My Nonprofit Reviews

I have been with this organization in one role or another for most of its 30-year history. During my time, I have seen it develop from a collection of well-intentioned US volunteers trying to make a difference in San Martin Chiquito to a highly effective organization that improves the health, education, environment and economic conditions for the people of the community. In my observation the indicators that make Local Hope/Zela AID Partnerships for Self Reliance stand out include:
1. Years of investment in the education of children have paid off. The Guatemalan operation (Xela AID) is led by a highly competent home grown staff who have clear programmatic responsibilities and who define and measure their annual performance goals.
2. Progressive board development and education by the Local Hope arm have resulted in a board that is strategic, planful, and committed to supporting Xela AID through a wide range of charitable giving pathways. Local Hope is now in the midst of a capital campaign to sustain Xela AID for the long term.
3. The first building Xela AID built was a primitive weaver's hut. Now, there are two modern and useful mult-story buildings that house: health care clinics and services, classrooms for pre-school and special needs children; spaces for after-school study; eco-guest lodge and banquet facilities that provide employment and income to Xela AID; computer classrooms to support student learning; meeting spaces for womens' literacy classes, youth leadership programs, and Senior Citizen services and support.

In short, all of the essential structures and processes are in place that would make any organization envious. Because I have had the privilege of seeing Local Hope/Xela AID mature over time into a vibrant and critical contributor to a remote Guatemalan village, I have made it a priority for my time and resources.