History
International Friends of Belize (IFOB) was started in the spring of 2004 by a group of returned Peace Corps volunteers who had all served in Belize. Founding members included: Jeffrey Cleveland, Kristi Drexler, Robin Mardeusz, Maya Ravindranath, Sarah Reynolds, Sandy Roter, Donna Statler, Maura Varley, and Brenda (Link) Williams. By April 2004, the initial steering committee was formed, bylaws were written, 501(c)(3) applications and paperwork were submitted, and two small seed grants were secured — one from the National Peace Corps Association (NPCA), with which the organization is affiliated; and the other from Johns Hopkins University. In 2012, the organization changed its name to Full Basket Belize (FBB).
Since inception in 2004, the organization has grown significantly in both both world-wide support and contributions. In 2005 the first scholarship program was created in Stann Creek District. In 2006 IFOB's Community Grants Program was established. By the fall of 2012, 82 Belizean students had received scholarships to attend secondary school, and 20 community organizations had received grants in the areas of health, education, and environment.
Full Basket Belize biannually elects a Board of Directors. Day-to-day operations are handled by board members and a small group of volunteers. The organization's mission statement states that Full Basket Belize improves the education, health, and environment of Belizean communities through educational scholarships and community grants. Membership is open to all interested in helping Belize and Belizeans. Donations are welcome; visit www.fullbasketbelize.org.
Read more about this topic: International Friends Of Belize
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