The Ethiopian Community Development Council, Inc. (ECDC) is a non-profit, tax-exempt 501(c)(3) community-based organization which resettles refugees from a range of countries, such as Afghanistan, Burma, China, The Democratic Republic of Congo, Ecuador, Eritrea, Iran, Iraq, Somalia, Sudan, and Syria. The African Community Center (ACC) DC Metro is the branch office responsible for directly assisting them in the transition to their new home and culture. Examples of client services include help securing housing, finding jobs, learning public transit, and enrolling in school and ESL classes. ECDC/ACC DC Metro regularly holds events to educate the general public on refugee issues and to connect clients with the local community.
Our largest such function is the annual Refugee’s First Thanksgiving Dinner. This event is especially important because it introduces refugees for the first time to the quintessential American holiday and spirit of Thanksgiving. The celebration this year will take place on Sunday, November 18th at 903 S. Highland St. Arlington, VA and include American Thanksgiving feast favorites, traditional dishes and dances from community members’ home countries, and activities for children. This meal gives an opportunity to our newest members to give back to the community by sharing food and music from their own cultures. Last year’s event saw over 200 people, and we look forward to hosting as many guests this year.
We invite you to play a special role in a refugee’s first Thanksgiving experience by volunteering or donating food for the event.
