The Foundation for Sustainable Development supports the efforts of grassroots development organizations in the Global South that are working to better their communities, environments, and the economic opportunities around them. We believe lasting change begins with community development and is only sustainable if it comes from and is supported by the members of these communities. Also, through our programs, we aim to raise international awareness of the economic challenges in developing countries and support cross-cultural communities in finding more effective solutions to development issues.

Description

The Foundation for Sustainable Development (FSD) is a non-profit 501(c)(3) organization founded in 1995 to fight global poverty at the community level. Our model incorporates three unique programs that develop underserved, international communities in a collaborative and sustainable manner:

1. Sustainable Development of Community-Based Organizations:
Our professional field staff, roving consultants, and program participants provide on-site technical training and capacity building to over 200 community-based organizations throughout Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Our partner organizations address economic, social, environmental, and educational needs.

2. Development Training for Interns and Volunteers in the Field:
FSD provides a comprehensive training and immersion program for interns and volunteers seeking hands-on development experience in Latin America, Africa, and Asia. Program participants collaborate with one of our 200 partner organizations to design and implement projects that reflect community needs and sustainable goals.

3. Grantmaking to Projects and Initiatives Lead by Our Partner

Organizations:

FSD grants funds, from donors and institutions, directly to the projects and initiatives implemented by our partner organizations, site teams, interns, and volunteers. We are proud to say that 100 percent of all funds given to FSD are allocated toward project work in the field.

These three program areas work in-tandem to strengthen our partner organizations and their communities, while providing interns and volunteers with the skills necessary to effectively engage development. As a collaborative effort, FSD facilitates sustainable solutions through seven overlapping development subjects: micro-enterprise/microfinance, health, environment, youth and education, women's empowerment, community development and human rights.