United Nations Association of the National Capital Area

Empowering the Next Generation of Global Leaders through Model United Nations - using an original curriculum, year-round programming, and Model UN simulations, the Global Classrooms DC (GCDC) program prepares the next generation of global citizens by engaging middle and high school students across the DMV region in a comprehensive global education experience. GCDC reached 1335 students and 70 educators across 61 schools during the 2023-2024 school year and is focused upon increasing the participation of students enrolled at title 1 schools (currently account for 17.6% of GCDC participants), and improving equity and access for all aspiring diplomats. Bringing Professional Development Opportunities to Students and Young professionals - over 60% of UNA-NCA membership is comprised of young professionals and students. UNA-NCA's young professionals program (YPP) provides a unique forum for learning about international issues, engaging in professional development, and participating in mentoring opportunities. The YPP's career dinners is the signature program, engaging youth, early and mid-career professionals with experts in a variety of fields. Advocating for the UN Principles - the Advocacy Program engages senior leaders and the public alike in various initiatives to support U.S. leadership in the UN. This includes training and outreach to congressional leaders as well as local advocacy initiatives. In 2023, UNA-NCA supported passage by the District of Columbia of a measure to foster gender equity and end all forms of discrimination against women. Localizing the Sustainable Development Goals - the Global Goals at Home (GGH) Program (https://globalgoalsathome.org) interactive platform offers stakeholders new ways of collaborating, exchanging resources, and advancing their shared goals: to eliminate poverty in the DMV, end hunger and food insecurity for DMV residents, raise health awareness, provide for quality education, gender equality, clean water, affordable and clean energy in the DMV. So far in 2023, GGH has secured over 50 partner organizations interested in using the program's platform. GGH started a partnership collaboration with Accenture, Inc. Celebrating UN Day- each October, UNA-NCA commemorates the anniversary of the United Nations through special programming involving high-level speakers who engage in a discussion of relevant issues. Deepening Graduate Students' Understanding of the UN - the Graduate Fellows Program engages graduate students from DMV-area universities in a weekly seminar alongside senior U.S. and UN officials to discuss pressing un-related issues. Fellows also engage in career development and mentoring opportunities. Honoring Human Rights Champions - each December, UNA-NCA hosts its human rights awards reception commemorating the UN General Assembly's adoption of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights and promoting racial and gender equity, by presenting awards to individuals and organizations that have made substantial contributions in the field of human rights. In 2023 awardees included Georgetown Law Juvenile Justice Clinic and initiative, director Kristin Henning.