Wow! We are sincerely humbled by the outpour of support we received these past few weeks by Eritreans and friends of Eritreans in the diaspora. As this was our first targeted organizational fundraising effort, the outcome was difficult to predict, but were blown away by the overwhelming positive response we received. Ambitiously, we decided to take on 2 simultaneous fundraising efforts during this holiday season, and we are thrilled to say that they were both a true success.
Having just launched our newest program geared at integrating recently arrived Eritreans into the broader community, we partnered with International Rescue Committee (IRC) of Baltimore to try and pinpoint the unique needs of this underserved group of individuals. With the help of IRC, we were able to determine that many families were unable to meet their basic necessities, and meeting those necessities was a gap that EDN could help fill. On Wednesday, November 26, we hosted a Thanksgiving fundraiser at Dahlak Restaurant (DC), and with your help we were able to raise $1,081! 100% of those proceeds will be dedicated to an emergency fund established to help recently arrived Eritrean families pay their utility bills this winter.
In addition to such targeted giving efforts, we realize how imperative it is that that EDN positions itself as a sustainable organization. Fulfilling our goal of building a stronger Eritrean diaspora community requires establishing a solid foundation. Hence, EDN launched a #GivingTuesday campaign this year, and invited our supporters to participate in a remarkable global day of giving. #GivingTuesday contributions well exceeded our expectations, and we were able to raise $3,055! Money raised through this campaign will directly fund initiatives aligned to our Recent Arrival Support, Professional Development, and Civic Engagement programs. More details to come early next year that will further explain our current initiatives and workplan.
EDN is entirely a volunteer-run organization, and every dollar raised directly impacts our ability to fulfill our mission. Thank you to all of our supporters for your generosity. Your unwavering support will allow EDN to continue our commitment to transforming the Eritrean Diaspora community through solidarity and goodwill.