Since 1997, SHI’s longest-standing program, Honduras, has transformed thousands of farms, lives, and livelihoods. Our model is proven and effective, and continually evolving.
Building on almost three decades of success, the program continues to adapt to better serve partner farmers. By integrating new collaborative learning spaces, business development strategies, and strong local partnerships to our core model, our team is laying the foundation for a model that can be launched in other regions.
We meet farmers where they are — whether they’re beginning to restore degraded land or expanding family businesses. No matter the starting point, SHI provides tailored, hands-on support that sets the stage for long-term sustainability and growth.
All-Time Program Achievements
New Additions to SHI’s Model
While our mission remains the same — nourishing communities and the Earth — we’re refining our approach to better address the evolving needs of farming families.
Newest additions to our model include:
Farmer-led Design: We co-create solutions with farmers. Each year, SHI surveys program participants to understand what’s working and what needs improvement. Based on this feedback, families help define the program’s goals.
Out of 250 families currently in the program, the goal is for 180 or more families to adopt at least six agroecological practices on their land.
Farmer Field Schools: Collaborative learning spaces where farmers teach and learn from one another. These peer-led hubs promote teamwork, knowledge sharing, and capacity building.
To date, twelve Farmer Field Schools have been established across Honduras.
Farmer Promoters: Local leaders trained to work directly with families, extending the reach of SHI Field Trainers. Promoters help accelerate the adoption of sustainable practices and serve as trusted, relatable messengers in their communities.
Increased Income Opportunities for Farmers: Past SHI participants have expressed interest in moving beyond subsistence farming to building profitable agribusinesses. In response, SHI piloted the Promoter 4 Change project, which focused on business development. The pilot proved successful, and its results have been integrated into our full program. Through these new opportunities, farmers now learn the same sustainable practices and more, including marketing and creating a customer base.
Currently, we are serving 26 communities, restoring 370 acres through reforestation efforts, and supporting 190 coffee and cocoa producers.
Partnerships: We’re partnering with community-led as well as international organizations — including the Honduran government — to advance agroecology, food security, and environmental stewardship. Through our training process, we strengthen skills and capacities, so communities can drive their own futures.
Climate-Friendly Technologies: From irrigation and rainwater harvesting systems to mobile apps and carbon drawdown measurement tools, we’re exploring technologies that boost productivity while staying true to our ecological mission. All tools are chosen for user friendliness, environmental harmony, and real-world effectiveness.
Meet the Team Driving This Work
The success of our Honduras program wouldn’t be possible without our exceptional local team.
SHI’s team on-the-ground in Honduras.
Joel Castillo, Country Representative
With over 15 years of experience, Joel brings a strong commitment to rural development and sustainable agriculture. His leadership is grounded in years of hands-on work with farming families.
Alex Borjas, Program Manager
With over 24 years in the field, Alex is a champion of equitable food systems. He plays a key role in ensuring every farming family receives the tools and support they need to thrive.
Melvin Argueta, Administrator
Raised on a farm and trained in accounting, Melvin combines lived agricultural experience with financial expertise. With over 20 years in administration and accounting, he ensures transparency and accountability in every aspect of the program.
MEAL Officer, Danny Rosa Delarca
Danny holds a degree in Forestry Engineering and a Master’s in Project Management. His background in government institutions and international cooperation allows him to lead our Monitoring, Evaluation, Accountability, and Learning efforts with precision.
Field Trainers: Daniel Peréz, Frank Portillo, Ileana Figueroa, and Orbin Castro
Our Field Trainers bring a powerful blend of community-rooted knowledge and formal education — in Forest Engineering and Environmental Resource Management. Their connections to the region are key to delivering hands-on, tailored support to farmers.
Fun fact: Orbin’s parents graduated from SHI’s program — inspiring him to carry the mission forward as a Field Trainer!
Thanks to our proven model, ongoing innovation, and the dedication of our local team, the Honduras program presents a growth opportunity for SHI. The farmers we serve are more than participants; they are co-creators, shaping and strengthening the program with their insights and leadership.
At every step, farmers remain at the heart of our work — because we know that lasting change begins with them.
