Reflections from FH Canada President Ben Hoogendoorn
Poverty-free communities within 10 years; it’s a thrilling goal. As many of us know, however, a great goal alone won’t guarantee results. Success is most often achieved through perseverance, inspiration and, in our Christian worldview, a healthy, thriving alignment with God.
Often before any development plans can be prepared, hearts and minds must be transformed. With a Biblically grounded view of God, self, community and creation, families find fresh hope for their future.A plan to succeed, especially in international development, is made up of many steps. And since each community we walk with faces unique challenges, priorities are deployed differently but include agriculture, education, health, leadership and gender equality.
This issue of Hope Notes highlights some of the incredible successes families around the world are celebrating after years of remarkable effort. Their tenacity of spirit, unwavering hope, and infectious joy is inspiring.
You’ll read about my recent trip to visit families in Chhuk, Cambodia. Their community graduated in 2006 but how they have built on their initial achievements astounded me. And all of it is progressing without any outside funding.
In the latest Hope Notes, you’ll see how all the phases of development are woven together to build sustainable futures for families around the world. I hope you find great reward in their stories - they are your successes too.
To view the Spring 2013 Hope Notes: http://issuu.com/fhcanada/docs/hopenotesspring2013
Be blessed,
Ben Hoogendoorn
President/CEO || FH Canada
