TDVA Fund Rising Event in Toronto and Surrounding

The Tigrian community and peace loving Ethiopians held a successful fund raising event in Toronto, Canada on January 5^th, 2008. The organizing committee is very pleased to report that this special event raised $27, 000 CDN. For this, TDVA and the organizing committee would like to extend our sincere gratitude to the generous participants who lent their hands to support the disabled heroes and heroines of Tigray. It is also worthwhile to mention that this successful event was made possible by UTNA who undertook the initiative in order to alleviate the needs of the veterans; Tigrian Youth Association of Toronto who raised money ($460 CDN.) through the sale of t-shirts; and the talented musicians (Aziz, Berhan and Alazar) who entertained us throughout the evening.

In his speech, the Hon. Asmelash Woldeselsassie (aka Aba Nebso), mentioned that the tour's main objectives was to raise an awareness among the Tigrian community abroad regarding the needs of the disabled veterans and demonstrate to them how they too could get involved in helping thereby fulfill their community duties. Although tremendous achievements have been registered by the organization, the veterans are still facing all kinds of barriers in their daily lives. However, in pursuit of being self reliant, they confront their difficulties, both physical and economic, with strong resolve. Once again, they assure us that they will never be “TETEWERTI” but only be “MEFREYTI.” To that end, our part is to say ALENALKUM!!

In summary, the delegates kindly requested the participants:

a) To make this tour successful by responding generously in financial contributions.

b) To make TDVA objectives visible to governmental and non-profit organization in our respective areas so that continued support is received and in return can aid in materializing TDVA’s ongoing projects.

c) To commit as registered member of the organization.

Unfortunately, due to time constraint, the question and answer period was postponed for the next day. Essential and timely issues were entertained. As a closing remark, the audience thanked the veterans as a whole for the sacrifice and selfless deeds they have done for our people. Furthermore, they emphasized that it is the responsibility of all Tigrians and peace loving Ethiopians to support this noble cause. The guests also expressed their gratitude to the community for both financial contribution and the warm welcome they received. Their concluding remarks pointed to an important current issue in which our unity is core to our existence, and it shouldn’t be tampered with regardless of our political differences.

Finally, remember that this is not one time event. For those of you who haven’t donated yet please consider this opportunity to make a contribution. We can make an even bigger collective impact by donating funds directly to TDVA and positively responding to the tour’s mission as mentioned above on a continuous basis.

Thank you again for your kindness

Organizing Committee of Toronto