MULTISECTORAL COMMUNITY DEVELOPMENT

This final evaluation covers the period 5/1/79 to 5/31/80 and is based on meetings with ICA officials, interviews with beneficiaries, site visits, and reviews of project records. A Community Development Fund was established to handle the money used to begin industrial and business enterprises within the community. The Fund has provided impetus to existing businesses and allowed new ventures to be established. The total fund was disbursed or committed during the life of the project. Because authorization to build the Community Center was delayed until the fourth quarter of the project, the building was not complete at project end. A temporary facility was constructed to house the Center in the meantime. A preschool program has been established in a borrowed room pending construction of a permanent facility. Twenty-two 3-year-olds have been enrolled, with community women assuming teaching roles. Two classes have graduated and entered first grade. An afterschool program was also designed to supplement the formal education program. A total of 60 six- to 12-year-olds have attended. The community kitchen has been equipped and operates through the assistance of volunteer mothers. Home and community gardens have also been established. Other programs include: hen and rabbit raising, child feeding, and food preservation. A demonstration farm was begun to teach intensive agriculture and water use, grow experimental crops, and form a working partnership with non-landed community residents. An irrigation study was carried out. An adult education program has focused on management techniques, leadership development, and new skills training. With ICA help, local leaders are assuming management of the various programs. The project has resulted in a broader physical and economic base in Sol de Septiembre, and in increased community activity. The project purpose will be fully achieved when all the programs are self-supporting under local management.