Join Us: Global Goals, Local Leaders

Dear Friends,

I welcome you into our community of changemakers—individuals committed to ensuring that the values and mission of the United Nations are not just ideals on paper, but living commitments in our everyday lives.

My own journey with the United Nations began more than three decades ago, and my grassroots work spans UN Association Chapters in Germany and France, and since 2007, here in the United States. Over these years, I have seen firsthand the power of the UN to convene nations, inspire action, and set a course for a more sustainable for us all. I have also witnessed how essential it is for ordinary people—you, me, all of us—to bring these global commitments home, into our communities.

As President of the United Nations Association of San Diego for 12 years and an executive committee member of the UNA-USA National Council, I learned that change always begins with people who care enough to raise their voices, open their hearts, and roll up their sleeves. From convening engaging events around the Sustainable Development Goals, to mobilizing leaders across the U.S. and beyond, my work has shown me that when we connect the local to the global, we ignite a force that truly transforms.

I invite you to see yourselves as part of this global family, take part in our collective actions. The UN’s work cannot succeed without the commitment of communities like ours across the United States. Your voice, your skills, your lived experiences matter in shaping the future we want and the world we need.

Together, we can stand as advocates, storytellers, and mobilizers—ensuring that support for the United Nations continues, grows more visible, and has more impactful than ever before. I know from my own journey that it takes courage to step forward, but I also know the joy and purpose that come from being part of something greater than ourselves.

Thank you for believing that global citizenship begins right here at home. And thank you for adding your voice to this urgent and hopeful movement.

“I am because we are.” [Ubuntu]