The Purpose and Mission of Honduran Hope Network

Submitted by Jack on Sun, 02/28/2010 - 07:51

The entire purpose of Honduran Hope Network is to support the network of trusted resources in Hondurans who actually deliver useful services to Honduras to relieve the suffering of the poor. Much help is needed, and much is given, but the needs dwarf the given, and much of the given is wasted because what is delivered simply reflects the giver much more than the receiver. But there is hope, and there always will be. We have found and will find those who are wise enough to provide effective services within the existing culture without being overwhelmed or deterred by the obstacles it sometimes prevents. It is hope based on a love of life -- all life. It is hope based on wisdom -- distinguishing what can and should be done from that which simply wastes resources. It is objective hope rather than subjective inclinations.

Creative Solutions -- A Few Places to Jumpstart Your Thinking

Submitted by Jack on Sat, 03/07/2009 - 18:49

Afrigadget is an interesting blog filled with innovative ideas for making do with what's available -- mostly with things that are of very low value to others. Surely in the banana fields of Honduras, there are similar opportunities for creatively using what's been left behind.

The Sustainable Village provides a cornucopia of ideas to consider for both microenterprise and agriculture.  It's fun to look at the ideas, and most are low tech, rugged systems built with a lack of infrastructure in mind. Many are suitable for project type activities that can reasonably be completed within the duration of a volunteer brigade.

Monolithic Domes such as these are another good idea for Honduras and other Central America locations. They are relatively low tech to build, can be built in a week, and are termite proof, earthquake proof, hurricane proof, and mostly flood proof. I've participated in building one of these domes. We put a 50' diameter one up in less than a week.

These are starter ideas. Creativity abounds. Tap into that before you go to Honduras with higher tech solutions in hand. Creativity is really one of the joys of life. And sometimes it is amazing how it can benefit others.