Welcome
Breaking Chains. Building Futures.
Empowering refugees and young leaders through education, advocacy, and opportunity.
Our Mission
Freedom Creates Possibility
For people who have lived under oppression, freedom is more than an idea—it is the opportunity to learn, speak, dream, and build a future of their own. Broken Chains supports refugees, defectors, and young people whose education and opportunities have been limited by authoritarian systems. We connect them with resources, encouragement, and opportunities that help them move forward with confidence.
Learn more about our work →
What We Do
Programs & Services
Education and Scholarships
We help students pursue educational opportunities, develop professional skills, and prepare for successful, independent futures.
Youth Leadership Development
We equip young people with the knowledge, confidence, and leadership skills needed to advocate for freedom and serve their communities.
Human-Rights Education and Advocacy
Through school presentations, public speaking, community events, and educational programs, we raise awareness about life under authoritarian regimes and the importance of protecting freedom.
Mentorship and Career Development
We connect participants with mentors, professional guidance, entrepreneurship education, and resources that support long-term success.
Emergency and Practical Assistance
When resources are available, we help eligible individuals facing urgent educational, personal, or healthcare-related needs.
From Survival to Leadership
Our Founder
Grace Jo
Broken Chains was founded by Grace Jo, a North Korean refugee, human-rights advocate, and educator. After experiencing hunger, family separation, forced repatriation, and years of living without legal protection, Grace arrived in the United States as a refugee. Freedom gave her the opportunity to rebuild her life, receive an education, and become a voice for others who remain unheard. Her journey inspired a mission: to help survivors of oppression move beyond survival and become strong, independent leaders who can shape a freer future.
Meet Grace JoWhy Broken Chains?
More than an escape from oppression.
A broken chain represents the beginning of a new life. It means breaking the chains of fear, silence, poverty, discrimination, and limited opportunity. It also represents the courage to reclaim one's voice, pursue an education, build a career, and contribute to society. At Broken Chains, we believe every person deserves the freedom to dream—and the opportunity to turn that dream into reality.
Featured Stories
Witness Project
VOC highlights the tragic and powerful stories of victims of communism through our award-winning Witness Project video and podcast series.
WEBN-TV Boston @ Emerson College — Reporter Rob Way met a woman who suffered the unthinkable before finally escaping North Korea.
A powerful story of survival and resilience.
Voices of freedom — witness testimonies.
Capturing Our Mission
A Photo Story of Broken Chains
Voices of impact
Lives Changed, Chains Broken
Hear from the people whose lives have been transformed through the Broken Chains Foundation.
“The Broken Chains Foundation gave me more than resources — they gave me hope and a community that believed in me when I couldn't believe in myself.”
Sarah K.
Program Participant
“Grace Jo and her team are tireless advocates. Their work with North Korean defectors is unlike anything I've seen — deeply personal and profoundly effective.”
Dr. James L.
Partner Organization
“I came to this country with nothing. Broken Chains helped me find my voice, finish my education, and build a future I never thought possible.”
Min J.
Program Graduate
“Volunteering with Broken Chains changed my perspective on human rights. The foundation's commitment to dignity and freedom is evident in every program they run.”
Rachel M.
Volunteer
“As a donor, I've seen firsthand how every dollar is used with purpose and care. This organization truly walks the talk of freedom and dignity.”
Thomas W.
Supporter
“The leadership development program opened doors I didn't know existed. I now mentor others who were once in my shoes.”
David C.
Program Alumni
Help Us Build a Freer Future
Your support can help provide education, mentorship, leadership training, advocacy programs, and practical assistance to individuals rebuilding their lives after oppression. Together, we can break chains, restore hope, and prepare a new generation of leaders.
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Stay Connected
Join our community and receive updates about our programs, events, advocacy work, and the people whose lives are being transformed.
Broken Chains is a DBA of Grace Jo Foundation, Inc., a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization. Contributions are tax-deductible to the extent permitted by law.