Fundraising for a future 100-child campaign in Addis Ababa
About ACOH
Abyssinia Children of Hope is a U.S.-registered nonprofit preparing a family-centered support program for vulnerable children in Addis Ababa.
Our story
ACOH is a growing, community-based nonprofit and non-governmental public benefit organization established on August 6, 2020.
ACOH is registered with the U.S. Internal Revenue Service under EIN 35-2690018.
The organization was founded in response to the urgent needs of children in Ethiopia who face extreme poverty, abandonment, lack of shelter, limited access to education, and inadequate medical care.
ACOH restores hope, dignity, and opportunity through essential support services and long-term developmental programs.
To give hope to orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable children by providing a pathway out of poverty through care, support, and education. We empower children to overcome life's harshest challenges by helping them build self-belief, confidence, and resilience, while nurturing both their spiritual and physical well-being.
A world where every orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable child grows up with hope, dignity, opportunity, and the confidence to build a successful future.
Founder and Executive Director
Executive Director
“To help others, all we need is a kind heart.”
Meselu Kebede is the founder and Executive Director of Abyssinia Children of Hope (ACOH), a nonprofit organization dedicated to supporting orphaned, abandoned, and vulnerable children in Ethiopia. Originally from Ethiopia and now based in Columbus, Ohio, Meselu has devoted her life to creating opportunities for children who face hunger, poverty, and lack of access to education.
As a mother and grandmother, Meselu brings deep compassion, strength, and understanding to her work. She founded ACOH with a clear mission: to provide children with food, education, healthcare, emotional support, and a safe environment where they can grow and thrive. Her leadership is rooted in faith, community, and a strong belief that every child deserves hope and a future.
Through her vision and dedication, ACOH is growing into a life-changing support system for children in Addis Ababa. Meselu works tirelessly to build partnerships, raise funds, and develop sustainable programs that directly impact children and strengthen families.
Her passion continues to inspire donors, volunteers, and partners around the world to join her in transforming lives and building a brighter future for the next generation.
Governance
The Board of Directors provides governance, financial oversight, and organizational stewardship.
Treasurer
Board member
Board member
Board member
What guides the work
ACOH connects urgent care with education, child protection, personal development, and stronger family and community support.
Provide safe shelter, food, clothing, and medical care to vulnerable children.
Expand access to quality education and life-skills training.
Support children's emotional, spiritual, and psychological development.
Protect children from exploitation, trafficking, and abuse.
Build long-term programs that break cycles of poverty.
Strengthen community awareness and involvement in child protection.
Verified organization information
U.S. 501(c)(3) tax-exempt organization