Rollins College Bonner alumni, Gabriela Tirado, is currently a Peace Corps health volunteer in The Gambia. She is currently working on a grant project to further the development of her community. As the Peace Corps volunteer, she has worked alongside her community conducting assessments of the needs and interests of community members. This project focuses on improving food security, maternal and child health, and women's economic empowerment by installing a solar-powered borehole well to support a women-led community garden in a rural farming community.
Limited access to reliable water has contributed to food insecurity, poor nutrition, and reduced economic opportunities for many families, particularly women and children. Through the installation of a solar-powered borehole, water storage tank, and irrigation system, the project will provide year-round access to water for growing fruits and vegetables. This reliable water source will increase the availability of nutritious produce, improve household health outcomes, and strengthen community resilience.
Beyond increasing food production, the project emphasizes long-term sustainability by providing women with training in sustainable gardening practices, irrigation management, nutrition, financial literacy, and leadership development. Women participating in the garden will also have the opportunity to generate income by selling surplus produce, with profits being reinvested into microfinance activities that support continued economic growth and financial independence.
The initiative reflects the Bonner Program's commitment to community engagement, capacity building, and social justice. Rather than providing short-term assistance, the project empowers local women and community leaders to manage and maintain the garden and water system through collaboration, shared responsibility, and transparent decision-making. Community members will contribute labor, participate in trainings, and oversee the long-term success of the project.
How to support this Peace Corps project
Supporting or sharing this Peace Corps Partnership Program initiative offers Bonner Scholars an opportunity to engage with a model of sustainable, community-driven development while advancing the values of service, leadership, and global citizenship.
To learn more about how you can apply to join the Peace Corps you can click the following link: https://www.peacecorps.gov