Foundation for International Development Assistance
“True Development must be in the hands of the people. If it is not envisioned by the people, owned by the people, and managed by the people, it will surely fail.”
Jack & Anne Wall founded FIDA, Founder of FIDA, 1984
I spent several years serving as a Board Member of FIDA U.S. It was an important part of my Haiti journey. I hold my memories of the time I spent in places like Zoranje, and walking around the farms and fields of the cooperatives we worked with in a special place in my heart. The model of partnering with cooperative farmers by funding and building adult literacy training centers is unique, and the impact is far-reaching.
I have many memories of the days we spent climbing the hills and mountains roads to visit our cooperative groups. The remote locations up winding, dusty paths held hidden gems, like secret oases where sanctuaries of calm were tucked inside of an enclave.
Upon arrival, the heat of the engine cooled, and the sun seemed to beat down on us a little bit less. The wind would blow with a softness, and the trees, which inexplicably grew atop the dry mountains, would sway. After several hours of climbing the elevation, we would unload and spend precious time with members to catch up and check-in. Children and small animals would run about, sustained by love and faith, and the elected council would meet with us to discuss their progress.
The cooperative farmers would proudly show us their adorable, thriving chicks. We would learn about their work, their education, and the confidence they had. These partnerships work. These beautiful communities make their way. One small farm at a time. They have grit and confidence, and they are determined to succeed. For themselves and for their children.
One of the best parts of the experience of traveling to see the communities we worked with was visiting the literacy centers. Members who had previously never been educated enthusiastically spelled their names! It was beautiful to see. I always loved knowing that they would never again sign their names with their thumbprints or an “X”. What a beautiful piece of knowledge, one’s identity.
FIDA accomplishes many things in Haiti. I encourage you to take a look at the website to learn more about the projects taking place. It is incredible to see all that the organization has accomplished. I am honored to have participated in a small piece of the history of it all.
Aricia Fleurimond, The Woman Who Took Liberty, is a wonderful story about a woman in Haiti I’d like for you to learn about:
https://fida-pch.org/2005/07/05/the-woman-who-took-liberty/
You can learn about FIDA’s programming here:
https://projects.propublica.org/nonprofits/organizations/472300976
