November 05, 2014 by Alex Counts
I find it useful, from time to time, to put aside short-term, tactical matters and take a big step back to reflect on the work we do, why we do it, and the moment in history we live in. It can be difficult in today’s 24-hour, nonstop, always-on environment, but I was reminded of the bigger picture on a recent visit to Colombia.
A group of us, including four volunteer board members of Grameen Foundation, were in Antioquia, a largely mountainous area in the northwestern part of the country. Grameen Foundation has been working there with farmer cooperatives and other organizations to help smallholder coffee farmers earn more from their land by creating farm management plans and undergoing individualized training and certifications that give them access to larger markets.
Sitting at a desk in Washington, D.C., New York or elsewhere, it’s easy to paint a picture in our minds about the work involved. Meeting with the farmers brought a deeper understanding of how this initiative will improve their families’ lives and the progress they’ve already made.
It is an important reminder of the positive changes taking place around the world. In this year’s Grameen Foundation Annual Report, we spotlight how specific innovations have increased access to life-changing agricultural, financial and health care services and are helping communities break the cycle of poverty—even as we challenge ourselves and our allies to accelerate the pace of change.
Thank you for your continued interest in Grameen Foundation’s work. We value your support and input because fighting global poverty must be a collective effort. Please read the report and give us your thoughts about our work and about the report itself. And be sure to stay abreast of our activities by following us on Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn.