one by one®: Eyes That See
Eyes That See is a volunteer-run nonprofit based in Louisville, Kentucky, but with an impact a world away. Its work is in Addis Ababa, the capital of Ethiopia. This is where Eyes That See runs an annual nine-month program that helps turn around the lives of young women.
The organization was co-founded by Nikki Ness, who formed a connection with Ethiopia after adopting a child from the country. She learned about the orphanage industry and how young women often move through that system and into poverty, neglect and sex trafficking. It was a serious problem she was moved to do something about, and that led to the creation of Eyes That See.
Providing the tools for a turnaround
Eyes That See may be a small organization, but its impact is life-changing. In 2010, the nonprofit established its core endeavor—the nine-month program. To help women heal, it takes a holistic approach that includes counseling services, life skills education and job training. Eyes That See also helps with job placement and the transition to independent professional life.
“I love being able to do something to empower these women, to give them the tools to build a better future for themselves,” said Katy Strong, director of outreach and development. “These are some of the strongest, most resilient women I have ever met. It’s so powerful and encouraging to be a part of their story and help them get to a place where they’re not just surviving but have hope for the future.”
Each class includes about 15 women, usually between the ages of 17 and 24. Many of them are still in contact with the team at Eyes That See, even several years after completing the program. “We continue to be a support system,” Strong said. “We become like family.”
Donor appreciation gifts remind supporters what matters
A one by one grant provided the organization with magnets and pens given as donor appreciation gifts and at outreach events. The magnets were imprinted with the organization’s logo and a photo of a woman who graduated from the program. It’s a way to keep the cause front of mind for supporters.
“It’s hard sometimes for people to feel connected when the women are so far away,” Strong said. “So having a magnet on the refrigerator is a little reminder that they’re over there working hard, and we really are connected.”
A note from Cheryl
It was eye-opening to learn about the work Eyes That See is doing to help change the lives of women in Ethiopia for the better. We were proud to show support and help keep the organization top of mind by providing donor appreciation gifts. If you’re interested in a one by one grant, visit onebyone.4imprint.com.