This project is based on a philosophy of working with communities who have asked for support, so that the solution is driven by the priorities of the community rather than imposing outside goals or values. The first building block of identifying beneficiary communities through participatory processes is critical to the success of the project, as trust and collaboration will ensure better outcomes. Community investment and eagerness to engage in sustainable actions are also critical traits to identify in the beneficiary communities as they will be taking the lead on their ecosystem conservation and restoration efforts.
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Local partner organizations and/or field staff serve as local liaisons with rural and indigenous communities, building relationships and trust
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Local field staff organize community assemblies
- Building trust with communities is important, as they may have had negative prior experiences with outside agents or groups exerting pressures on their land