East African Village Outreach began as a result of a visit to the birth village of Seifu Ibssa, an Ethiopian American, his wife Mulu and two friends, Jim and Lana Reese, in February  2005.

It was a profound and disturbing experience that changed the course of life direction for each one.  They were joined by Mary Staples, a long time supporter of African causes through World Vision, and Dr. Olana Aberra, a young Ethiopian American Physician committed to serve the needs of his birth country.  A prayer support base was established by enthusiastic and interested Christians in the U.S.

EAVO began as Ethiopian Village Outreach (EVO) in August 2005 to  address the immediate needs of  the village of Kerebinge.  This grew into a “vision” of a holistic  approach to bring the Gospel to the surrounding area of Acheber in the Gurage  Highlands.  After establishing indigenous  partnerships in Ethiopia and Kenya, it was decided  to change our name to “East African Village Outreach” and become a recognized  organization.  We received NGO tax-exempt  status in 2007.

Encouraged by what we have learned and established, we hope to  continue the vision as a true “village outreach” with an “eye to the next  generation”.