RESOURCE DEVELOPMENT
Changing Lives - One family at a time
by Harry Olfert
It is exciting to hear what happens when a family enters into a partnership with IDE and its donors/investors. Your donation creates an opportunity
After purchasing a treadle pump in Zambia, the Chakanyuka family is now cultivating more than two hectares of irrigated crops. Not only is the family healthier due to the variety of produce, but IDE’s links with supermarkets and vegetable export companies have helped them to increase their standard of living. Mr. Chakanyuka was able to build and furnish a house for his family. “From vegetable growing, we have paid school fees of US $138 every three months for our six children,” says Mrs. Chakanyuka. “Our life is much better and we eat more food variety than before we bought a treadle pump,” adds Mr. Chakanyuka.
Can you envision the change for this family? Amazing! Imagine the future for the next generation and the one following.
Look back with me for a few moments. Some of you reading this article will share my story. Some 80 years ago my grandparents, with my parents as teenagers, arrived on Canadian soil with all their earthly possessions in hand. Local creditors helped fund the acquisition of a parcel of land to begin farming. I, along with many of you, enjoy a good living because of the opportunity our grandparents had in a new country.
Can it happen in places like Zambia, Nepal or Vietnam? Not only can it, but it is happening! It is happening because many of you have made a partnership-donation in support of IDE. We have already received commitments exceeding last year’s total of $550,000. Thank you.
Now we have the opportunity to focus on IDE Canada's 2008 goal to raise $720,000. We are asking you to consider your involvement for the current year. December 31st is our fiscal year end. Consider a gift-investment similar to 2007. Remember, $250 offers the possibility for a family to be lifted out of poverty, not only for today, but for the next generation and beyond. In a recent phone conversation with a 2007 donor, I was delighted to hear her say , “I will do 10 families this year.”
We can make a difference. Yes, we can change lives one family at a time.