The RAISE Process
How We Do What We Do
The foundation of community development lies in education and opportunities for personal and professional growth. RAISE Jamaica Ltd., a collaborative effort between RAISE Jamaica Ltd. and HEART (a Jamaican Training and Human Resource Institution), provides remedial secondary education and vocational training.
RAISE Jamaica Ltd. and HEART currently offer certificate programs in nursing and landscaping, which are designed to equip students with skills relevant to the local business sector. Additionally, agricultural practice and business training are provided to enable students to establish their own micro-enterprises within RAISE.
Furthermore, RAISE Jamaica Ltd. has a Memorandum of Agreement (MOA) with CASE (Jamaica’s College of Agriculture, Science and Education) to provide consultation and resources for agricultural enterprise owners.
Below is the model used to develop sustainable micro-enterprise agricultural businesses with RAISE Jamaica Ltd.
**Initial Investment**
RAISE’s operations commence with a financial commitment from private individuals, churches, and organizations. These contributions sustain our programs and facilitate partnerships with local farmers. Through this investment, we are able to implement initiatives such as:
Training individuals in sustainable farming practices.
Preparing and clearing land to provide opportunities for farming.
Securing initial seeds and tools for agricultural success.
Offering ongoing consultation from qualified agricultural professionals
**Micro-enterprises are subsequently established**
We establish a collaborative business partnership with farmers who have expressed interest and completed the requisite training.
These farmers cultivate a designated plot of land and raise certain livestock within a communal setting.
In return, we provide support, encouragement, and training throughout the process.
**Crops and Livestock are Marketed**
We guarantee a fair market price for produce, enabling farmers to realize the rewards of their labor
**Re-Investment**
Farmers retain a portion of their profits, increasing their financial resources and enabling them to enhance the quality of life for their families. This re-investment often occurs locally, contributing to the broader local economy.
Ten percent of the profit from each enterprise is allocated to community projects, guided by the “Community Advisory Board.” This board, comprising local Jamaican representatives, aims to address community needs.
The remaining funds are reinvested in RAISE, fostering the development of new micro-enterprise and business partnerships.