Problem

Supporting athletics for orphan kids in Ethiopia keeps them off the streets and contributes to their physical and mental health. In the Ethiopian capital, Addis Ababa, orphan teenagers are frequently tempted to commit crimes or engage in prostitution to survive. The Mercy Center, a local agency provides food, education and job training. Participation in the Center's athletics program helps build self-esteem and provides an incentive to stick with the program and break out of poverty.

The Gift

This gift will provide one orphan-athlete with the uniform, shoes and equipment needed to participate in local athletics. It also provides the food needed to maintain a rigorous training program, pay for effective coaching, ensure access to a decent playing field and provide transportation to and from events. Ethiopia is famous for its Olympic runners and athletes. Local kids idolize these champions and want to follow in their footsteps. Supporting an orphan-athlete is unlikely to result in a gold medal, but it will help the kids maintain their grades, a prerequisite for participating in sports, and aid them in developing the teamwork skills and individual character needed to succeed in life and lift themselves and their families out of poverty.