Dear Friends and Supporters of ECF,

Last year we celebrated our 25 years since the Ethiopian Children’s Fund (ECF) first opened its doors, registered in Ethiopia as, ECF Children’s Fund. Throughout the celebrated this journey with a heartfelt anniversary events that brought together our alumni, current students, former teachers, board members, partners, and cherished friends. It was a powerful reminder of how far we’ve come—together.

Since our founding in 1999 with just 77 students, ECF has grown into a beacon of hope and opportunity for thousands of children. With annual enrollment spanning Kindergarten through Grade 8, and with many of our students now completing high school, graduating from university, and entering the workforce, the ripple effect of ECF’s impact is undeniable.

At the heart of this journey is the ECF Village in Aleltu and its Education and Development Program (ECF-EDP), which continues to inspire us all. The courage and determination of the children we serve—many facing extreme poverty—fuels our commitment to expand access and opportunity. As of this year, we’ve surpassed our original goal of reaching 1,000 students, with over 1,600 children having gone through our program. By September 2026, we aim to begin replicating the ECF model in new locations across Ethiopia. Our integrated, holistic approach to education and child development works—and we’re ready to scale it!

We are especially grateful for the unwavering support of our partners. To the Oatiba Family, your generosity over the past 5 years has been extraordinary. Our thanks also go to the Starfish Foundation and Dream (OSF) and for Future Africa Foundation (DFFAF) for your ongoing support of ECF’s Vocational Program over the past 10 year. Through your support, trainings in IT, sewing & design, and videography & photography, we continue to provide life-changing opportunities for students early in life. These programs have become vital stepping stones to independence and dignity.

Our progress has been made possible through the meaningful and dedicated work of our international board—many of whom have been with ECF since its inception, guiding us with unwavering commitment through every challenge and milestone. We are deeply grateful for the collaboration of countless individuals, businesses, development partners, and the communities we serve. It is our collective effort that has brought us to where we are today. We are equally proud that our international team of volunteers continues to serve 100% pro bono—a powerful reflection of the shared belief in and commitment to our mission.

To those who are new to ECF, we welcome you to learn more—whether in person or online. And to those who have walked this path with us, we offer our deepest thanks. Your belief in ECF has changed lives.

We invite all who believe in the power of education to join us in building the next 25 years—together.

With heartfelt gratitude,

Anna Getaneh
Founder, ECF Childrens Fund