Our Organization
Founded first in 1921 in Zagreb and expanded to its first American branch in Chicago in 1929, Croatian Woman has been upholding the same values their founders set to nurture for over 100 years.
Our Story
From the start “Croatian Woman,” as an organization, was strongly built with a foundation based on clearly set goals in the cultural and humanitarian fields. Their goodwill was deeply imbedded, far-reaching, and felt by many throughout the world wherever Croatians live and people are in need. Their work is best exemplified and stated in the beginning of the organization’s bylaws, which were written by Slava Furst and Julka Patriarch, and which were chartered on May 21, 1921.
Our mission is to help Croatians who are in need all over the world. Our original bylaws state: “The goal of the organization is to cultivate a social standard among Croatian women, which is conducive to the promotion of social, public, economic, moral and humanitarian health in both national and feminist fields.”
Our Mission
Our Values
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We believe that meaningful change begins with active participation. As members of the Croatian community, we take pride in supporting one another, fostering collaboration, and strengthening the bonds that connect us. Through service, events, and shared initiatives, we create spaces where our community can thrive together.
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Our culture is our identity, and we are dedicated to celebrating and preserving it. From language and traditions to art, music, and cuisine, we honor the richness of Croatian heritage by sharing it proudly with others. By promoting cultural understanding, we keep our history alive and ensure that our stories continue to inspire future generations.
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We see the next generation as the guardians of our shared legacy. By engaging youth in our programs and traditions, we instill pride, purpose, and belonging. Through mentorship, education, and cultural activities, we empower them to embrace their Croatian roots and carry forward the values and spirit that define our community.
Join the next generation of Croatian women
Celebrate your heritage, connect with your community, and help carry our traditions into the future.