Reaching out. (associations outreach programs in the Caribbean region)(includes related article)

Reaching Out

Boys' Town and FRA were brought together by the Florida Association of Voluntary Agencies for Caribbean Action, Inc. (FAVA/CA), Tallahassee, a private, nonprofit organization founded in 1982 with the help of Governor (now U.S. Senator) Bob Graham. Through its International Volunteer Corps "Association Ambassadors" program, the group involves associations in Caribbean development. FAVA/CA was formed following a massive influx of Cuban and Haitian refugees that caused unprecedented social and economic pressures on the state. If there was any doubt before, this event made it clear that Florida's future is interwoven with that of the Caribbean, and what is good for that region is good for Florida.

The FAVA/CA initiative enjoys a unique statutory base in Florida law and receives important financial support from the state. Appropriations have been voted annually since 1986, when FAVA/CA Executive Director David Pasquarelli sold Florida lawmakers on the concept of Florida's own mini peace-corps. State funds constitute 26 percent of FAVA/CA's operating revenue.

FAVA/CA's Florida International Volunteer Corps has conducted more than 200 training and technical assistance missions in a dozen Caribbean countries in response to requests from government and nongovernment organizations alike. Drug abuse prevention, agriculture, accommodation for people with disabilities, management training, and preserving the environment are currently priorities for assistance. …