What We Do
Roots Ethiopia works with communities in rural Ethiopia to improve schools, educate children, and enable livelihoods. These are community priorities so they are our priorities.
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Roots Ethiopia works with communities in Ethiopia to turn local ideas into lasting change. We work together to improve schools, educate children, and enable livelihoods. These are community priorities, so they’re our priorities.
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The single biggest way you can help Roots Ethiopia is to give your financial support. When you give, your generosity is immediately put to work to help children and families in rural Ethiopia.
Recent News & Stories
In Ethiopia, countless families face an impossible decision every day: send their children to school hungry, or pull them out of the classroom to work to help feed their families.
A devastating food shortage and deadly malaria outbreak have left families in Ethiopia in urgent need of assistance.
As a supporter of Roots Ethiopia, you know that education and job creation is at the heart of our mission. While we are laser focused on children, education, and moms, we cannot ignore the urgent needs of families facing unexpected crises.
Your Place in The Roots Provides Opportunity for Women and Children in Ethiopia
Roots Ethiopia works with communities in rural Ethiopia to improve schools, educate children, and enable livelihoods. These are community priorities that make a difference.
Frequently Asked Questions
Have you ever had a question and didn’t know where to find the answer? If so, you’ve come to the right place. Here are some things you might not know about Roots Ethiopia.
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The Story Behind Our Logo
Ever wondered about that sweet house on our logo? It’s not just any home – it’s a ‘gojo bet’; a traditional Ethiopian home.
These unique round houses are skillfully crafted from grass, mud, and wood or bamboo. Each region of Ethiopia adds its own character, creating a rich tapestry of architectural styles across the country
The gojo bet logo celebrates the essence of daily life in Ethiopia. When you see the logo, remember – you’re not just looking at a house, you’re experiencing your place in the Roots Ethiopia family!
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What’s the longest walk home from school for a sponsored student?
Meet Dawit, a distance-defying student with a school sponsorship! To the best of our knowledge, Dawit holds the Roots Ethiopia record for the longest walk to school. Every day, he covers an astounding 9km (about 5.5 miles) each way. That’s a round trip of 11 miles a day!
Dawit’s commitment to education is truly inspiring. His journey is a reminder of why we need your support – it’s paving the way for education for students like him. You can make every step count towards a brighter future!
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Did you know Roots Ethiopia delivers support from two locations?
In the capital city of Addis Ababa, the country office is alive with activity. Here, 10 dedicated staff members handle the big picture tasks – from HR to finance. They’re experts at shared leadership, keeping Roots Ethiopia running smoothly.
Five hours away in Durame, the field office is where your support turns into action. Seven caring team members spend their days making a difference. They work directly with kids, families, and schools, bringing generosity to life.
Together, these 17 amazing men and women are the heart of Roots Ethiopia’s every day work, delivering the help you care so much about.
Whether in the city or the countryside, our skilled staff is working towards one goal: changing lives through the gifts you give to support education and job creation. That’s teamwork that shines!
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What does a portrait of Meghan have to do with self-confidence?
Here’s a heartwarming revelation: students have found a unique way to express their appreciation for Roots Ethiopia and for the way supporters are helping create their better futures!
The most recent example includes this touching portrait of Meghan, our Board Chair, that was presented when she visited some students who have school sponsorships.
Each drawing (often it’s a poem, too) is a testament to a student’s talent, keen observations, and the impact your support have on their life.
Student creations are a powerful reminder that your support does more than provide for an education – it fosters creativity, encourages expression, and creates self-confidence.
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A 4WD With A Heart of Gold
Meet “Fikir,” our trusty four-wheel drive! Her name means “love” in Amharic. She lives up to her name! Our helpful driver chose this perfect name because he treats Fikir with so much TLC, you’d think she was made of gold.
Want proof of this vehicular love story? Just peek under Fikir’s hood! Her engine is so clean and shiny, you could eat off it (but please don’t!). This spotless powerhouse keeps Fikir running smoothly on Ethiopia’s toughest roads since 2018.
Fikir carries staff, field materials, your love and support, and often a whole lot of supplies across Ethiopia. Next time you see a picture of gifts put to work in far-flung areas, remember: Fikir has YOUR HELP getting there!
