Get Involved

February 2009: Peace Corps Volunteer Kyle Bajtelsmit arrives in
Aleta Wondo!

View web album: Peace Corps Volunteers

Common River wishes to tap the pure philanthropic spirit of children and encourage children to help their peers in a much less advantaged community. Rather than have a parent write a check, we encourage action by children to help other children.


We have approached school's student councils, kid rock bands, and youth groups to discuss community service opportunities.

Donna and Tsegaye are willing to come to schools, churches and youth groups to speak about Common River and brainstorm together about various service opportunities. A local Mill Valley school has conducted a book drive and had a bake sale to pay to ship the books. Another school provided a percentage of their annual auction raffle for the school building.
A phenomenal kid rock band conducted a benefit concert for Common River at a local community center, which was a sold-out performance and a big success. Due to their substantial contribution, the first schoolhouse has been named after the band (Chasing Maya). The efforts of youth benefits not only the children of Aleta Wondo, but also the children in the developed world through this enriching exchange of compassion and giving of oneself.

Common River provides a personal, direct link to children and will facilitate a dialogue between the givers and the receivers. Children will be able to communicate through e-mail, letters, and photos. Everyone is also given an open invitation to visit Aleta Wondo, experience the community first hand, stay in a traditional mud hut, and work and play as much as they wish! Of course, Common River invites adults, as well, to visit Aleta Wondo.


Come simply for the rich cultural experience.
Come to offer your professional assistance as a volunteer.
Come to witness first hand a grassroots community development program.
Come pick fresh coffee cherries off the trees on a coffee plantation.

Common River guarantees that you will partake in many beautiful coffee ceremonies and imbibe in the best coffee in the world during your stay.
It will be an adventure of a lifetime no matter how you choose to arrive.
The community of Aleta Wondo welcomes you with open arms and you will find the Sidama tribe to be one of the most hospitable in all of Ethiopia.