About AYCC
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.
Community-Centered
Rooted in local needs and led by community members
Youth-Focused
Supporting vulnerable children through comprehensive care
Education-Driven
Bridging academic gaps through targeted support
Our Story
A journey of returning home to make a difference
Born in Asella
My name is Marin Tinkham, also known by my Ethiopian name, Meron Asefa. I was born in Asella, Oromia, and adopted by an American family during childhood.
Education in America
I hold a Bachelor’s degree in Social Work from the University of Southern Maine, which I earned in 2024. I am now pursuing my Master of Social Work at the University of Denver, with plans to graduate in 2027. As part of my graduate studies, I am completing a field internship in Asella at the Women and Children’s Affairs Office. This hands-on experience is deepening my understanding of Ethiopia’s social service landscape and strengthening my ability to lead and grow AYCC effectively.
Returning Home
Now residing in Kebele 6, Asella, I have returned to reconnect with my roots, regain fluency in Amharic, and give back to my community in a meaningful way.
The Vision Behind AYCC
We envision a community where every young person in Asella feels safe, supported, and encouraged to reach their full potential. With academic support, mentorship, and a caring environment, youth build confidence and thrive in all areas of life.
Our Mission & Core Values
Mission Statement
Asella Youth and Community Center (AYCC) is a youth-centered community space in Asella that supports children through academic assistance, mentorship, and a safe place to belong. We work in partnership with families and community members to nurture children's learning, well-being, and long-term success.
Our 5 Core Pillars
We center our work around the needs, strengths, and potential of the children we serve.
We provide consistent learning support to help students grow in confidence and school performance.
We create a welcoming space where children feel protected, respected, and encouraged.
We collaborate with families, schools, and local leaders to build a shared foundation of care and opportunity.
We expand thoughtfully and responsibly, guided by the real needs of children and the community.
Our Unique Model
Built on proven international frameworks, adapted for local needs
International Foundation
AYCC is based on the model of the World Youth Club, an international nonprofit inspired by the U.S. Boys & Girls Club.
Independent Operations
While each chapter operates independently, the model promotes safe, structured environments that support academic growth, social development, and positive mentorship.
Local Adaptation
AYCC will adapt this model to meet local needs, with a strong focus on homework support and mentorship for students from low-literacy households.
Community-Centered Approach
While we receive ongoing guidance from the International World Youth Club, this initiative is locally managed and community-centered.
Key Model Features
- Safe, structured environments for children
- Academic growth and social development focus
- Positive mentorship relationships
- Homework support for low-literacy households
Why Asella? Why Now?
Addressing critical educational gaps in our community
The Challenge
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.
Academic Struggles
Many students fall behind not because they lack ability, but because they lack support
Limited Family Support
Parents unable to read or write and work long hours, leaving children unsupervised
After-School Gap
Children left without help to complete homework during critical hours
Our Solution
AYCC addresses these challenges by:
- Helping students master school material through tutoring and homework support
- Relieving pressure on families who cannot assist with schoolwork
- Offering consistent mentorship and encouragement
- Keeping youth engaged and safe during critical afterschool hours
Students will be referred by the Women and Children's Affairs Office, which will help identify public school students in grades 1 through 8 who are struggling the most academically.
Programs & Activities
Comprehensive support that grows with our community's needs
Initial Program Activities (First Phase)
Tutoring and homework help
Structured academic support in small groups and one-on-one settings
Nutritious snack at each session
Ensuring children have proper nutrition to support their learning
Student progress tracking and parent updates
Regular communication with families about their child's development
Expansion Activities (Next Phase)
Games and table tennis for recreation and focus
Physical activities to promote health and concentration
Storytelling and creative writing workshops
Developing literacy and creative expression skills
Guest speakers (e.g., professionals, elders, artists)
Exposure to diverse role models and career paths
Youth dialogue circles for leadership and emotional well-being
Building communication skills and emotional intelligence
Phased Growth Approach
Our programs are designed to start with essential academic support and gradually expand to include recreational, creative, and leadership development activities as the center establishes itself and grows within the community.
Leadership, Oversight & Partnerships
Building strong foundations through dedicated leadership and community partnerships
Staffing Plan (Pilot Phase)
AYCC will begin with a small, focused team:
To provide structured academic support in small group and one-on-one settings
I, Marin Tinkham (Meron Asefa), will serve as Program Coordinator in the first phase, overseeing daily operations, supervising staff, and maintaining communication with families, partners, and authorities
A local co-leader fluent in Amharic will assist in daily operations and receive mentorship to take over full coordination in the future
Mentorship & Oversight
As the founder and Program Coordinator of AYCC, I am receiving direct mentorship from the International World Youth Club to guide the launch and development of this local chapter. This mentorship includes support with program design, tools for implementation, and strategic guidance.
Additionally, my father, Leo Tinkham, serves as co-founder. He holds a business degree, has participated in meetings with the International World Youth Club, and has traveled to Ethiopia seven times. His involvement reflects our shared commitment to supporting the children of Asella and ensuring this program is rooted in community.
Key Partnership
Mehale Mesret Kristos Church
Thank you, Pastor Shanbel and Mehale Mesret Kristos Church, for generously agreeing to provide a room for AYCC free of charge. Your kindness and support are a powerful act of community leadership, and they will directly impact the lives of children and families in Asella.
Child Safety & Our Future
Ensuring safety, accessibility, and sustainable growth for lasting impact
Child Safety
AYCC will implement clear policies to ensure student safety:
Cost to Families
Completely Free
Participation in AYCC will be completely free to ensure access for all children, regardless of financial status.
Leadership Transition
I am committed to remaining in Ethiopia for as long as necessary to oversee and stabilize the program. A gradual transition plan will be in place to train and support a local Program Coordinator, ensuring sustainable leadership rooted in the Asella community.
Registration Status
As AYCC is currently being introduced as a pilot program, we are taking a step-by-step approach. While we are preparing for eventual NGO registration, formal registration will follow after demonstrating early success, securing local support, and confirming that the program meets a vital community need. This phased approach allows us to focus first on program quality and impact. It ensures that official recognition is built on a strong foundation of community trust and proven outcomes.
Sustainability & Funding
Supported through private donations
Seek local and international grants, partnerships with schools and NGOs, and ongoing community support