Summer in the Field

This summer was filled with life-changing experiences as we embarked on a series of unforgettable Insight Trips, beginning in the vibrant communities of Colombia, journeying through the heart of Uganda, and culminating in the rich landscapes of Malawi. Each destination offered a unique glimpse into the lives of those we serve, leaving our Board of Directors, staff, and donors not only impacted by the stories they heard but also inspired by the resilience and hope they witnessed. Join us as we revisit these journeys of connection, purpose, and impact, where every encounter left us wanting to do more.

A Journey of Friendship: The Klopps’ Insight Trip to Uganda

This summer, longtime Opportunity donors Megan and Mark Klopp visited Uganda on an Insight Trip. After more than 18 years of supporting and advocating for Opportunity's mission, this was the Klopps’ first trip to see the work firsthand, meet clients and staff, and ask real-time questions in the field. Along with the 10 other travelers, they invited their best friends and travel buddies Mary and James Romano to join them in the journey.

"We had always planned to go on a safari vacation together so when we learned about the trip to Uganda we thought it the perfect opportunity to introduce our friends to the amazing work that Opportunity does and have them join us on our first Insight trip," Megan shared. “We loved the experience with the clients and getting to meet them, learn about their entrepreneurship efforts, see their businesses and the heartwarming success of their efforts! Visiting the precious children in their schools was a highlight. Also, so enjoyed the group and meeting new friends with the same interest in Opportunity. Having the game drives and the gorilla trek were perfect icing on the cake and a real treat!”

We are so grateful that our Board of Governors Megan and Mark shared their belief in the global work that Opportunity does with others in such an impactful way!

A Journey of Impact: The Board of Directors Visit Colombia

On a recent trip to Colombia, the Board of Directors experienced the significant influence of Opportunity International’s initiatives. This visit provided a compelling insight into the communities we assist, and the Board members were profoundly touched by the tenacity and resolve of the clients they encountered.

The interactions with the clients emerged as a memorable part of the trip. Despite enduring circumstances that many would deem unbearable, the clients’ resilience and hope were truly motivational.

Yaneth de Jesus Guerrero, the owner of Los Girasoles de Bethel, a nursery and primary school in one of Cartagena’s most economically disadvantaged areas, left a lasting impact on the group. Despite having only 50 students and facing numerous challenges, Yaneth remains steadfast in her mission to provide these children with an education. She monitors her students’ progress through middle and high school, committed to their success against all odds.

Maria Mercedes Ramos, a participant in the Graduation Program who established her own restaurant selling soups and traditional dishes, was another remarkable person. Despite confronting significant family issues, Maria has built resilience and found emotional balance through the group support offered by the program. She utilized the support she received from Opportunity to expand her product range and grow her business, substantially enhancing her family’s living standards. Maria’s eagerness to learn and evolve is a testament to the Graduation Program’s impact.

The Board was also struck by the local staff’s professionalism, dedication, and positivity as they work relentlessly under challenging conditions to serve clients. The Board acknowledged that the success of Opportunity International’s initiatives is deeply tied to the dedication of these exceptional individuals. The visit to the Graduation Program was especially significant. While the Board had been presented with numerous briefings about the program, experiencing it in person added a new dimension to the saying “data are people.” Observing the program’s tangible impact on clients’ lives was both humbling and inspiring.

This journey had a deep effect on the Board. Each field visit reinvigorates their commitment to Opportunity International’s mission, enhancing their understanding of our initiatives and the complexities of operating in low-income countries. Interacting with the staff and observing their daily efforts made a lasting impact, reminding the Board of the importance of ensuring the welfare of those who perform this crucial work.

The Board departed Colombia with a rejuvenated sense of mission, dedicated to sharing the narratives of those they encountered and urging others to experience the impact of Opportunity International’s work firsthand.

A Journey of Purpose: Jeff Keuss’s Insight Trip to Malawi

When Jeff Keuss began searching for ways to make the next chapter of his life more focused and intentional, he found an answer in Team Opportunity’s challenge to climb Mt. Kilimanjaro, followed by a visit to Malawi to meet the clients he was fundraising for. "I had been praying for this," Jeff shared. "Opportunity International not only provided the chance to serve but also equipped me with the training to use my gifts and network in truly powerful ways."

In the months leading up to this trip, Jeff worked closely with the team to learn about the people they were fundraising for. After hiking Mount Kilimanjaro, Jeff and the other 7 climbers traveled to Blantyre, Malawi, to visit women in Opportunity’s graduation program who were starting new businesses and learning foundational financial skills to help them work their way out of poverty. Women like Jennipher, who lived on less than 50 cents a day and said she was once mocked by her neighbors. With Opportunity’s training and support, Jennipher was empowered to start her own grocery stand and began to change every area of her life, from sending her kids to school to putting food on the table, to standing proud in her community. “The people who were laughing at me are now buying from me,” she said.

"I still remember walking into one of the villages we were supporting after all those months of prayer and preparation," Jeff recalled. "Nothing could have prepared me for the joy and hope I saw in the faces of the women we were walking with and learning from. It was truly humbling, life-changing, and inspiring."

Since returning, Jeff has been sharing the impact of the trip with his donors. "The more I tell my donors about the difference they've made, the more amazed they are at how far and deep that impact has been," he said, reflecting on the transformative power of their contributions.

For those considering getting involved with Opportunity International, Jeff's advice is heartfelt: "If you have any interest, I encourage you to prayerfully consider joining an Insight Trip. It will change your life, just as it did mine."