OUR U.S. TEAM

Rita Khayat
Rita KhayatFounder/President
Rita Khayat is an IT Executive with over 30 years of experience in strategic IT, digital business transformation, enterprise systems implementations, global technology operations and M&A integrations. Originally from Lebanon, Rita had the opportunity to travel to over 35 countries, and was privileged to live in 6 countries across 3 continents which led her to absorb and respect the cultural differences of the world. She has a passion to develop people who are underprivileged and underserved, in particular, the single moms in developing countries, which is the mission of Tabitha Reach. Rita holds a Masters in Business Administration and Computer Science from Polytech Montpellier, France and a B.S. degree in Economic Sciences from the University of Bordeaux, France.
Lily Olgiati
Lily OlgiatiVice President
Lily Olgiati is a Psychotherapist and International Public Speaker who uses creative elements to bring her messages of hope and transformation to life. Originally from South Wales, United Kingdom, she relocated to the United States with her family in 2011 – where she currently serves as the Women’s Ministries Pastor at Family Community Church in San Jose, CA. Lily has a passion to empower, inspire and encourage women of all ages, backgrounds and ethnicities to come together and be all that they were created to be. Lily is convinced that every woman has a purpose, and loves nothing more than to stand in agreement with them as they walk out the journey that will allow them to fulfill their purpose. Lily holds an M.A. in Integrative Counselling and Psychology from the University of South Wales, Newport.
Kim McGettigan
Kim McGettiganTreasurer & Events
Kim McGettigan has a rich background in Early Childhood Development, dedicating her time to nurturing young minds and contributing to the educational community. Kim served on the parent’s association boards of her children’s school, holding roles as Financial Secretary and Auditor, ensuring smooth financial operations of the group. Kim embraced leadership with roles in a local Girl Scouts troop and the San Jose Jr. Sharks Hockey club, helping to foster camaraderie and teamwork. Looking back on 30 years of marriage, she sees that her family has always been rooted in the spirit of volunteerism and giving back to the community. Kim finds fulfillment in the diverse tapestry of life, weaving together education, family, and service.
Dawn Ellgen
Dawn EllgenSecretary
Dawn Ellgen is a Radiology Technologist with over 30 years of experience, she is committed to the well-being of others. Dawn resides in San Jose, California since relocating from Indiana 25 years ago. As a wife for two decades and a mother to a 19-year-old son, she understands the importance of family and nurturing relationships. Beyond her professional career in healthcare, and coaching women, she serves on the women’s leadership and prayer team, as well as contributing years of service in children’s ministry. Dawn’s passion for overall health extends beyond the workplace, driving her to make a positive impact in both personal and professional spheres.

OUR ETHIOPIA TEAM

Semeret “Semri” Demeke
Semeret “Semri” DemekeCountry Director
Semeret “Semri” Demeke has a passion for her country’s development and believes education and family is the base of a society especially investing in women. She has more than 10+ years of experience in coordinating different projects through international NGOs in Ethiopia. Prior to joining Tabitha Reach in 2019, she worked as a Communications Officer at Children’s HopeChest and before that, Sponsor and Donor Associate at Compassion International Ethiopia. She holds a master’s degree in Holistic Child Development, a BA degree in Economics and an international certification in Project Management. In addition, she is currently attending a career-integrated MA, studying Public Management in International Cooperation, from Kehl University in Germany.
Eden Birhanu
Eden BirhanuAccountant
Miss Eden Birhanu was born in Maychew Tigray. Currently, she lives in Addis Ababa. She has diploma in Surveying from Dalol college. She has a BA degree in Accounting from Admas University. Besides this, she has MA degree in Leadership and Management from Jephthah International Theological College. She joined Hope for Youth Ethiopia Development Organization in September 2016 whose main work is supporting orphans and vulnerable children and destitute families in Addis Ababa. She is very compassionate and considerate to these children and youth who are at-risk and have no opportunity to go to school. She is also a part-time accountant for Tabitha Reach Ethiopia. She does her work diligently, passionately and efficiently to satisfy the beneficiaries in these organizations.

MAKE A DIFFERENCE IN THE LIVES OF A MOTHER AND HER CHILDREN

Get Involved in the fight against poverty, injustice and inequality.

VOLUNTEER
DONATE NOW

JOIN TABITHA REACH E-NEWS

Get the latest news, announcements and activities sent to your email.