Founded on August 15, 1990, KAN-WIN emerged from the vision of women's advocates and social service providers responding to urgent needs within the Korean American community of Park Ridge, Illinois and surrounding areas. The organization's name reflects its evolution—originally established as Korean American Women In Need, it became KAN-WIN to honor the increasingly diverse clientele it serves across Asian American communities and beyond. Rooted in the belief that happiness increases and pain decreases when shared with others, KAN-WIN operates as a compassionate companion to survivors navigating their journey toward freedom and healing. The organization's mission centers on eradicating gender-based violence through culturally competent services, meaningful community engagement, and advocacy that addresses systemic barriers. KAN-WIN's values emphasize survivor agency and centricity, recognizing that each survivor possesses the capacity to achieve independence and should direct their own path to healing. The organization embraces intersectionality and equity, understanding that oppression in all forms is interconnected and requires holistic, culturally specific approaches. Grounded in community-based solutions and cultural humility, KAN-WIN works in partnership with the communities it serves, building relationships founded on trust and solidarity. The agency's commitment to resilience and sustainability ensures continued dedication to creating safe, healthy communities free from violence and oppression where all individuals, especially historically marginalized women and children, can reach their full potential.
Park Ridge, IL