Name: Danae Kovac

First KAtCH Event: 
I joined KAtCH in its early days in 2008. My first event was probably at Kim Langrehr or Katie Stefani’s house. 

Where did you grow up/where do you live now? 
I grew up in southwest Michigan and now call Chicago home. 

Tell Us About Yourself: I returned to Korea for the first time in 2006 on a homeland tour, which is where I met Kim Langrehr. Two years later, I joined KAtCH and served on the board (including a short time as President) until 2015. I’ve built my career working at various social justice non-profits in Chicago, and I currently work at HANA Center as the executive director. This summer I had the opportunity to live in Korea for a month and study Korean. I love climbing, baking, playing pungmul (Korean drumming), finding a great deal, and spending time with my friends and nieces and nephews. 

You'll likely KAtCH me doing the following: 
Climbing! Also, playing pungmul and trying to learn/practice/speak more Korean. 

Why do you enjoy being involved with the KAtCH community? 
Through KAtCH I have been able to connect with adoptees from all over the world, and I have developed deep and lasting friendships. The community that we build together is special and an important support for so many adoptees. We are stronger together, and we can use our power to fight for our rights and records as adoptees. 

Favorite restaurant(s) in Chicagoland: 
Too many to name! A few favorites for Korean food include Ban Po Jung, Ssyal, Yeowoosai (of course), Han Bat, Pro Samgyupsal, and New Village Gastropub. 

Find me/social media: