Who We Are

Our Story
Empowering Echoes (EMECHS) is the next chapter of a journey that began with the Organization for Progress and Sustainability. Founded in 2007 in Afghanistan, OHW emerged in response to the profound needs of communities torn apart by conflict and poverty. From the beginning, our mission was clear: to bring hope where it had been lost, rebuild lives, and empower those left behind.
Over the years, OPS’ impact reached 19 provinces in Afghanistan and beyond,
touching the lives of nearly 2.5 million people. We focused on critical areas such as food security, livelihoods, education, and health, ensuring that those most in need were given the tools to rebuild their futures. Our work was strengthened by partnerships with esteemed global donors and organizations, including UNICEF, WFP, UNHCR, and OCHA. Together, we worked tirelessly to create lasting change
But as the world changed, so did we. Recognizing that the challenges of economic
empowerment and sustainable development are universal, we expanded our mission to
the United States, forming EMECHS. This wasn’t just a move—it was a bold step forward,
bringing the experience, passion, and commitment that defined OPS to new
communities in Ohio and beyond.
Our journey is rooted in the lessons and values that guided us through our work with
OPS. We’ve seen the power of empowerment in action, and we know that with the right
support, individuals, and communities can overcome even the greatest challenges.
EmEchs is not just a new name; it’s the continuation of a legacy of transformation now
focused on empowering communities in the United States.
Our Vision
Our Mission
Our Team
At Empowering Echoes (EmEchs), our team is a passionate and dedicated group of professionals committed to driving positive change. With expertise spanning economic empowerment, education, research, monitoring and evaluation, and community development, our diverse team brings a wealth of experience from across the nonprofit and international development sectors. Guided by a shared vision of hope, advocacy, and sustainable impact, we work collaboratively to create innovative solutions that uplift marginalized communities. Our leadership, field experts, and dedicated staff are united by a deep commitment to fostering resilience, equity, and lasting transformation in the lives of those we serve.
Partners
At EmEchs, our impact is made possible through strategic collaborations with diverse local, national, and international partners. These partnerships help us deliver on our mission of empowering individuals and transforming communities. We continue to build on the legacy of the Organization for Progress and Sustainability (OPS) by working alongside organizations that share our vision for economic empowerment and sustainable development.
- United Nations High Commission for Refugees (UNHCR)
- United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO)
- United Nations World Food Programme (WFP)
- Save the Children International
- War Child Canada
- Johanniter International Assistance (JIA)
- ActionAid International
- IOM
- Cordaid
- Tawanmandi Program/DFID
- Oxfam GB.
- BRAC
- DAI Global
- Chemonics International
- Aga Khan Foundation
- United Nations Children’s Fund (UNICEF)
- United States Institute of Peace (USIP)
- Deutsche Welthungerhilfe (WHH)
- Caritas Germany