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FC Provides psychosocial support to persons with disabilities FC, in partnership with universities, has been providing psychosocial support to persons with disabilities, helping them overcome barriers and build their mental resilience. This enabled them to actively participate in community structures and join various social and cultural groups, such as self-help and village-level associations.  Life skill Training FC has been providing life skills training to people with disabilities, enabling them to identify their needs, assess their capabilities, and choose suitable businesses aligned with their abilities and local market demands. The life skill training boosted their confidence, helping them overcome bad feelings.  Need-based business skill training FC has been providing need-based business skill training to persons with disabilities and families of children with disabilities, focusing on entrepreneurship and vocational skills. As a result, they have successfully engaged in various income-generating activities, both individually and in groups, primarily through self-employment. Provision of assistive devices FC collaborated with stakeholders to enhance accessibility and reduce barriers for persons with disabilities by providing assistive devices. These efforts have empowered PWD’s to improve mobility, pursue education, and engage in livelihood activities.  Startup capital FC provided startup capital to persons with disabilities and families of children with disabilities to address barriers in accessing financial services and livelihood opportunities. This support enabled them to start income-generating activities and enhance their participation in community and economic structures, fostering empowerment and self-reliance. Facilitating Advocacy workshop FC has been facilitating advocacy workshops with stakeholders, including MFIs, OPDs, and TVETs, leading to the signing of Memorandums of Understanding (MoUs) to promote inclusive services for persons with disabilities. These agreements resulted in budget allocations to adapt services and products to meet the needs of persons with disabilities.  Thanks to all our stakeholders, especially Light for the World, for making it possible to reach this milestone in empowering persons with disabilities.

Jimma Zone, Oromia National Regional State, June 1, 2024 – Today marks the official launch of the Sheneni Integrated Community Development Consolidation Phase (Phase III) Project, a critical initiative aimed at further enhancing the lives of children and communities in Seka and Mana Woredas of Jimma Zone.   Building on the success of the previous phases, Phase III of the Sheneni Integrated Community Development Project will continue to focus on creating a child-friendly environment and improving the socioeconomic conditions of the local population. This phase is especially significant as it consolidates previous efforts, ensuring sustainable and long-lasting benefits for the community.   The project, generously funded by Kindernothilfe (KNH) with a total budget of 36,294,630.84, will be implemented over the next five years, from April 2024 to March 2029. Phase III of the project has been developed based on the findings phase II project and recommendations provided by the stakeholders, and communities. The Sheneni Integrated Community Development Project will work closely with community-based organizations (CBOs), smallholder farmers, women, children, schools, and other stakeholders in the project area. By engaging these groups, the project aims to achieve its objectives through a collaborative and inclusive approach.   Phase III will focus on consolidating gains from previous phases by enhancing community participation, improving access to essential services, and promoting sustainable livelihood opportunities. The emphasis will be on ensuring that the benefits of the project are deeply rooted in the community, leading to continuing positive changes.   During the launch event, representatives from local government, community and children representatives, and partner organizations expressed their enthusiasm and commitment to the project’s goals. The project is expected to bring about significant positive changes, including better access to quality education, Social and Economic Empowerment of Vulnerable women, Promotion of children’s Rights, House Hold Food Security and Market Promotion, and enhanced economic opportunities for families.   As Phase III begins, the Sheneni Integrated Community Development Project looks forward to furthering its objective of creating a brighter, more sustainable future for children and their communities.

Addis Ababa, March 23, 2024 – Facilitator for Change commemorated a quarter-century of impactful service to the community with a grand celebration marking its 25th anniversary. The event, held at Sapphire Addis Hotel, drew attention to the organization’s remarkable journey and its contributions towards sustainable development. Established in 1998 G.C, the Facilitator for Change had been at the forefront of various initiatives aimed at addressing pressing issues such as child rights violations, access to quality education, limited participation of women in social and economic development, agricultural practices, livelihood improvements, food security, sustainable land management, and more. Over the past 25 years, the FC has touched countless lives, bringing positive change to individuals and communities in Ethiopia. The anniversary event was a testament to the dedication and hard work of the FC’s founders, staff, boards, donors, and stakeholders who had remained committed to its mission throughout the years. It served as a moment of reflection on past achievements and a catalyst for renewed determination to tackle future challenges. Attendees at the celebration included government officials, partner organizations, boards of directors, beneficiaries of the FC’s programs, donors, as well as current and former members of the FC’s team. The event featured speeches, panel discussions, exhibitions highlighting the organization’s milestones, impact stories, anniversary cake cutting, and recognition of contributors. We were immensely proud to mark this significant milestone in our journey. The past 25 years have been a testament to the power of collective action and the unwavering spirit of compassion. As we celebrated our achievements, we also looked forward to continuing our mission of making a meaningful difference in the lives of those in need. The anniversary celebration not only honored the legacy of the NGO but also served as an opportunity to express gratitude to all those who had supported its cause over the years. It reinforced the organization’s commitment to serving the community with integrity, passion, and innovation for many more years to come. Please download the FC booklet here. https://drive.google.com/file/d/1We5wQtfKRXwtLGccK3qvN6Cwl4BJk8OK/view?usp=sharing

FC has contributed markedly to its mandate by empowering smallholder farmers, women, youth, and children across Amhara and Oromia region through promoting child protection and development, promoting innovative agricultural practices, socio-economic empowerment of women, promoting sustainable land management and conservation, and other cross-cutting issues that benefit the communities.