Edna Foundation USA

About EDNA Foundation

Empowering children with Physical Impairments and vulnerable communities through care, education, and opportunity.

About EDNA Foundation

Who We Are

EDNA FOUNDATION (EF) is a registered non-profit organization dedicated to supporting children with Physical Impairments and vulnerable women across Ethiopia.

Founded in September 2020 and officially registered as a Civil Society Organization (CSO) on September 19, 2023, the foundation works to ensure that those we serve have access to the resources, care, and opportunities they need to thrive.

Our mission is rooted in compassion, inclusion, and a commitment to building a better future for every child.

Our Approach

EDNA Foundation was created in loving memory of EDNA, a bright and courageous child whose life continues to inspire our work today.

Born on February 6, 2004, in Los Angeles, USA, EDNA was the cherished only child of her parents. She was joyful, intelligent, and full of life.

OUR STORY

At the age of one, she began showing signs of illness and was later diagnosed with Spinal Muscular Atrophy (SMA), a condition that required her to use a wheelchair. Despite this challenge, EDNA remained full of hope, strength, and determination.

She was a gifted student, fluent in English, Amharic, and Tigrigna, and she dreamed of becoming a doctor to help children like herself.

Sadly, EDNA passed away on February 23, 2012. But her dream lives on.

In honor of her vision, her parents established EDNA Foundation to support children with Impairments by providing healthcare, education, and opportunities to live dignified and fulfilling lives.

Our Mission

“Building paths to self-reliance and dignity.” To empower children with physical impairments and vulnerable women by providing access to optimal healthcare, inclusive education, and social protection. We are dedicated to fostering independence and dignity, enabling our beneficiaries to become thriving, self-reliant members of their communities.

Our Vision

“A society where every child is seen, supported, and included.” To see a world where children with physical impairments are empowered, protected, and fully integrated into all aspects of life, ensuring their disability never defines their potential or their future in Ethiopia.

Our Core Values

As a registered CSO, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of accountability. We manage our resources with honesty and ensure that our donors, partners, and the families we support have clear insight into our impact and financial stewardship.

Compassion

We serve with empathy and care

Inclusion

Every child deserves equal opportunity

Integrity

Transparency and accountability in all we do

Community

Building strong and supportive networks

OUR WORK & FOCUS AREAS

Our work is focused on creating meaningful and lasting impact in the lives of children with physical impairments and vulnerable communities. Through targeted programs and partnerships, we address key areas that promote dignity, inclusion, and self-reliance.

Promote social inclusion and awareness
Support healthcare and rehabilitation services
Offer vocational training and skill development
Provide access to education and learning opportunities

The Edna Village: Our Vision for the Future

We are thrilled to share the proposed master plan for Edna Village, currently awaiting final land approval from the government. This dedicated center of care will include a health center, inclusive school, research facilities, and residential areas designed specifically for children with physical impairments and their families

LEGAL & TRANSPARENCY

EDNA Foundation is a legally registered Civil Society Organization (CSO) in Ethiopia. We are committed to maintaining transparency, accountability, and responsible use of all funds to ensure maximum impact for the communities we serve.

Be Part of the Change

Join us in continuing EDNA’s legacy and creating a brighter future for children in need.

Our Partners

We collaborate with respected institutions and organizations to create meaningful impact

Mekelle University

Institution of Population Studies

Ethiopian Community Development Council

National NGO

Health Bureau

Tigray Region

Education Bureau

Tigray Region

Women Affairs Bureau

Tigray Region

Social Affairs Bureau

Tigray Region

Deborah Foundation

Local NGO

OSSHD

Local NGO