Question 1

What does Manna Project International (MPI) do?

Accepted Answer

Manna Project International creates communities of young leaders that help break the cycle of poverty in underserved communities around the world. Our model focuses on health, education, sustainability, and livelihoods to strengthen communities in developing countries. All our projects combine the four topics to best address challenges in Kichwa rainforest communities.

Question 2

Where does MPI work?

Accepted Answer

Founded in 2007, MPI's Ecuador site serves the indigenous communities surrounding the Amazon Rainforest town of Tena, in the Napo province. We previously operated in the Chillos Valley in Ecuador, Chaquiyjá, Guatemala from 2010-2014, and in Managua, Nicaragua from 2004-2018. Our administrative office is located in Orlando, Florida.

Question 3

Who benefits from the work of MPI?

Accepted Answer

Communities: MPI identifies and serves targeted, high-need communities. Our primary beneficiaries are individuals living on less than $2/day.
Volunteers: The capacity development of MPI’s volunteers is of primary importance.
Local Institutions: MPI works with community institutions and leaders to ensure that our programs will grow organically from within the community.

Question 4

What does a volunteer gain from their time with MPI?

Accepted Answer

The capacity development of MPI’s volunteers is of primary importance. We value the sacrifice of time, resources, and comfort that accompanies international service. That’s why we provide our volunteers with targeted training and one-on-one mentorship, in addition to hands-on experience. International development is challenging work, but project leadership with MPI results in a dynamic, professional skill set that paves the way for the future.

Question 5

What types of programs would I work on with MPI?

Accepted Answer

We have programming in:

Public Health: work with local public health clinic, create and run workshops, nutrition program
Sustainability: help grow ecotourism businesses, trail maintenance, cultural preservation, medicinal plants
Gender Equality: work with a local women's group to decide group goals in line with future sustainability
Agriculture: work with local farmers to develop best practices around farming
Education: work with local youth as mentor

Manna Project International