Transforming Tragedy into a Lifeline for Children in Need
The RBY Foundation was born out of both tragedy and resilience. Rediet and Bereket, two bright and highly educated young people, lost their lives in a devastating car accident. Bereket had already begun building his future, co-founding a software company with his friend, while Rediet had just completed college with honors. Their promising journeys were cut short far too soon.
In the aftermath of this loss, their grieving parents sought a way to honor their children’s memory. They established the RBY Charity Center, naming it after Rediet, Bereket, and their friend Yosef. But the path forward was not easy. Both families faced deep depression as they tried to navigate their grief. In their healing process, they considered adopting orphans, starting with four children. However, the adoption process proved long and complicated, preventing them from following that route.
Instead, they received advice that reshaped their mission: rather than adopt, they could support children in need those with poor parents struggling to provide, or children without parents who were living with relatives. This guidance gave them a new vision: to create a foundation that would directly uplift disadvantaged children and families.
In 2012 (Ethiopian calendar), the RBY Foundation officially began its journey. What started with support for just 20 children has now grown to reach more than 85. Through monthly programs, the foundation provides food, shelter, and other basic necessities, ensuring that each family under its care has the support needed to survive and grow.
Today, the RBY Foundation stands not only as a tribute to Rediet and Bereket but also as a symbol of love transformed into action. From the depths of grief, their parents built a legacy of hope that continues to change lives.