What We Do
Our Approach
GECI tackles elderly malnutrition differently than traditional aid organizations. Our model is built on four core principles:
1. Cash, Not Charity
We provide direct cash allowances—not food handouts—preserving elder dignity and autonomy. Seniors choose the foods they need and prefer, respecting their knowledge and agency.
2. Community-Led Delivery
Local Ethiopian volunteers who know their communities best identify vulnerable elders and deliver support. This ensures cultural appropriateness and builds sustainable local capacity.
3. Comprehensive Support
Beyond monthly cash assistance, we address root causes: repairing uninhabitable homes, providing temporary shelter for the homeless, and mobilizing community volunteers to offer ongoing care.
4. Maximum Efficiency
Our all-volunteer leadership model means 95% of every dollar reaches programs—earning us Candid’s Platinum Seal of Transparency. Zero executive salaries. Zero waste.
GECI operates four integrated programs:
Monthly cash distribution
We make monthly cash distribution through sponsorship program by connecting each elderly person with the compassionate donors.
Repair inhabitable homes
We assist with repairing inhabitable homes of older people in collaboration with local volunteers.
Provide temporary shelter
We provide temporary shelter for the homeless where we provide food, counseling, and minor medical care.
Support local volunteers
We organize and support local volunteers and groups that help the older people with repairing homes, providing sanitation, and emotional support.
