We knew in 2012 when we established an orphanage for abandoned children in Shashemene that getting the right person to run it was critical.  Our ministry accountant had worked in a previous job with a young man she thought would be perfect.

Ephrem is a wonderful blend of solid spirituality, education and expertise coupled with longstanding community relationships that have set the tenor of Mana Gammachuu (Joyful Place) orphanage from the very beginning.

This past July an adoption summit was hosted in Shashemene by our organization.  It would not have been the success it was without Ephrem’s hard work.  Churches were contacted, couples pre-screened,  the venue selected and reserved with myriad details taken care of.  Ephrem was a presenter at the summit and has followed up with the 60 families who indicated their desire to adopt.

Besides overseeing the twenty orphanage staff, Ephrem’s main job is interfacing with government agencies and the court system.  It is his job to ensure every child has all the necessary documents to be adopted and every family who takes a child from our orphanage has met the stringent standards which he has set.

Ephrem is a man with huge capacity.  He has been with the orphanage since its inception, ensuring high marks for Joyful Place orphanage as a nurturing oasis for children with no one on earth to care for them.  Through his capable leadership, 38 children now have families who cherish them – no longer abandoned.

Ephrem lives near the orphanage in Shashemene with his lovely wife, two daughters and infant son.  We are grateful to have him as a vital part of what God is doing in Ethiopia!