about us

---

The Ethiopian Community Association In Arizona (ECAA) was established in 1986 but became active In 1996. It was then that it registered with the Arizona Corporation Commission as a non-profit corporation. It initially focused primarily on assisting newly arriving immigrants and organizing occasional events to get the community together.

Beginning in 2001, it organized and conducted very successful children's program held over the week ends. those who participated in that program have now graduated from such reputable institutions as Harvard, Stanford, Notre Dame, University of Arizona and Arizona State University. They are the pride of our community! 

In early 2019, ECAA went through an extensive assessment to revitalize itself. As a result of that process. ECAA revised its Articles Of Incorporation and Bylaws and, in April 2019, it elected a new, nine-member Board of Directors. It also applied for recognition by the IRS as a 501(c)(3) public charity. It received that recognition in July 2019. 

Through out its existence as a non-profit corporation, ECAA has raised and contributed funds to help those affected by natural and man-made disasters and emergencies in Ethiopia.

ECAA's mission is to build a thriving, empowered , healthy and fully integrated Ethiopian immigrant community that has the capacity to share its culture and values and be a positive and contributing force in the larger community while taking full advantage of the socio-economic, cultural and educational opportunities available in society.

ECAA is served by a Board of Directors. The current Board,  elected on June 12,2022 for a three year term, includes: 

1. Dr. Gebeyehu Ejigu, Chairman
2. Amsalu Belay, V/Chairman
3. Endeshaw Hailu, Secretary
4. Tilahun Wagaye, Treasurer
5. Genet Ejigu, Program Director
6. Gizachew Girmay, Member
7. Mulugeta Bedassa, Member
8. Tejitu Hailu, Member
9. Solomon Yohannes, Member & Internal Auditor
10. Tadesse Alemu. Statutory Agent