ECAO
Eritrean Community
Association of Oregon
Empowering and Uplifting the Eritrean Community in Oregon. Providing educational support, cultural events, and community services.
Our Vision
By investing in our community center, with the support of grants and funding, we inspire to create an integrated approach that empowers each person. We strive to build a stronger, more resilient community where everyone has the opportunity to flourish and succeed as a member of the community.
Expand our reach and impact, ensuring that no one in our community is left without the resources they need to thrive.
Develop new programs that address emerging community needs and foster a sense of belonging and empowerment.
Create a sustainable and inclusive environment where all members of our community can access the support and services they need to succeed.
Foster a culture of collaboration, where partnerships with local organizations, businesses, and leaders create lasting solutions for the challenges faced by our community.
Strengthen our community’s resilience through ongoing education, mentorship, and leadership development, ensuring future generations are equipped to lead and contribute to our collective growth.
We are a nonprofit organization offering a variety of programs and services to meet the needs of our community.
Refugee Transition Program
The Refugee Transition Program in the Eritrean community provides essential support to newly arrived refugees as they adjust to life in the U.S. This program offers resources such as language assistance, job placement, and housing support, while also helping individuals navigate cultural differences and build a sense of belonging. By connecting newcomers with mentors and community services, the program aims to empower refugees to achieve independence and thrive in their new environment, all while staying connected to their Eritrean roots.
Youth Program: Children & Youth Ages 5 to 17
The ECAO’s youth program fosters pride in Eritrean identity by passing on language and traditions, bridging generational gaps, and strengthening community bonds. Established in 1988, the Tigrinya School offers weekly classes where students of all levels learn reading, writing, and pronunciation, along with Eritrean history and customs. Dedicated volunteers develop curricula that encourage community engagement and help students embrace their heritage. Administrators collaborate across generations to provide meaningful instruction, building a sense of belonging and laying foundations for future success.
The Women’s Group
The Eritrean Women’s Group is a dedicated community within our association that empowers and supports Eritrean women of all ages. The group provides a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and work together to address issues affecting them both locally and globally. Through cultural events, and initiatives, the group fosters leadership, education, and unity while preserving Eritrean heritage. It also serves as a vital resource for women seeking to strengthen their roles within their families, the community, and society at large.
Our Programs
Connecting Communities, Celebrating Heritage, Supporting Transitions, and Fostering Growth Through Education, Empowerment, and Cultural Engagement.
Refugee Transition Program
The Refugee Transition Program in the Eritrean community provides essential support to newly arrived refugees as they adjust to life in the U.S. This program offers resources such as language assistance, job placement, and housing support, while also helping individuals navigate cultural differences and build a sense of belonging. By connecting newcomers with mentors and community services, the program aims to empower refugees to achieve independence and thrive in their new environment, all while staying connected to their Eritrean roots.
Youth Program: Children & Youth Ages 5 to 17
The ECAO’s youth program fosters pride in Eritrean identity by passing on language and traditions, bridging generational gaps, and strengthening community bonds. Established in 1988, the Tigrinya School offers weekly classes where students of all levels learn reading, writing, and pronunciation, along with Eritrean history and customs. Dedicated volunteers develop curricula that encourage community engagement and help students embrace their heritage. Administrators collaborate across generations to provide meaningful instruction, building a sense of belonging and laying foundations for future success.
The Women’s Group
The Eritrean Women’s Group is a dedicated community within our association that empowers and supports Eritrean women of all ages. The group provides a platform for women to connect, share experiences, and work together to address issues affecting them both locally and globally. Through cultural events, and initiatives, the group fosters leadership, education, and unity while preserving Eritrean heritage. It also serves as a vital resource for women seeking to strengthen their roles within their families, the community, and society at large.
Our Programs
Our Programs
Connecting Communities, Celebrating Heritage, Supporting Transitions, and Fostering Growth Through Education, Empowerment, and Cultural Engagement.
Updates
Explore our events
Building a foundation for the future by creating sustainable systems that empower our community for generations to come. We are shaping a future where every member thrives.
Zara Tigrinya School Graduation
Celebration honoring the achievements of all students and expresses gratitude to the teachers and supporters who helped make it possible.
Multi-Generational Day Event
An annual event showcasing and celebrating diverse cultures and heritage, featuring a variety of cultural performances and activities.
Martyr’s Day
The annual Martyr’s Day event is held to commemorates the courageous Eritrean war heroes who have passed away.
Eritrean Independence Day
An annual celebration held on May 24, this event marks the liberation of our nation in 1991.
Women’s International Day
This day, honors the women who fought and continue to shape nation future celebrating their courage, leadership and ongoing empowerment.
Our Goals and Objectives
Our Goals and Objectives
Our Goals and Objectives
Through educational programs, sports, arts, and community activities, we enrich lives, educate our youth, and provide essential support for families and new arrivals.
Through educational programs, sports, arts, and community activities, we enrich lives, educate our youth, and provide essential support for families and new arrivals.