Here’s an exciting opportunity, courtesy of our friends at Hopethiopia!

“Hopethiopia is having a great year and God is blessing our paths. We are involved in many initiatives and projects in both Ethiopia and Rwanda.

Many people ask about ways that they can help, so we have created a unique opportunity for everyone to participate. On September 24th, 2011 we will be hosting the first ever “Run of Hope”. This will be a fundraiser event to help us raise awareness and funds to help with projects in Ethiopia and Rwanda. With some of the proceeds, we will build 2 orphan homes in Ethiopia in November 2011.

Our goal will be to have at least 100 participants each committed to raise $1,000.00 each. The event will be a 1, 2, 5, or 10km walk, run, or skate. It will be a lot of fun, a great way to promote a healthy lifestyle, and show that you care. We encourage all to participate no matter what age or level of fitness; kids are welcome to join in with their parents! The funds will go to a great cause and you will truly be making a massive difference in the lives of orphans that are in great need.”  ~ Ralph, Hopethiopia co-founder

To register for the ‘Run of Hope’, send an email to Ralph and he will provide you with additional event details, as well as a pledge form to get started with fundraising!

From visiting Melaku’s remote village on a mountain side at 10,500 feet to walking in the front doors of the palace of the president of Ethiopia, it was very evident that God’s favour was upon us. No matter where we went we were greeted with enthusiasm and love. The Ethiopian’s are a very kind and loving people and it was an honour to be able to present the vision of Hopethiopia to them.

Ethiopia is a very blessed nation and it also is facing some enormous challenges. We were able to see with our own eyes these different blessings and concerns and see how we might be able to come alongside the people and provide some support.

Every aspect of this mission trip was far exceeded. We went with the request of finding at least 4000 acres of land to start this project on. The government and President provided in excess of 8000+ acres in different sites. Joint meetings were set up with the different levels of government so that all could be present at the same time. Pastor Tolosa and a few others said that was a total miracle and have never seen such cooperation as well as immediate granting of lands. Praise God.

We were able to visit 9 different orphanages across Ethiopia and Uganda and get to understand the many different models and benefits and disadvantages of each location. We saw the different building concepts, home styles and management, get into infrastructure and finances, as well as see the heart of each organization. They were all extremely cooperative and supportive.

As you can imagine there is an enormous amount of work ahead. We have to finalize the details of setting up the NGO in Canada as well as setting up a foreign NGO in Ethiopia. Then we will continue the planning meetings to work out designs, models, etc. for all the different apects of this project. I know that many have asked about volunteering for the different parts of the project; the community project for orphan’s and seniors, the agricultural project, the reforrestation project, and the Peace Garden project. Also many have asked how to support financially. We are working on the different aspects of Hopethiopia and will keep you informed. If you feel that at some point you really want to participate email me and let me know how you might come alongside. Periodically check out the wesite www.hopethiopia.com and see how things are developing.

Again, many thanks to all and please continue to keep us and Ethiopia in your prayers.

Much love to all and to God be all the Glory,

Ralph