History

Marla Hodes and Melanie Robbins established the Ethiopian Family Fund (EFF) after traveling to Addis Ababa, Ethiopia to visit Dr. Rick Hodes, Marla’s brother in-law, who has dedicated his life to saving lives in Ethiopia for the past two decades. Prior to their visit, Ethiopia was, for Marla and Melanie, simply a spot on the map, not a destination; an unknown culture and not a place for friendship and commitment. The trip altered their lives profoundly.

Through their two month journey of discovery, they learned of the heart-wrenching statistics affecting the Ethiopian people. They witnessed up-close the realities of poverty, HIV/AIDS, lack of education and homelessness. In stark contrast, however, they were touched deeply by the beauty of Ethiopia, its vibrant people and rich culture.

“For us it was always about the children; what could we do to make a lasting change?” The trip provided some answers. Before returning home, Marla and Melanie met some incredibly dedicated people who would become their partners in Africa. From this connection, came the birth of the ‘Ethiopian Family Fund.’ These amazing partners would soon oversee EFF’s projects in Ethiopia, as well as serve on the Advisory Board.

Marla Hodes and Melanie Robbins

Founders and Directors
Ethiopian Family Fund