When Illia Yamchuk began working with Lutheran Services in Iowa (LSI) in early 2023, he stepped into a role that would soon become indispensable to hundreds of Ukrainians rebuilding their lives in the state.

As a caseworker supporting Ukrainian newcomers through resettlement, Illia brings a blend of professional dedication, cultural understanding, and personal motivation—qualities that have made him a trusted advocate for Iowa’s rapidly growing Ukrainian community.

Born in Ukraine, Illia arrived in the United States years before the war, working in the arts as a professional dancer and singer.

When Russia’s full-scale invasion began in 2022, Illia saw an influx of need for Ukrainian speakers to assist with LSI’s resettlement program, and he joined the program using his dual Russian and Ukrainian language skills to assist newcomers with navigating the bureaucratic hurdles and cultural differences of life in the United States.

“The war is not over, and we still need to support each other, and we have some responsibility,” Illia said, “No one is going to take care of us, so we need to stay strong.”

Illia describes his earliest days at LSI as a crash course in immigration systems, public benefits, and bureaucratic hurdles—none of which he had a background in before starting with LSI. But with each new client came a sharper understanding of how complicated resettlement can be.

Illia’s work goes far beyond paperwork and bureaucracy. He helps families from Ukraine understand how the system works—how to pay taxes, take English classes, understand the law, keep their driver’s licenses and work authorization up to date, find employment and provide for their families. Beyond that, he seeks to build a supportive community for newcomers, helping them navigate life in the U.S. with confidence and independence.

Ukrainian newcomers often arrive without a built-in community, Illia explained. “Iowa may not have a large immigrant community compared to other places, but I’m glad to see more diversity as people move here, especially from Ukraine.”

One of the highlights of his work was the Ukrainian Independence Day gathering in August 2025, organized by Illia with LSI and the local Ukrainian community. Even though it was planned at the last minute due to funding uncertainties, over 200 people attended.

The gathering featured tabling from the lowa Migrant Movement for Justice, LSI programs, and DMACC. Ukrainian bakeries contributed pastries, community members brought dishes for a potluck, and children played while adults shared stories, many meeting fellow Ukrainians for the first time.

"It felt amazing to see everyone together. I knew almost everyone from working with them, events, phone calls, or emails, but they didn't know each other, so it was special to see those connections happen," Illia shared.

Despite policy shifts, long waits for paperwork, and community fears about immigration enforcement, Illia remains optimistic.

His main goal moving forward is simple: continue educating, continue connecting, and continue building a resilient Ukrainian community in Iowa. Illia hopes to organize more gatherings, legal clinics, and information sessions to ensure families remain informed and supported.

“I stay hopeful about the future,” Illia said. “It’s important not to let fear take over — to keep a clear mind, stay positive, remain connected to the community and stay informed by understanding and following the law.”