Cal and the beanstalk
Back in 1991 Cal Miller planted a bean in Bolivia. It grew into a
beanstalk, sort of.
In those days, Bolivians didn't grow or eat beans. Now they do,
thanks to Miller, who was MEDA's Bolivia country manager. He introduced
beans as a rotation crop to boost the soil and nourish villagers.
Farmers took his advice and grew beans. A bean recipe book was
produced to encourage consumption. Beans were packaged in small bags so
stores would handle them. Miller launched a national bean producers
association (ASOPROF) to promote exports to neighboring Brazil, the
world's largest consumer of beans.
Today, most lowland farmers grow beans. Many families have added
them to their diet. Children are healthier as a result.
Because of ASOPROF, that little bean has grown to become Bolivia's
second-largest agricultural export.
And the farmers, who are earning more money, fondly remember Miller
as the Mennonite "Mr. Bean."
