Hello friends and family!

I'm fundraising to help Tomas buy a vehicle and start his taxi business!

I met Tomas as I was traveling through Ethiopia. He was an excellent tour guide: caring, attentive, knowledgeable and proud to share the rich history of his country. It was such a blessing to meet him and a joy to keep in touch after I left.

When the pandemic broke out, and soon after that, war, Tomas was no longer able to continue his work as a tour guide. I was able to send some financial assistance from time to time to help him out of dire straits, but his heart's desire is to work and provide for himself and his family.

This enterprising young man has determined that the most attainable way to achieve this goal is by starting his own taxi business.

This is where we come in.

Tomas needs $10,000 to purchase a vehicle. This would give him sustainable work and enable him to achieve his dream of financial stability.

Would you join me in supporting Tomas in achieving this dream?

Your donation would support him in obtaining meaningful work and enable him to provide for his needs and that of his family.

Thank you so much for your support! I'm excited about his future.

For GoFundMe

1. Who you are: I've worked in education for many years. I am now an assistant manager for a youth development program. We support high potential, barrier-facing youth develop job skills and gain independence.

2. Where you're from: The United States of America

3. Your relationship to the parties you're raising funds for and who will be receiving the funds: I met Tomas as I was traveling through Ethiopia. He was working as a tour guide in Lalibela. After I left, we remained in touch. When the pandemic broke out, I was able to send him financial assistance as needed to help him get through dire emergencies.

4. How the funds will be delivered: The funds will be delivered through Remitly, directly into his bank account at the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia.

5. How the funds will be spent (be as specific as possible): Tomas will use the funds to purchase a vehicle to use as a taxi.