Dr. Rick Hodes is an American physician who has lived and worked in Ethiopia for over 20 years. He is the Medical Director of Ethiopia for United Jewish Federation's international partner agency, the American Jewish Joint Distribution Committee (JDC), a 95-year old NGO. Over the years, he has looked after the health of Ethiopians immigrating to Israel.  He helps sick children and adults with heart disease, spine disease, and cancer. He has also worked with refugees in Rwanda, Zaire, Tanzania, Somalia, and Albania.

A true American hero and inspiration, Dr. Hodes has received many accolades. He has been chosen by  ABC News as their 'Person of the Week' and as a CNN Hero.  Dr. Hodes was profiled in the HBO Documentary 'Making the Crooked Straight'.