CDI has been a great partner to Virginia Beach schools. By sharing their work and passions, students have a better understanding of how they can make small changes locally that have a global impact. Students are moved by the work CDI is doing in Haiti, but are also motivated by how to make a difference in their own backyard. CDI has supported classroom teachers, entire classes of students, and individuals who are passionate about environmental issues, food safety/security, urban tree canopy, carbon sequestration, and more. The school system could not be happier to partner with this organization.
CDI knows what it means to develop and foster sustainable and resilient communities. They epitomize what it means to think globally and act locally.
CDI is a collaborative of great minds, hearts, and intentions. Couple that with persistence, determination, and a hefty scoop of vision, and you’ve got yourself an inspired and nutritious recipe for a sustainable global future! This committed organization has created programs to shift the current paradigm of apathy. Communities helping communities. A beautiful intertwining web of educational and environmental programing, sustainable development, and socio-economic justice lay at the foundation and roots of CDI, but brotherhood and a real sense of global community are its soul. I am proud to personally know Matthias, one of the founders of CDI. He possesses a true to life ‘go getter’ spirit and accomplishes what he puts his mind to. I have seen first hand at New Earth Farm in Virginia Beach what hard work and a clear vision can produce. Set on a picturesque 21 acres in a lush and abundant field, this educational farm viscerally encompasses the goals of the organization as a whole complex. CDI is doing very important work, domestically and abroad. An organization like this, who lifts up communities around the world by being part of the solution, also needs to be supported globally so we can all reach the apex of our united goals.
I have worked in and around non-profit organizations for the better part of a decade and although I'm affiliated some great nonprofits, I have yet to meet an executive director, a leader, who is not only passionate about their organization, and being a leader, but passionate about learning, about being a student, so that they can lead more effectively and efficiently. Matthias Resch is that guy! His dedication to build and lead an organization that transforms the scope of agriculture and international relationships, thus transforming society is unmatched. CDI has an immaculate vision and plan on how to make said vision manifest. I eagerly look forward to working with CDI at the "New Earth Farm" in Virginia and hopefully visiting the farm in Haiti. I send an abundance of love and prosperity to the founder and entire organization. Much success!!!!!!!
With a grand vision for sustainable development and local engagement, CDi constantly impresses me with its commitment and dedication to its long term goals. CDi's approach to environmental stewardship and Haitian empowerment is further strengthened by its willingness to collaborate to create a greater impact. Surely, I am indebted to CDi for taking our little Haiti children's art project under its wing and allowed it to grow. CDi's efforts and successes have further encouraged me to be a more active participant and be more involved in it's progressive endeavors. Job well done, CDi!
There is no organization that can survive without a passionate founder who remains committed and continues to inspire others to get involved. Matthias has continued to inspire so many to reach the goal of sustainable development. As an organization CDi continues to work collaboratively within as well as with new organizations that build on the understanding of sustainable growth. CDi works hand in hand with A Better Haiti Art Contest to build the next generation of Haiti youths in their dream of a better Haiti. In that vein, CDi participates in sustainable development workshops during our last art contest. We look forward to more collaboration. Most of all, CDi is our non-profit sponsor. CDi is an organization with a vision and I support it!
CDi is one of the most effective, dedicated, and inspired group of volunteers I know. Their collaborative attitude has brought together a fantastic collection of professionals who are passionate about sustainable and equitable development. I continue to be impressed by the work they do here at home and abroad.
CDi is a very impressive organization that has promoted a forward thinking way of equitable farming and rural development.
I have been involved with CDi for three years now and I'm consistently impressed by how much they accomplish with such limited resources. Its activities are many and varied too - from planting trees and building composting latrines in Haiti, to growing organic produce and hosting workshops on organic cooking at its farm in Virginia, to promoting awareness of sustainable development practices and healthier living in New York City. All of this has been accomplished by a staff composed almost entirely of volunteers to date.
CDi is making an impact in the communities it serves by creating and investing in solutions for increasingly interrelated challenges such as the need for more renewable energy and low carbon cooking fuels, improved food security, and greater access to basic necessities like clean water and sanitation facilities for people in Haiti. The learning and application from these programs will benefit all of us too as the effects of climate change become more apparent. I would highly recommend supporting CDi or getting involved directly - volunteers are always welcome to explore how they can help. CDi is truly an exceptional non-profit organization and one to watch.
CDi is a very inspiring, forward-thinking group of passionate individuals. I've really enjoyed getting to know the people and cause, and I've enjoyed my involvement too. They attack poverty at the root and are organized in their approach. Furthermore, they are open to feedback and new ideas.
CDi and New Earth Farm are the most hands-on organizations I've ever seen; and I've seen a lot. I've worked in advocacy and nonprofit organizations for over 20 years. I've seen a lot of people with great intensions and heart, but so many still fall somewhat short when it comes to moving from advocates to social engeneers for their particular interest. CDi and New Earth Farm have it all: the love of something greater than themselves; the complete knowledge of all the factors affecting their particular interest; an approach to work and change that truly invites everyone to the table; and the understanding that true advocacy for change isn't merely petitions and calls to politicians, but living by example and making the future you desire. They do all this with humility and a great willingness to partner like few agencies I've seen. I look most forward to seeing how much more they grow over the next 5 years.
Terri Leasor M.Ed/Health Promotion
I have been involved with CDi for a number of years. I have seen the organization from its founding to where it has evolved to today. Still a volunteer organziation, everyone involved is highly passionate and inspirational. The organization has the ambition to devise revenue generating programs for sustained growth and expansion. The group started back in 2010 to provide relief to a community in Haiti, after the tragic earthquake. Since, they have scouted and cultivated relationships, which has informed their focal areas Sustainable Agriculture / Farmer Training, Energy Alternatives / Cooking Fuels, Environmental Restoration / Reforestation. They are in the process of starting an educational model farm in Haiti and already operate a farm in Virginia. Its' a beautiful place, where much fun is had and food is shared during various and ongoing Food Preservation and Cooking Classes. This organization thinks outside the box as it works to connect people to their food and to each other, across borders and boundaries. It is very deserving of your time, energy and donations.