The World Hug Foundation is an organization which was founded in 2016 with the purpose of helping adoptees without U.S. citizenship. Since the launch of the program in 2017, WHF has provided legal financial assistance for twelve adoptees to review their adoption papers and apply for U.S. citizenship successfully, and five adoptees have received U.S. citizenship from our program. In early 2020, COVID-19 significantly impacted many lives, especially in New York City, the first epicenter. WHF quickly accessed our focus and created programs to help NYC’s financially affected Korean-American communities. WHF has donated more than 850,000 face masks and 70,000 hand sanitizers. Most importantly, WHF has distributed 6,000 food boxes over the 13-month program.
Our Mission
The World Hug Foundation, inspired by the vision of a world where every adoptee is recognized and respected as a full member of society, strives to provide support and advocacy for adoptees without U.S. citizenship, and to educate and empower the public about the adoption issue and its impact on individuals, families, and communities. The World Hug Foundation also extends its compassion and solidarity to the Korean-American communities, especially during the challenging times of the COVID-19 pandemic, by offering humanitarian aid and relief.
Who We Are
John Shin, Executive Director
As Executive Director, John Shin is responsible for overseeing the WHF’s operations and strategic plan. Mr. Shin joined WHF in June 2017, bringing with him a strong background in management, operations, and innovation.
He served as an infantry platoon sergeant in the United States Marine Corps for 4 years. After an honorable discharge, he earned a B.A. in Economics & Accounting from Queens College. He has spent 17 years in various positions with Deloitte, PricewaterhouseCoopers, and Citigroup. He currently serves as an Executive Director at Morgan Stanley for Legal and Compliance.