Example: SERRV

SERRV, a nonprofit organization with a mission to eradicate poverty wherever it resides, recently launched two new capacity building projects to develop producers’ independence.

Through its Africa Capacity Building Project, SERRV works on the ground to connect producers directly to other developmental organizations and resources in the area.  In Ghana, this project connected bolga basket weavers with Trade Aid Integrated for a train-the-trainers program. The best basket weavers have now passed on the skills and techniques they learned from SERRV to 240 rural basket makers in their area.

In Cambodia, artisans with VillageWorks previously paid an outside company to screen print fabric for their bags and scarves. SERRV worked with the group to demonstrate that the process was one the artisans could master, allowing them to not only create jobs and save money, but also to expand their skills and build confidence. VillageWorks now has its own printing workshop that uses SERRV-funded equipment to reach more artisans.

In 2009, SERRV also developed ArtisanWork.org as a place for artisans to learn, explore, and connect around issues important to their work. The site also includes discussion groups with fellow artisans and experts around the world to facilitate an exchange of best practices.

To learn more about their work in Principle 3 and all the Principles, visit Serrv.org