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From Nicaragua: Subir (to climb)

Here in the Andes, the elevation can get to you. For me, the transition from life at sea level in Davis to the 9,000-foot high city of Quito was quite the unexpected challenge. Altitude gain can make you dizzy, even sick if you do not take precautions.

For those first few days you feel a little lightheaded and out of it. Walking up a flight of stairs feels akin to finishing a half-marathon. You sleep 12 hours a night. It takes time to get used to being so high in the sky. The Spanish word for gaining elevation is “subir”. It also means rising or moving up. “Subir” isn’t easy. But it is definitely worth it.

The city of Quito is literally tucked in the clouds and nestled between majestic mountains. There are endless photo opportunities. The city center is so dense with historical landmarks, unique architecture, and cultural exhibitions that it has been named a world heritage site.

However, Carolina and I are not here to be tourists. We are in Ecuador to conduct better understand a savings programs offered by local savings cooperatives in collaboration with Blum Center partner, Freedom from Hunger.

The goal of AIM is to teach youth responsible money habits by providing them with savings accounts and financial education. We are especially interested in learning about how the program uses technology to encourage youth to save – this includes the micro-finance/cooperatives sending out motivational and informative text messages to youth and even collecting deposits door-to-door with smart phones that can print transaction receipts.

Carolina Tavarez, undergraduate in Spanish, and I will travel to schools and to the homes of youth involved in the program in order to evaluate the program.


Randall Cass, graduate student, International Agricultural Development
with Lady Carolina Tavarez, undergraduate student, Spanish

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