CEO Memo: Our Commitment to Our Mission

One thing that is constant in life is change. Indeed, CHOICE Humanitarian works every day to change lives. We do this in rural communities in seven countries in Central and South America, Africa, and Asia. We do this through focus areas of health, education, economic development, agriculture, and quality of life. And most importantly, we do this with individuals and families who face extreme poverty. Our global team is often brought to tears as honored witnesses to resilient community members who rise above the dense clouds of devastation.

Change also brings uncertainty. In the United States, the landscape of humanitarian work through nonprofit and international development sectors has been disrupted, and global relief structures are in a state of flux, leaving an uncertain future for millions of vulnerable people in desperate need.

Uncertainty can bring with it concern, and since CHOICE is a nonprofit organization that works in international development, there may be questions from the communities we serve, our partners, and our supporters. With the clarity that comes from unwavering purpose, I re-emphasize CHOICE’s commitment to our mission: we support the efforts of people around the world to reduce global poverty and build self-reliant, resilient communities.

Our co-founders started CHOICE in 1982 to change the world for the better. Over the past four decades, we’ve touched millions of lives. Each of those lives represents a real person: a kind elderly woman taking the first drink of clean water from the new community spigot; an excited young boy rising off the dirt floor to sit at a real school desk; a proud mother selling her beautiful artisan goods so she can feed her family. These are just a few examples, and countless more are ready to happen. They need only opportunity and resources. In these urgent circumstances, we’re renewed in our resolve to empower the vulnerable and underserved.

CHOICE Humanitarian’s seven values also form the foundation of what we stand for and guide our work. We believe in principles such as collaboration, unity, transparency, and inclusion. In fact, our very name—Center for Humanitarian Outreach and Intercultural Exchange—espouses the value of meaningful interactions that generate empathy and foster open-mindedness. It’s one of our core tenets to bring people together to learn from and cherish their shared humanity. This is especially vital when it comes to alleviating global poverty. The question of “why should I care about global poverty?” has real answers, and it needs passionate champions who will advocate for the most human of experiences: to connect and care for one another.

Thank you for being that champion. Thank you for making a difference through your generosity. As we navigate change and uncertainty, our dedication remains unchanged. CHOICE Humanitarian is here to serve, to uplift, and to support communities. We stand firm in our belief that people everywhere deserve the opportunity to thrive. You are integral to this collective effort, and we’re grateful for your dedication to this shared vision. Together, we’ll continue to build a better world.

Heather Cruz

Chief Executive Officer

CHOICE Humanitarian