helping each other in time of need
Welcome to the Ethiopian Canadian Solace Society (Idir) in Edmonton (ECSSE). ECSSE was founded late 2016 and incorporated under the Societies Act of Alberta in 2017.
Idir has a long and rich history back in Ethiopia. While the circumstances of life are much different in Canada, the human needs in times of hardships such as losing a loved one are similar everywhere. First, most people seek and benefit greatly from moral support and consolation from members of their community. Second, death often comes unexpectedly when families are unprepared mentally, which makes making memorial and burial arrangements with funeral homes a daunting task for a grief-stricken family. Finally, financial expenses to cover funeral and burial expenses could be challenging especially for those who are relatively new comers.
The ECSSE was established to fill these gaps in an organized, proactive and sustainable way. That is exactly what it has done in the past six years and will continue to do in the years and decades to come.
ECSSE is not, however, only about financial, logistics and moral support in times of death. The Idir organizes a get-together (picnic) event for members and their children at least once a year to reconnect and enjoy each other’s company with great food and fun activities.
Other than registration and small monthly fees, members’ obligation is minimal and most of the operational tasks are undertaken by a board and support committee members who offer their time and energy voluntarily for the benefit of the Idir members.
As the famous Ethiopian saying goes, “one can’t clap with one hand” or “one can’t make fire with one log”. So, come one, come all. Join us, let’s make the ECSSE a major, enduring institution in Edmonton to provide all-rounded support to each other in times of sorrow and need.
Please read our bylaw for detailed information, members’ benefits and obligations.
If you have any question, would like to make a comment, inquire about the services our Idir offers or simply need more information, please contact us by email at info@ecssidir.org or visit the Join Us page to apply for new membership.