- Set a fundraising target that would enable us to achieve our work and goals. H.E.R.D.S. aims to raise, at least, $700,000 in 2025. We realize that this an ambitious target. But this is the revenue that would enable us to do the work. We would reach out to donors (government as well as private) who we believe are able and willing to help and partner with us to reach our goals. The aim is to spend most of our income (85-90%) on our projects and objectives.
- Get in touch with the Ethiopian authorities, explain our objectives, and request permission to operate in the country. We understand the problems of bureaucracy and sometimes the lack of efficiency and integrity. But, we believe, due to our familiarity with the land, the people, and our connections, we would prevail. We will get permission from the appropriate ministry/agency in Addis Ababa; and this should not take us more than a week. In the regional capital, Jigjiga, one other week should also be enough to get the green light.
- Identify reputable, experienced, and a devoted local construction company to build the facilities (health center and afterschool building). There are companies with the skills and capacities that we are already in touch with, and they have given us their estimates. The construction work of the building and their completion should not take more than 3 months.
- Establish a base for H.E.R.D.S. in the country, especially in the area we will be working, that would represent the organization and monitor its activities.
- Open an account with the Commercial Bank of Ethiopia (the national bank of the land).
- Recruit volunteers in the areas and communities we work (including here in the U.S.) that would contribute to the work and objectives of H.E.R.D.S.
- The work, initiatives, and progress of the projects will be continuously monitored and evaluated by internal reports, meetings, and different methods of information dissemination.