What We Do
Our Approach
GECI uses a locally led, dignity-centered approach to support vulnerable elders in Nekemte, Ethiopia. Our model is built on four core principles:
1. Direct Assistance and Personal Choice
Monthly cash assistance allows elders to purchase food and other necessities based on their individual needs and local availability. This approach preserves choice, independence, and dignity.
2. Community-Based Delivery
Local volunteers and community partners help identify elders with the greatest needs, distribute assistance, document program activities, and monitor participants’ well-being.
3. Support Beyond Food
When resources are available, GECI also helps address unsafe housing, homelessness, basic healthcare needs, hygiene, and social isolation.
4. Responsible Stewardship
GECI is led by unpaid officers and directors. Approximately 95% of expenses supported programs during [insert applicable year]. Financial reports and Form 990 filings are available through our Financial Transparency page.
GECI operates four integrated programs:
Monthly Cash Assistance
Sponsors help fund monthly cash allowances for eligible elders. Local representatives coordinate distributions and maintain documentation supporting the amounts delivered to program participants.
Essential Home Repairs
GECI works with local volunteers to complete essential repairs to homes that are unsafe or severely deteriorated, subject to available funding.
Temporary Shelter Support
We help homeless elders obtain temporary shelter and connect them with food, basic healthcare, counseling, or other community services when available.
Community Volunteer Support
| We equip and coordinate local volunteers who identify vulnerable elders, assist with distributions and home repairs, provide companionship, and monitor ongoing needs. |
