YCDA logo Yirol Community Development AssociationYCDA · North America

About us

A community far from home, and never far from each other.

Our story

“Inspired by the rich cultural heritage of the Dinka people of South Sudan and their enduring spirit of resilience against historical adversity, we, the members of the Yirol community in the United States, establish this Constitution. We are united by a common purpose: to build a prosperous and self-reliant future, to support one another in adapting to new lives, and to ensure that our traditions, values, and identity thrive for generations to come.”

Preamble, YCDA Constitution
YCDA members holding the association banner

Our mission

To unite and empower the Yirol diaspora by providing tangible support for social and economic adaptation in the United States; to preserve and celebrate our Dinka cultural heritage through education and community gatherings; and to mobilize resources for transparent, member-driven development programs that benefit our communities both here and in South Sudan.

Our vision

A resilient and united Yirol community, prosperous in its endeavors and deeply rooted in its cultural heritage, where every member can thrive personally and professionally while contributing to the strength of our people both in the United States and back home.

Our objectives

As set out in Chapter 3 of the YCDA Constitution.

Cultural

  • To promote and preserve the Dinka Sudanese cultures, traditions, and languages of the Yirol people.
  • To reflect Yirol’s cultural heritage through all organizational activities.

Social

  • To foster fraternity, unity, and mutual support among the Yirol people and the broader Sudanese diaspora.
  • To promote the social and academic excellence of members while upholding and respecting U.S. law.

Economic

  • To mobilize members for socio-economic development and empowerment through lawful means.
  • To create and manage joint investment opportunities for the collective financial benefit of members.

Legal status: a non-political, non-profit association, seeking tax-exempt 501(c)(3) status

Principal office: Bellevue, Nebraska