Puentes is a 501(c)3 non profit organization whose mission is to support grassroots sustainable development projects and programs in Peru.  In order to achieve our mission we partner with a wide variety of organizations in Peru and the United States.  Our constantly growing list of partners aids us in not only transferring much needed resources into needy hands but also information and education that will allow our beneficiaries to grow, succeed to take their place as actor in their community, country and world.

Our contacts with these groups involve a delicate balance of interests that must be governed by a basic set of values.  These values not only dictate our communication with partners and beneficiaries but also define what Puentes is.  Without these stated values much if Puentes work would be hollow and, ultimately, contradictory.

Our actions as a non profit are governed by four beliefs:

• Grassroots Development:  There is no one-siza-fits-all approach to international aid and development.  In facto the true solution depends on accepting that the most important actors in any project are the benefiaciaries and their opions and viewpoints are crucial to the development of a successful project.  as such at least one popularily elected representative (and typically more) of a beneficiary pool should be involved in project planning, development, execution and analysis.

• Networking:  Puentes will create an international network of parties interested in community based organization. Each member of this network has an integral part in ensuring the success of projects and will share ownership.  

• Honesty: Puentes must not falsely represent itself to partners and vice-versa.  Additionally partners, staff members and beneficiaries cannot misrepresent themselves to any stakeholder involved in Puentes or in a Puentes project. 

• Transparency: Puentes will operate in an open environment where project missions, processes, objectives and finances will be available to all stakeholders. 

Ann Drazkowski
Executive Director – Puentes