Common River

View of hills around Aleta Wondo, Sidama, Ethiopia.

Ethiopia is the birthplace of coffee.

"Wondo" seeks those willing to invest and work together towards a sustainable future with a true sense of partnership. This village has distinguished coffee production and untapped human resources making it the ideal model for COMMON RIVER's community development, creating community socio-economic wellness.

View Marin IJ Article.

Positive Deviance Approach:

In every community, there are individuals whose unique (“deviant”) behaviors create better (“positive”) results than their neighbor with the exact same resources. Common River’s Mission is to amplify these methods for full community success.

Through the positive deviance approach we assist the community to discover those behaviors that are working effectively today among some and share them with the others. It is naturally sustainable and culturally appropriate since the solution lies within the community.

Common River provides a direct and personal link to a rural Ethiopian community. We facilitate dialogue between children of Aleta Wondo and their peers in other places. We believe each can learn from the other. We encourage a long-term relationship, so that we not only grow up together, but grow closer together. Eco-lodges (traditional Sidama huts) will be available on the property for visitors and volunteers.

Common River

Welcome to Aleta Wondo in the beautiful coffee-rich region of Sidama (in Ethiopia - the birthplace of coffee)! We are a 501(c)(3) non-governmental organization based in Mill Valley, California, USA. COMMON RIVER's goal is to create balanced, productive and self-sustaining communities for others to witness and replicate.

Uniforms donated by Common River
to students of Aleta Wondo Elementary School

Mission

To invest in the socio-economic potential and well-being
of a community through integrated development using the 'Positive Deviance' approach in education, health and livelihoods.

Common River Believes. . .

It takes indigenous INDUSTRY to build economic security. It takes EDUCATION to empower generations to be innovative. It takes ENTREPRENEURS, women in particular, to fund worthy ideas. It takes ESSENTIAL HEALTH CARE to diligently work, study and thrive. It takes ENVIRONMENTAL infrastructures to create sustainability. It takes INVESTORS to create motivation, accountability & success!