Mission Statement of the Albanian American Education Foundation (AAEF)
The Albanian American Education Foundation (AAEF) is the charitable organization affiliated with Albanians For America (AFA) and was established to strengthen the U.S.-Albania and U.S.-Kosovo relationships through education and advocacy. AAEF provides grants and resources to support select educational programs, including Balkan regional research, educational materials, leadership development for university students, and initiatives that promote a deeper understanding of Albania, Kosovo, and the broader Albanian-American community. In addition to supporting AFA’s educational initiatives, AAEF sponsors fact-finding trips to Albania and Kosovo for members of Congress, policymakers, and other political influentials. These AAEF-sponsored trips offer firsthand experiences in the region, expert briefings on Southeast European affairs, and meetings with key political and business leaders to highlight the strategic importance of U.S.-Albanian relations.
Key Activities of AAEF:
- Educational Grants & Research – Funding research on Balkan history, U.S.-Albania relations, and current geopolitical issues and the Albanian-American experience.
- Leadership Development – Organizing programs for university students and young professionals to engage with policymakers and learn about Albanian-American advocacy.
- Conferences & Speaker Events – Hosting events with experts in diplomacy, international relations, and economic development related to Albania and Kosovo.
- Educational Trips – Sponsoring congressional delegations and key influencers to visit Albania and Kosovo for firsthand exposure to the region’s history, progress, and strategic importance.
- Civic Engagement & Policy Education – Providing resources and forums to educate the Albanian-American community on civic participation and U.S. policy toward the Balkans.
To learn more, please contact: [email protected]