Steve Adams and I just returned from the EWB International Conference held in Denver March 18 – 21st. As usual, the conference left me inspired to continue our hard work, being reminded that our four projects are part of a much larger, profound movement in bringing real change to developing communities. Seeing all the energetic students and hearing how their projects are shaping the focus of their future careers is also very inspiring.
The conference provided ample opportunities for networking with other chapters (both national and international), hearing great speakers, and learning what’s the latest with our organization.
One noteworthy presentation (presentation materials will soon be posted to the EWB-USA website):
- Forum on Challenges of Sustainable Economic Development: Four panelists discussed various approaches to sustainable development, often arguing between focusing on the triple bottom line (economics, people, environment) and the motivation of profit, vs. focusing less on market approaches and more on building relationships. Good arguments were given for both. All agreed that helping a community develop sustainably must include an appropriate Exit Strategy that clearly defines how systems will operate long after the NGO has left.
Wish I had time to write more about the other presentations. I highly encourage everyone to attend these conferences!
Looks like next year’s conference will be held in Louisville, Kentucky.
