The Kean chapter of the United Nations Association of the United States of America is a relativity new organization on Kean's campus. Abbreviated "UNA-USA" for the United Nations Association of the United States of America is a group made up of chapters around the country, with the mission of supporting and advancing the United Nation's global initiatives.

As part of their global mission, UNA-USA works toward inspiring and mobilizing the American people, and gathering more recognition and involvement for the vital projects the United Nations does for the world.

Hasan Tariq is the president of UNA-USA's Kean chapter. Within their chapter, objectives change every semester in order to incorporate all of the United Nations' 17 Sustainable Development Goals. These goals include:

• No poverty
• Zero hunger
• Good health and well being
• Quality education
• Gender equality
• Clean water and sanitation
• Affordable and clean energy
• Decent work and economic growth
• Industry, innovation, and infrastructure
• Reduced inequalities
• Sustainable cities and communities
• Responsible production and consumption
• Climate action
• Life below water
• Life on land
• Peace, justice, and strong institutions
• Partnerships for goals

This semester, UNA-USA's Kean chapter has made their mission to advocate for human rights, promote gender equality and maintain worldwide peace and security.

"The chapter helps members focus on their desire for social service, so they can help better the world. We encourage students to be proactive and socially conscious in every aspect of the society we live in," said Tariq.

UNA-USA's Kean chapter hosts workshops, events and informational sessions in order to accomplish these missions. Additionally, UNA-USA's Kean chapter works closely with the Human Rights Institute on campus, as well as the Center for Interdisciplinary Studies, in order to better meet these goals.

Across the country, there are over 20,000 members within the overall UNA-USA organization, and 60% of the members are under the age of 26. The Kean UNA-USA chapter is part of 200 UNA-USA chapters nationwide.

"UNA-USA members are united in their commitment to global engagement and their belief that each of us can play a part," Tariq said.

The overall UNA-USA also works alongside its partner organization, the Better World Campaign. Together, these two organizations comprise the largest groups of UN advocates in the world.

UNA-USA, at large, is a program under the United Nations Foundation. Collectively, these organizations strive to help people reach their goals and desires to make the world a better place.

Kean's UNA-USA chapter has meetings every Thursday in the Human Rights Institute, Room 207. For more information on how to attend, contact keanuna@kean.edu or reach out to Hasan Tariq, the president of Kean UNA-USA at tariqhas@kean.edu. Sara Compion, the academic adviser, can also be found in the Center for Academic Success, Room 409, for more information.