"I like the micro-loans idea. I saw that MEDA had a really well
developed program...And I also ended up talking to someone who was
fairly high up in another microfinance organization and he praised
MEDA's integrity. Micro-loans seem like such a practical way to help an
individual." - Ben Heppner, Grammy-winning Tenor (Ontario, Canada)
"MEDA is one of the few organizations that focuses on the long term
needs by helping people get the training, financial resources, and
advice needed to become self sufficient. Seeing these amazing results in
Paraguay solidified my support of MEDA and their approach to addressing
human needs through economic development." - Dan and Ezzie Sauder (Wauseon, Ohio)
"What I really enjoy about MEDA is that it is directly affecting people
all over the world. Someone like me who doesn't have a whole lot of time
or money to invest, can volunteer or participate and still feel like I'm
changing the world." - Luke Johnson, High School Student (Denver, Colorado)
"MEDA has touched the lives of many with a small simple loan. I have
seen the effect it has had on those that have participated. It has given
pride, confidence, encouragement, hope, a grateful heart and an attitude
that "I can do it." -Dallas Steiner (Orrville, Ohio)
"For me, MEDA means making an impact. It means contributing to God's
kingdom, working toward God's justice and facilitating applications that
solve justice and poverty. Every step that MEDA makes is a positive
step. You can't say this for all charitable organizations." - Dave Guenther (Winnipeg, Manitoba)
"Often people need a few hundred dollars to turn an idea, a dream, into
a viable business that will provide for their family and others...And
that is exactly what MEDA does. MEDA provides the seed money to turn
dreams into viable businesses for thousands of people around the world
every year. We are happy to support that." - Ray and Linda Loewen, (Manitoba, Canada)
Throughout the year MEDA members get together to share ideas... here's a
glimpse of the past MEDA year...
Set the Pace 2006 Tampa Bay Convention
"I was very impressed with the First Lady from Paraguay and the
testimony that she lives and what she's doing for her country. It was
neat to see her mingle with MEDA. Her group was always with her but
people could feel very free to go talk with her." - Diane Nafziger (Goshen, IN)
"The announcement at the AGM of the MEDA Trust really caught our
attention of something we want to do with our boys aged 9 and 12. They
can see where the dollars are going." - Rick and Ruth-Ann Shantz, (London, ON)
"The highlight for me was the address of Keith Reinhard. He spoke
directly with some of the concerns I have with some of our businesses
being adversely impacted by our government's foreign relation policies.
Twenty years ago 70% of overseas buyers preferred US suppliers. Today
83% of overseas suppliers prefer not to deal with US suppliers." -Wilmer Otto (Arcola, IL)
Innovative ideas, MEDA launches MEDA Trust web site...
"When I heard about MEDA Trust in Tampa, I thought it was very
interesting. I think what may prove to be the success of it is that
people know where their dollars are going. My interest is in how it will
spread MEDA further." - Don and Carol Horning
"I've enjoyed using it. The kids and I both picked someone to grant a
loan to. The kids are 13. They were the ones who decided who we were
going to grant a loan...I think it's good for the kids to see that even
something small like $50 does a lot of good in other places." - Jonathan Crawshaw
"One of the biggest things for this conference was the announcement of
the new project (MEDA Trust). That was the highlight of everything. It's
new, it's innovative and it's just that connection. I've been on several
MEDA tours and there is something special about connecting with people
receiving the loans. It makes you want to give more." - Dale Classen
MEDA members give input into projects during trip to Tajikistan.
MEDA members give input into projects during trip to Tajikistan...
"I was personally inspired by MEDA's partnerships in Tajikistan. The
MEDA staff are doing an outstanding job in working together with the
people there, helping them to build their farms and small businesses.
But more than that, our team is able to inspire the people that change
is possible." -Wilmer Martin
"Seeing MEDA's projects in Tajikistan was a real highlight....With
MEDA's help, they now have access to new technology. We visited a farmer
who had constructed at least 3 types of solar drying systems. He was so
excited. It took 2 days for apricots to dry on his new machine, what
took 6 days using the traditional method. The new technology resulted in
a cleaner product in one-third the time." -George and Barbara Smucker
