Our Background

Although Ertoba NGO was officially incorporated in 2025, its roots go much deeper. Our founders have been serving the Georgian community in New York for years through cultural, educational, and advocacy initiatives. These efforts now form the foundation of Ertoba.

Timeline of Our Past Work

2018–2019

• Launched the Georgian Herald, a community newspaper and online outlet serving Georgian immigrants in New York

• Published news, cultural articles, and resources for the Georgian diaspora until operations ceased due to pandemic complications and economic difficulties

2020–2021

• Members of our initiative group organized pandemic relief efforts to support Georgians in need

• Gathered donations and distributed food and medical supplies to vulnerable families affected by COVID-19 and economic hardship

2023

• Organized the first large Georgian Independence Day celebration in New York, gathering hundreds of participants

• Began building the Georgian-language community library, which has grown to over 300 books

• Formed a partnership with All Saints’ Episcopal Church in Brooklyn, whose benevolence provided gathering space and support for Georgian cultural and community events

• Began celebrating major community holidays and commemorative days with gatherings, food, and cultural programming

2024

• Expanded the Independence Day celebration, including music, literature, and cultural programming

• Hosted regular monthly Georgian gatherings at All Saints’ Church, offering a welcoming space for dialogue, cultural exchange, and community support

• Organized the first Georgian poetry and literature evening in Brooklyn

• Began movie screenings of Georgian films with community discussion afterward

• Hosted a Thanksgiving community dinner bringing Georgians and friends together for food and fellowship

• Continued to celebrate key national and community days, building tradition and unity

2025

• Coordinated the third annual Independence Day celebration, with record community participation

• Continued to expand the Georgian library and cultural programs

• Launched youth and community discussion groups, including non-sectarian meetings to support dignity, justice, and belonging

• Organized additional cultural events and social meals, strengthening bonds within the community

• Built partnerships with local organizations and cultural institutions to amplify Georgian voices in New York

• Received Certificates of Appreciation from the Mayor’s Office of the City of New York in recognition of our contribution to the community

• Incorporated officially as Ertoba NGO (Georgian International Foundation for Transformation, Inc.) in August 2025