As the mid-June chill and drizzle began in Addis Ababa, the anxiety weighing on Emahoy, who lived in a small house in the Aware area, was far heavier than her old age.

However, one blessed day arrived to make her forget that life of distress forever. Unexpected, noble guests visited and announced their decision to relieve her from the worries of the cold and the threat of flooding. Emahoy blessed her guests, saying, "May evil not touch you, my child," and accepted their support; from then on, she was freed from the anxieties of the rainy season.

That voice of hope, heard in 2011 E.C. from Emahoy’s humble hut in Aware, did more than just beautify Aware. That proclamation of hope became the foundation for a great national movement officially launched across all of Ethiopia, changing the lives of many vulnerable citizens.

In this same spirit, Prime Minister Abiy Ahmed (PhD) has officially launched the 2018 E.C. Summer Volunteer Service. This national movement, much like it did for Emahoy in Aware, aims to bridge the gaps in the lives of many vulnerable people throughout Ethiopia and shine a light of hope.

Building on the successes recorded over the past few years, this summer charitable movement, which has begun its work with great preparation, is currently underway on a large scale through Green Legacy initiatives, home renovations, and food-sharing programs.

Because the summer rain is a symbol of kindness and blessing for Ethiopians, it has opened a wide door for millions of young people to fulfill their social responsibilities.

The joyful smile that originated in Emahoy’s home in Aware continues today with determination to change the lives of millions of citizens—a living testament to this national movement.