EPIC and our partners set goals in all our programs to measure our success. Sustainable development can be slow but when it is done right, poco a poco, we do see positive changes. The communities where we work need to see this change. Are the farmers seeing bigger yields? Is there more food at the table? Are health outcomes improving? Can young people remain in their communities and avoid immigrating up north? We have found that teaching sustainable agricultural practices, empowers families, increases food-security, reduces malnutrition, creates reliable income and give hope for a life at home.
The real strength of our organization lies in our local project leadership. We encourage young people to step into roles with more responsibility to continue building this valuable local capacity. We love when a young person has a great idea to improve their communities and makes a plan. Low self esteem for teens? Lack of physical education and road safety in schools? An Guatemalan aftershool program idea has grown into an exciting project that gets kids moving and is more than fun. They learn to work together, stay healthy and, most importantly, build the confidence they need to take on life.
