| About Us
The Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago (ECAC) is a non-profit, charitable organization committed to serving the cultural, psychological and socio-economic needs of refugees and immigrants in and around metropolitan Chicago. In addition to assisting native Ethiopians, ECAC also supports other African, Asian, Middle Eastern and Eastern European refugee populations who seek its services. Established in 1984, ECAC assists in the promotion of personal growth, financial stability, positive family and community relations and community empowerment. The adjustment and development of all of ECAC^s constituents is facilitated with programs in the areas of advocacy, education, employment, healthcare and community outreach
The Ethiopian Community Association is currently managed by Executive Director and Co-founder of the organization, Dr. Erku Yimer. In addition, ECAC is staffed by eight full time employees who provide services including reception and placement, health outreach, English-as-a-second language and civic education, employment training and after-school programming. An elected board of directors set the policies and oversee program and financial operations for ECAC. Members represent the various ethnic, religious and age groups within the Ethiopian community of Chicago. Finally, an Advisory Board composed of educators, businessmen and skilled professionals is set up to assist and consult with the Board of Directors.
Volunteers are also important to ECAC. A core of Ethiopian and American volunteers provide assistance and support in the areas ranging from orienting refugees to tutorial assistance; from clerical duties to providing technological assistance and teaching computer classes. If you would like to volunteer, or if you require more information regarding volunteer opportunities with the Ethiopian Community Association, please click here.
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ECAC has served approximately 10,000 clients. Currently, we serve nearly 3,000 immigrants and refugees annually.
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Since 1991, ECAC has sponsored and successfully resettled approximately 1,300 refugees from Africa, South East Asia, the Middle East, Eastern Europe and the Caribbean.
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Advocated for increased African refugee admissions to the United States and for greater protection of refugees in American camps. Significant results have been achieved.
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Advocated with others for affordable housing and home ownership for immigrants and refugee families. This resulted in the construction of 26 brand-new homes, as well as the redevelopment of 500 affordable housing units.
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Collaborated with other agencies and developed programs that address the needs of a more settles communities. Initiatives include vocational training, career counseling and entrepreneurship.
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Organized a computer-training program for immigrants and refugees.
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Strengthened and expanded the youth development and recreation program into an after-school program that offers homework help/tutoring, sports, games and art activities.
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Instituted Ethiopian holiday and New Year celebrations across the Midwest. These events have been highly acclaimed as opportunities for Ethiopians to share their experiences and affirm their cultural identity.
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Embarked on the construction of a cultural center that will house both new and expanding services. Initiatives to be introduced there include a childcare facility and a cultural and historical museum. Capital campaigns are being successfully conducted.
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Ethiopian Community Association of Chicago
1730 W. Greenleaf, Chicago, IL 60626 |
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