepare them for future educational, professional, and leadership opportunities.

At UA House, we believe that volunteerism is one of the most effective ways for young people to develop confidence, responsibility, and a sense of purpose while making a positive impact on the community around them.

The Youth Development Program is implemented by Ukrainian American House in partnership with PHI and is designed to help young people discover their talents, develop leadership skills, explore educational and career opportunities, and become active contributors to their communities.

By creating opportunities for service, learning, and personal growth, UA House continues investing in the next generation of leaders, professionals, and community builders who will help shape a stronger future for the Ukrainian-American community and the Sacramento region as a whole.