Hanul Family Alliance
About Hanul Family Alliance
Founded in 1987 by Dr. Thomas Kim and his wife Mary Kim, Hanul Family Alliance emerged from a vision to improve the quality of life for Korean-American seniors and immigrant families in Chicago, IL. The organization's name itself reflects its core philosophy—Hanul, a Korean word meaning "one large family," represents the agency's commitment to empowering and supporting community members as an extended family unit. What began as the Korean American Senior Center has evolved into a vital resource center serving diverse populations across the Chicago metropolitan area.
Today, Hanul Family Alliance stands as a beacon of hope for low-income, immigrant, and refugee communities throughout Chicago and suburban areas. The organization has grown significantly since its inception, expanding from a single office in Uptown to three convenient locations serving the north side of Chicago, Mt. Prospect, and Lake County. This growth reflects Hanul's adaptive approach to meeting the changing needs of immigrant populations, particularly as communities have shifted toward suburbanization.
The agency's mission centers on providing comprehensive community-based services that enhance the lives of older adults, immigrants, and low-income families. Beyond traditional social services, Hanul functions as a comfort zone and gathering space for seniors, fostering community engagement and cultural connection. The organization's dedication to trust, accountability, and transparent stewardship has made it a cornerstone organization within Chicago's immigrant community for nearly four decades.