Resources for the Enrichment of African Lives

We are dedicated to the education and empowerment of girls and young women in Ethiopia.

Who We Are

Resources for the Enrichment of African Lives (REAL) is a 501(c)(3) non-profit corporation dedicated to the education of girls and young women in Ethiopia. Through education, girls have the chance to break the cycle of poverty, for themselves, as well as for their families and communities.   

What We Do

Our primary program, sponsorship of girls' education and leadership development, began in 2004 in Ethiopia and supported over 420 girls. 85% of them completed higher education and were employed as medical doctors,  nurses, teachers,  and engineers in different fields to name a few.

Through individual and group sponsorships, REAL is now supporting 175 girls in Ethiopia, partnering with the local communities.  The girls attend more than 30 schools at 9 different sites, with a mentor at each site.

Our unique model of support is based on one of growth and development, not only for girls' education and leadership skills but also for their families and for the communities where they live.  All sponsorship dollars support the girls, their families, and mentors in the program.  We continue to witness families making progress in breaking the cycle of poverty.  Girls are completing their basic education and are continuing with advanced college and vocational program opportunities.

How We Do It

We team up with amazing sponsors, partners, and friends of REAL! , and people who see and know the incredible value of education and the difference it makes.  In our program in Ethiopia, the sponsors of girls and young women commit to just $1 a day/ $30 a month / $360 a year... the sponsors of our mentors commit to $120 a month/ $1440 a year.  Our goal is to raise $7,000 to support 20 girls for a year!

Please help us to strengthen our current program and expand our reach throughout Ethiopia. You can also join us in traveling to Ethiopia to celebrate our 20th anniversary on February 2, 2025, and witness the transformation.