Quarterly Report Q1 FY2021- ME&L: Generating Entrepreneurs and Sustainable Synergies (GENESIS)

The project aimed to increase protective factors for at-risk youth and former gang members in selected municipalities by achieving three strategic objectives. The first objective focused on consolidating a network of Outreach Centers (OCs) through multi-sectoral alliances to promote a culture of peace and increase protective factors. The second objective aimed to increase income generation opportunities for at-risk youth and former gang members through capacity building and mentorship. The third objective sought to strengthen FUNADEH's institutional capacities through standardization and consolidation of organizational processes. In May 2020, USAID granted GENESIS a four-month no-cost extension to conduct final project interventions delayed or affected by the COVID-19 pandemic. When the current quarter began, FUNADEH's focus was to close out the project, which included conducting final programmatic and financial reporting and phasing out staff contracts. However, in November 2020, the Eta and Iota hurricanes hit Honduras, causing significant damage to 20 OCs and forcing GENESIS to shift into full humanitarian response mode. The OC network, in collaboration with the private sector, reached over 1,700 families with humanitarian assistance. The OCs, coordinators, volunteers, and local community partners responded to the disaster with a herculean relief effort, but the OC network was severely stressed physically and financially due to the damage from the storms and the year-long pandemic. Prior to COVID-19, GENESIS had helped the OCs secure almost $500,000 in annual support from local and central governments. However, the public sector was unable to maintain funding during the pandemic. In response, USAID and FUNADEH agreed to a one-year cost-extension to pursue the general goal of the original project and specifically to address Objective 1 - rescuing and ensuring OC sustainability. This quarter was characterized by dramatic fluctuations, with FUNADEH winding down the project in October, responding to the natural disaster in November, and quickly ramping up the project in December. Some project activities were delayed due to the storms, COVID-19, and staff turnover. Despite these challenges, FUNADEH was able to rapidly respond and adapt to the changing circumstances. The project's ability to pivot and respond to the humanitarian crisis demonstrates its resilience and commitment to its objectives. The GENESIS project has made significant progress in achieving its objectives, particularly in consolidating the OC network and increasing income generation opportunities for at-risk youth and former gang members. However, the project's sustainability remains a concern, particularly in the wake of the natural disaster and the pandemic. The one-year cost-extension will provide an opportunity for FUNADEH to address these challenges and ensure the long-term sustainability of the OC network.