Development is a subjective and value-loaded concept, and therefore it cannot be simplified with a single definition. It generally implies a change that is desirable and it is often the result of achieving better organizational skills. Nevertheless, since what a desirable change means differs depending on the place, time and culture, there cannot be a universal consensus of what development is.
In RJI, we find essential for a non-profit organization like us to have a clear view of how we implement the concept of development and what we wish to achieve for our communities. In this sense, for RJI:
Development is not
- to get what the “developed countries / cities” have.
- to give people the things that they can get by themselves.
- to make people/communities dependent on foreign action and aid.
- to give people things that we think they need, even when they have never asked for them.
- just economic growth
- just access and infrastructure
Development
- starts from the communities´ real needs and vision.
- is what the people want to achieve in their communities.
- is to actively involve the people in the development of thier community
- is to raise the awareness about the importance of culture.
- is to empower people, specially youth to become a real Leader.
- is to teach in the communities the importance of a social, economic and environmental balance.
We work towards achieving a higher Human Development in our communities. This means having an integral approach towards creating an environment in which people can develop their full potential and lead productive lives in accordance with their needs and aspirations. To achieve this, more than just economic growth is required, as economic growth concerns only the financial and material aspects of life. In this way, by supporting Sustainable Community Development initiatives, we encourage growth that meets the needs of the present without comprising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs, and that balance the environmental, social and economic actors of the community.
At least 70 per cent of the world’s very poor people live in rural areas. In Central America, two out of every three rural people are poor as result from the combination of several factors that put people at a disadvantage position in relation with urban areas. For this reason, most of Reto´s efforts are directed towards Rural Development, were we focus on improving the basic necessities of life (shelter, health, education, etc.), boosting people’s self respect and assuring ideological and economic freedom for people.