Rapid Development Projects in Mayan Villages
For Rotarians working internationally, the needs of those living in extreme poverty can be overwhelming. How much can Rotarians really do?
One Rotary program addresses multiple aspects of poverty in Mayan villages in the Copán Ruinas region in Honduras. The program was initiated by the International Project Alliance (IPA), a coalition of eleven Rotary Clubs in Western Washington, and the Rotary Club of Copán Ruinas, Honduras. A recent Global Grant from Rotary International to the Fidalgo Island club will support the IPA’s Rapid Development (RD) program in six villages (520 people) from 2021 to 2023.
At the start of the RD program, villagers describe possible projects that would improve the economic situation in their villages and that interest them. They describe the need, the project, and the village’s commitment to it, including potential financial contributions. A village savings and loan association is started, which loans money for small businesses. IPA’s contractors help villagers to execute projects and start small businesses. IPA identifies financial resources in Honduras, the U.S., and internationally.
Villagers identified agricultural projects and small businesses as keys to their villages’ economic futures. They felt success in these areas would increase health and quality of life and allow residents to stay in the region rather than seek opportunities elsewhere. For each village, in addition to the project specific resources, RD provides training and medical kits to community health volunteers to improve health services and support the village schools.
IPA contractors work with villagers to refine and finalize project plans, provide training in financial management, goal setting, and interpersonal skills, and help in carrying out the projects. An agronomist trains farmers on improved methods and villagers on home gardening.
Small businesses started in RD villages include dairy processing, pig and chicken farming, variety stores, motorcycle repair and parts, market gardens, and used clothing sales. IPA has contracted with a local organization to transport and market agricultural products in nearby towns.
IPA agronomist introduces a new type of tree that is robust under local conditions and explains how it should be planted and maintained.
Trainer shows how to vaccinate pigs to a community member raising pigs for the first time.
Families receive training and seeds to start their own gardens. Some families start large gardens to produce vegetables for sale.
One entrepreneur is producing cheese from local milk, which is sold in the village and in nearby towns. A cooperating organization helps with marketing.
FXB Model
In its design, the Rapid Development Program relied heavily on the model of the FXB organization in Switzerland, which has been recognized by both UNAIDs and UNICEF as using best practice approaches for addressing poverty in developing countries.
IPA-Copan
IPA-Copan is a partnership of the Rotary Club of Copán Ruinas, Honduras, and eleven District 5050 Rotary Clubs that work as the International Project Alliance (IPA). Rotarians interested in joining the IPA should contact info@ipafoundation.org or Marty Pease, (mcconlogue@msn.com) IPA’s Marketing Director.