About Us
About Colorado Ethiopian Community
A home away from home for Ethiopians across Colorado — preserving heritage, supporting families, and investing in the next generation.
Our story
Rooted in Colorado, Grounded in Heritage
Colorado Ethiopian Community is a nonprofit organization established to preserve, share, and promote 3,000 years of Ethiopian cultural heritage. We work to support the integration of new Ethiopian Americans so they can contribute to and enrich the cultural mosaic of the United States.
CEC also engages in community and youth empowerment programs that foster a strong and vibrant integrated community. Denver is now home to a thriving Ethiopian community of over 50,000 people — and growing.
We believe every Ethiopian is a change maker — capable of shaping their future and changing the world.
Our Mission
- To provide charitable assistance to members of the Ethiopian community.
- To support the establishment of an Ethiopian Community Center where members help the younger generation preserve and celebrate their cultural heritage.
- To unite the community during times of crisis such as death, illness, unemployment, or disability.
- To offer guidance and counseling to newly arriving Ethiopian refugees and immigrants, including assistance with immigration and legal matters.
- To implement structured programs and services that promote successful integration into American society and culture.
- To advocate for and contribute toward the realization of basic human rights for Ethiopians around the world.
- To empower community members — especially youth — to embrace American culture while maintaining a strong Ethiopian identity.
- To create and maintain a Youth Resource Center dedicated to the safety, education, and positive development of Ethiopian youth.
Our Vision
The vision of CEC is to be a law-abiding, contributing, and well-adapted model community — a peaceful, stable, and sustainable community organization that serves current members and future generations.
Goals
- To cherish the rich diversity of our community and unite in the knowledge and understanding of our culture.
- To engage in community and youth empowerment programs that foster a strong and vibrant community.
What we stand for
Our Values
The principles that guide our work and shape our community.
Community First
We put people at the center of everything we do, creating spaces where the diaspora can connect, support, and celebrate together.
Cultural Heritage
We preserve and share Ethiopian culture, language, and traditions with the next generation and the broader Colorado community.
Inclusive Support
From mental health resources to internships, we ensure our programs are accessible and welcoming to all members.
Youth Empowerment
We invest in young Ethiopian-Americans through mentorship, internships, and leadership opportunities that build confidence and skills.
Community life
Moments From Our Community
Celebrations, workshops, and coffee ceremonies that bring us together across Colorado.
Leadership
Board & Staff
Our board of directors, committees, and staff lead CEC's work in Colorado.
Working together
Community Partners
Organizations we work alongside to serve Ethiopian families in Colorado.
- Spring Institute
- Ardent Grove Foundation
- Center for Immigrants and Immigration Services
- Aurora Public Schools
- Lasting Peace Counseling
- Hand to the Future