International Assistance Program - Partnering For Change

Ethiopia is a country rich in history and resources. IAP is seeking to preserve this culture and empower its people along the way.

An hour

These faces scatter the countryside, eager to great you with warmth and hospitality.

Dusk falls on a town poised for prosperity, if given such an opportunity.

Walking these roads and sharing life with the Ethiopian people builds relationship and transforms lives.

At a break in the trees, God

There is sense of community in Ethiopia not readily found in the western world. Conversation is cherished and relationship is key to the survival of these people.

Though westerners stand out in a crowd, they are welcomed as family.

A mother is hard at work with her child, providing as best she can for her family.

As a loan recipient, this woman has been successful with her business. Opening first a small store followed by an eatery and 3-room motel.

Eager to please God, the business is dedicated to God and His provision and blessing are sought.

Husband and wife work in tandem to meet the needs of their family by brokering commodities to the local market.

Smiles and the warmth of a hug seem to always bridge the language barrier.

A community of hard-working individuals and families.

This is the typical homestead of an Ethiopian family. An entire family shares this one-room hut.

There are beggars on most corners, it is difficult to walk by and give only a smile.

In years past, families would meet beneath these trees to pray and worship.

As the moon rises, temperatures cool across this rugged landscape.

A shaded cafe awaits its morning guests.

This is a major trade route, stretching from Egypt to South Africa, during a rare break in traffic.

Ethiopia is a land of extremes.

Hope you brought enough biscuits for everyone.

A rare photo opportunity, as photographs of government facilities and officials are strictly prohibited.

Made from a grain called tef, ingera is the national food of Ethiopia. Due to recent famine, tef supply is down and food costs are increasing.

Ethiopia

Thirteen steps symbolize the number of years that Ethiopia was subjected to Italian occupation. The &quot;Lion of Judah&quot; sits atop Step 14.

As IAP gives support and guidance, we are careful to be sensitive to Ethiopian business practices and cultural differences.

There is no question concerning the work ethic and perseverance of the Ethiopian people. Their survival depends on it.

This woman, along with hundreds of others, climb this mountain on a daily basis to collect firewood.

This city, with a population of 2.7 million, is the hub of Africa, providing great potential for future opportunity.

As the sun lowers in the sky, we are reminded of why IAP exists and what binds us with others around the world.