The English lessons, yoga classes, workshops and counseling sessions have all been wonderful ways for me to get to know the beneficiaries, as well as to help them in concrete ways. But most of my time here is spent in the Association’s office, where I have been working helping the organization to implement reporting and monitoring tools that will make it eligible for the larger (Western) grants that it so desperately needs to cover its operating costs and to help it expand its programs.

I have been working on some communications tools, like a Facebook page (please check it out- Tubahumurize Association!) and a newsletter.

I have conducted an assessment of the Association’s micro-credit loan program and reported my recommendations for modifications to this program to my supervisor.

I have been working on reports to funders and have been seeking out and fostering relationships with new potential partners or funders. Tying all these elements together, I have been helping the Coordinator to write the organization’s Strategic Plan.

I have been very surprised by the extent to which my previous experience in the non-profit world, albeit in the conservation field, has been applicable here. I had no idea that I knew half as much as I seem to! That said, for a small NGO struggling to obtain funding, there really are no easy answers. This work is definitely challenging, and I anticipate that it will take up the bulk of my energy for the next portion of my internship.

Category: On location, Rwanda // Add Comment »