Sept 17, 2012
Erik Badger

In a previous blog post I described how we were using the Circles of Change method to introduce participation and inclusive leadership skills to the Habitat for Humanity housing community in Santo, Leogane. This project adapts the standard program so that participants could work together to develop a self-governance plan for the new community.

Last Thursday, after 4 months of learning to collaborate and considering how they’d like to do this, the community at Santo held its first election. They elected the members of a new organization they’re establishing to provide a governance structure and means to manage community issues. Candidates gave speeches, making their case for why they should be elected, and fellow residents then cast ballots to select them. The organization is called, SIDDEVAS, which translates: “Dedicated Citizens For The Development of the Habitat Village in Santo.”

We’re thrilled about our partnership with Habitat for Humanity and the opportunity it has provided to adapt the Circles of Change method in this way. We look forward to continuing to work with the community as it evolves toward independence and autonomy.