MEET OUR TEAM
BRAD HOPP
Brad has served on staff with Cru, a global, faith-based non-profit, for over 35 years. Brad is committed to helping people develop their personal, professional, and spiritual lives so that everyone can find their place in Gods story. Brad serves those in the Greater Austin area making a positive impact in his community. Brad lived and served internationally for 11 years training others in cross-cultural engagement and communication. Brad believes we are called to love our neighbors, and is passionate about helping to meet the needs of our displaced Ukrainian community here in Austin.
KATE VOINOVA
ANYA HOPP
Born in Eastern Ukraine, Anya saw God bring strength out of her personal trials when she immigrated to America. As a mother of three she understands the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Anya’s journey from her homeland to the U.S. coupled with faith helps her relate with compassion to fellow immigrants as she offers support in navigating the complexities of their new lives. Through her experiences, she has learned that home is more than a place on the map and there’s always hope in the midst of hardship.
BRAD HOPP
Brad has served on staff with Cru, a global, faith-based non-profit, for over 35 years. Brad is committed to helping people develop their personal, professional, and spiritual lives so that everyone can find their place in Gods story. Brad serves those in the Greater Austin area making a positive impact in his community. Brad lived and served internationally for 11 years training others in cross-cultural engagement and communication. Brad believes we are called to love our neighbors, and is passionate about helping to meet the needs of our displaced Ukrainian community here in Austin.
KATE VOINOVA
ANYA HOPP
Born in Eastern Ukraine, Anya saw God bring strength out of her personal trials when she immigrated to America. As a mother of three she understands the challenges of adapting to a new culture. Anya’s journey from her homeland to the U.S. coupled with faith helps her relate with compassion to fellow immigrants as she offers support in navigating the complexities of their new lives. Through her experiences, she has learned that home is more than a place on the map and there’s always hope in the midst of hardship.
SUEZEAN MATARAZZO
Suezean is a passionate filmmaker and community advocate in Austin. As the former CFO of the Austin Film Alliance, she’s been at the forefront of empowering women to take on non-traditional roles within the film sector. Beyond her professional duties, Suezean has played pivotal roles in film-focused nonprofits, serving on the board for Reel Women and contributing as an advisory council member for Our Mission Possible—a visionary initiative bridging the gap between the judicial system and at-risk teens. Additionally, she holds a deep commitment to the local Ukrainian community, actively championing their causes and promoting sponsorship opportunities.
CHERYL CAREY
Cheryl has a heart for being involved in work and ministry that empowers families and strengthens communities. Cheryl, a mother of two, works part-time for a non-profit organization that offers educational scholarships to early childhood educators who care for young children. Cheryl’s family enjoys being outdoors and can often be found at the baseball field on the weekends. Cheryl is grateful to be involved in supporting families from Ukraine because she knows how important relationships and sharing resources are for the well-being of us all.
KATERYNA RIABOKON
Kateryna is a symbol of resilience and compassion. She displayed courage during the onset of the Russian invasion, not only assisting in the war effort but also providing support to refugees within her homeland. Upon relocating to America, her commitment to aiding her fellow Ukrainians remained unwavering. She dedicated herself to crafting and disseminating vital resettlement information, ensuring a smoother transition for those who sought refuge. Kateryna’s journey speaks volumes about her dedication to humanity and her indomitable spirit.
ALINA HAIEVSKA
Originally from Odessa, Ukraine, Alina served her community as a lawyer before the war. Following the invasion, Alina took on the role of a HR Manager at a non-profit, dedicating herself to defending oppressed and persecuted Christians worldwide. This transition marked a continuation of Alina’s deep-rooted commitment to humanitarian efforts, a commitment echoed in her volunteer work aiding the needy and homeless. After moving to the US, she quickly recognized the pressing needs of Ukrainian refugees. Leveraging her skills and experience, Alina became an essential part of the T4U group, aiding newcomers and working diligently to make their transition smoother and less traumatic.
NATHAN MATARAZZO
Nathan is a dedicated advocate with a rich history in the nonprofit sector. For over a decade in Austin, he’s been instrumental in championing employment avenues for disabled veterans and those with disabilities, reflecting his belief in the transformative power of opportunity. Beyond local efforts, Nathan’s compassion stretches across borders. He’s deeply invested in aiding Ukrainian refugees, actively promoting sponsorship programs and ensuring their smooth transition to life in America. Guided by a vision of inclusivity and resilience, Nathan is unwavering in his mission to empower individuals from all walks of life.
SUEZEAN MATARAZZO
Suezean is a passionate filmmaker and community advocate in Austin. As the former CFO of the Austin Film Alliance, she’s been at the forefront of empowering women to take on non-traditional roles within the film sector. Beyond her professional duties, Suezean has played pivotal roles in film-focused nonprofits, serving on the board for Reel Women and contributing as an advisory council member for Our Mission Possible—a visionary initiative bridging the gap between the judicial system and at-risk teens. Additionally, she holds a deep commitment to the local Ukrainian community, actively championing their causes and promoting sponsorship opportunities.
CHERYL CAREY
Cheryl has a heart for being involved in work and ministry that empowers families and strengthens communities. Cheryl, a mother of two, works part-time for a non-profit organization that offers educational scholarships to early childhood educators who care for young children. Cheryl’s family enjoys being outdoors and can often be found at the baseball field on the weekends. Cheryl is grateful to be involved in supporting families from Ukraine because she knows how important relationships and sharing resources are for the well-being of us all.
KATERYNA RIABOKON
Kateryna is a symbol of resilience and compassion. She displayed courage during the onset of the Russian invasion, not only assisting in the war effort but also providing support to refugees within her homeland. Upon relocating to America, her commitment to aiding her fellow Ukrainians remained unwavering. She dedicated herself to crafting and disseminating vital resettlement information, ensuring a smoother transition for those who sought refuge. Kateryna’s journey speaks volumes about her dedication to humanity and her indomitable spirit.
ALINA HAIEVSKA
Originally from Odessa, Ukraine, Alina served her community as a lawyer before the war. Following the invasion, Alina took on the role of a HR Manager at a non-profit, dedicating herself to defending oppressed and persecuted Christians worldwide. This transition marked a continuation of Alina’s deep-rooted commitment to humanitarian efforts, a commitment echoed in her volunteer work aiding the needy and homeless. After moving to the US, she quickly recognized the pressing needs of Ukrainian refugees. Leveraging her skills and experience, Alina became an essential part of the T4U group, aiding newcomers and working diligently to make their transition smoother and less traumatic.
NATHAN MATARAZZO
Nathan is a dedicated advocate with a rich history in the nonprofit sector. For over a decade in Austin, he’s been instrumental in championing employment avenues for disabled veterans and those with disabilities, reflecting his belief in the transformative power of opportunity. Beyond local efforts, Nathan’s compassion stretches across borders. He’s deeply invested in aiding Ukrainian refugees, actively promoting sponsorship programs and ensuring their smooth transition to life in America. Guided by a vision of inclusivity and resilience, Nathan is unwavering in his mission to empower individuals from all walks of life.
Texas for Ukraine is dedicated to fostering a haven of hope and security for Ukrainians seeking refuge in the United States. We are committed to promoting sponsorship and warmly welcoming newcomers to Central Texas, equipping them with essential information and resources. Our mission extends beyond immediate assistance, as we strive to cultivate a tight-knit community that celebrates and perpetuates the rich traditions, language, and customs of the Ukrainian heritage.