An integrated approach to sustainable development

 At Yanapuma we utilize an integrated strategy for sustainable development based upon encouraging participation and collaboration and avoiding paternalism. Within this model project development takes place in discrete phases and areas, but always with an understanding of how the parts will fit together into a unified strategy. To this end projects are always developed with a long- term view of facilitating and sustaining change processes through the creation of economic opportunities, delivery of services and capacity development. This approach entails a holistic programmatic vision of sustainable development always grounded upon the view that it is the people themselves who are the true drivers of their own future. Over the last two years the dialogue of defining our methodology has led us down a path that incorporates seven basic elements, all of which help to sustain a participatory action oriented and community driven approach to sustainable development:

-Collaboration
            Build confidence and transparency between the foundation and local beneficiaries

- Participation and Communication
            Construct spaces of dialogue in order to understand community needs and resources

- Networks
            Form organizational networks for project financing, development and implementation

- Capacity Development
            Promote social responsibility and dialogue through participatory project planning and action group formation

- Sustainability
            Promote sustainability through working alongside community action groups in project development

- Integration
            Implement multisectoral programs that integrate agriculture, health and education to promote a sustainable future together with local beneficiaries

- Evaluation and learning
            Monitor and evaluate projects with community action groups to improve project implementation