International Foundation of Hope (IFH), USA offices in Wenatchee, WA and Grand Junction, CO, is a charity that has been working in Afghanistan since 1998 on projects related to economic development, community empowerment and education.

From the Russian invasion in 1979, through a civil war from 1989 to 1994, and Taliban rule from 1995 to 2001, the once productive agricultural country has had irrigation ditches filled with silt, forests cut down, orchards destroyed and countryside has been heavily mined. IFH staff has had relationships with Afghanistan for more than 40 years, and strives to work with local community leaders to identify needs and implement projects.

In early years, IFH established health clinics, developed a women’s quilting project and provided food, blankets, medicine and clothing to the people of Afghanistan. The current focus has switched to development and education.

Agriculture is the foundation of the Afghan economy. IHF provides modern training in the production of grain and vegetable crops, nut trees, fruit orchards and vineyards. Demonstration orchards have been developed. American colleges, such as Iowa State University and Wenatchee Valley College, are developing educational programs for Afghan agriculture, which are disseminated by IFH staff. Nangarhar University in Afghanistan and the Ministry of Agriculture provide extension agents to work in IFH programs.

Specific agricultural projects include orchard development, tree nurseries, drainage projects, canals and other infrastructure and training projects.

IFH works closely with local community councils of elders (shura) in many administrative districts and precincts, and have helped establish special interest councils for nomads, youth, academics, religious minorities, writers and for the first time, women.

The Primary School of Hope in Kabul was founded in 2000 and today serves 620 boys and girls receive education in Grades 1 to 7 in one of the best schools in Kabul. The Hope School plans to add one grade each year, reaching the full 12 grades by 2010. More computers are being added, and teacher training is being provided.

Donation, fundraising and other information on their activities can be found on their website.