The coronavirus pandemic has had a profound effect on the global community, including the Ukrainian National Association, a fraternal benefit society that serves the Ukrainian community and its members throughout North America. And yet, we are proud to say, UNA operations have continued throughout the pandemic.

At the UNA’s Home Office, which is based in Parsippany, N.J., we reacted immediately and put into effect a business contingency plan previously developed for such an eventuality. Out of an abundance of caution, our Home Office was closed and, beginning on Monday, March 16, our employees began to work remotely in order to continue serving our members without disruption. Thus, the UNA was focused on both protecting the health of its Home Office staff and meeting the needs of its thousands of members.

During this temporary work arrangement, the UNA continued to accept membership applications, process claims and handle all variety of matters important to our policyholders. All the while, members could reach us during business hours (8 a.m.-4 p.m.) via our customer service number at 800-253-9862. We sincerely thank our members for their patience, cooperation and understanding during this trying time for us all.

At the same time, the UNA closely monitored developments related to the coronavirus pandemic, carefully following all guidelines issued by government officials and health authorities. As a result, the work-from-home plan was extended several times.

On Monday, June 1, the Home Office began transitioning to a multi-phased return to regular operations. We are taking all precautions to make sure our staff stays protected, as we are spending more time in the office and increasing our interactions. The office schedules of our employees have slowly been increased, hand sanitizer and disinfecting agents are available throughout the office, face masks are provided and required to be worn, and social distancing is encouraged. In addition, our offices are being sanitized on a regular schedule.

Just as we care about the safety of our staff, we care about the well-being of our members throughout the United States and Canada. We encourage you to follow the guidance and instructions issued by your local, state and federal authorities so that together we can overcome COVID-19. Please stay safe and stay healthy!

For over 126 years, the Ukrainian National Association has always been there for our members. While we are not yet back to operations as they were before the coronavirus pandemic, we pledge to you that we will continue to serve you as we always have – with the utmost professionalism, respect and care. Please do not hesitate to reach out to us with any questions you may have. Our dedicated staff is ready and able to respond.

As we all do our part in the global fight against this novel coronavirus, remember that we truly are all in this together.

Fraternally,
Stefan Kaczaraj
President/Chief Executive Officer
Ukrainian National Association