The Asella Youth and Community Center (AYCC) is a grassroots initiative to uplift vulnerable youth, reduce academic disparities, and invest in the future of our community.
Rooted in local needs and led by community members
Keeping youth at the heart of our mission by supporting their learning, growth, and sense of belonging
Bridging academic gaps through targeted support
A journey of returning home to make a difference
My name is Marin Tinkham, also known by my Ethiopian name, Meron Assefa. I was born in Asella, Oromia, and adopted by an American family during childhood. In 2025, I returned to Asella to found the Asella Youth and Community Center (AYCC) while completing my Master of Social Work internship at one of Compassion International’s Asella chapters. Through this work, I am gaining a deeper understanding of the community’s social needs.The vision for AYCC was inspired by my own childhood experiences attending after-school programs in the United States, including summer recreation programs and the Boys and Girls Club. These programs provided me with support, a strong sense of belonging, and opportunities to grow. My goal is to create that same sense of community and opportunity for children in Asella. AYCC is also fortunate to receive mentorship from the World Youth Club Network, whose guidance helps us align with best practices as we continue to grow.
AYCC is a safe and welcoming space in Asella where children receive homework help, caring adult support, and a nutritious snack after school. Together with families and the community, we nurture children’s growth today while building pathways to stronger families and brighter futures.
We put children first, focusing on their learning, growth, and sense of belonging
We provide consistent homework help and learning activities that build confidence and improve school performance
We offer a welcoming space after school where children feel safe, supported, and encouraged
We work hand in hand with families, schools, and local leaders to create a strong network of care for children
We grow thoughtfully and responsibly, always guided by the real needs of the children and community we serve
Addressing critical educational gaps in our community
Many students in Asella fall behind academically not because they lack ability, but because they lack support. In many homes, parents are unable to read or write and work long hours, leaving children unsupervised after school without help to complete their homework. This often results in stress, academic decline, and increased dropout risk.
Many students fall behind not because they lack ability, but because they lack support
Parents unable to read or write and work long hours, leaving children unsupervised
Children left without help to complete homework during critical hours
AYCC addresses these challenges by:
In September 2025, AYCC began its pilot phase by serving 10 children referred by the Women and Children’s Affairs Office. While small in scale, this initial group represents children with significant academic needs and marks the foundation of our work in the community