About Us
Who We Are
Selam Sisters is a registered nonprofit association founded in August 2005 in Los Angeles, California by a group of Ethiopian women united by a shared commitment to uplifting communities in Ethiopia.
The organization collaborates with carefully vetted charitable partners that implement impactful and sustainable initiatives on the ground in Ethiopia. These partners are selected based on their demonstrated effectiveness, strong governance, financial accountability, and commitment to ensuring that 100% of donations are directed toward designated programs. Their values closely align with our mission and long-term vision for meaningful and sustainable change.
Selam Sisters is dedicated to addressing the root causes of poverty by supporting initiatives in education, healthcare, and community development. Central to our work is providing a platform for Ethiopian-led organizations to amplify their voices, showcase their impact, and secure the funding and visibility necessary to expand their reach and deepen their impact.
Our Mission
We are committed to transforming the lives of vulnerable children in Ethiopia by expanding access to education and supporting families with compassionate care that honors their dignity and strengthens their future.
Our Vision
We envision a future in which every child and family in Ethiopia is supported, empowered, and full embraced by a compassionate and connected community.
Why Ethiopia ?
Ethiopia, like many nations in Sub-Saharan Africa, continues to face deep-rooted poverty despite experiencing steady economic growth since 2008. According to the World Bank, nearly 40% of the population lives on less than $1.25 a day.
This widespread poverty has a profound impact on children across the country, from rural villages to urban centers. Many are exposed to preventable diseases due to limited access to clean water and basic sanitation. Additionally, Ethiopia has one of the largest orphan populations in the world.
An estimated 13% of children—approximately 4.6 million—have lost one or both parents, with 800,000 orphaned due to HIV/AIDS. In the capital, Addis Ababa, over 30% of girls between the ages of 10 and 14 do not live with their parents, leaving them vulnerable to exploitation and abuse (UNICEF).
Active Members
All positions within the Selam Sisters Association are held on a voluntary basis. As such, 100% of donations and membership fees go directly toward supporting meaningful projects and charitable initiatives. The Selam Sisters Association operates independently of any ethnic, religious, or political affiliations.