Many Bolivian communities lack the essential infrastructure required to maintain a healthy economy. Clean water, proper sewage and garbage systems, irrigation, plumbing, and basic housing are in severe need of development in socioeconomically excluded areas. For example, FSD works with a community-owned neighborhood for women who have experienced intra-familial violence. The community, Maria Auxiliadora, is self supported and must build its own infrastructure completely. FSD works with the residents of the community to build homes and streets, while developing agriculture projects that will support their nutritional needs.

Another project that is currently underway is in the small community of Pizorga. About 150 families live in Pizorga, and they currently do not have potable water. The potable water storage and transportation system, which was initially constructed almost 20 years ago by Unidad Santaria (a governmental organization that no longer exists), was intended to bring potable water to this community of potato and corn farmers. In 2002, the system broke due to heavy rains and the antiquity of the tubes that are used to transport water from a mountain stream to the community. The lack of potable water directly translates into a high incidence of water-related diseases. Parasitic ailments are common and result in high rates of diarrhea. Furthermore, when these illnesses are combined with the meager diet of potatoes, rice, and corn, these problems are exacerbated. Those afflicted are unable to absorb or retain nutrients leading to lethargy, exhaustion, and other serious ailments.

Those who suffer from illnesses related to the lack of safe drinking water lose more than their health. When community members are sick, they are unable to work in their fields, and thus lose potential income due to the reduced amount of time planting, weeding, and harvesting crops. In addition, local school teachers say that youngest students are especially susceptible to becoming sick from unsafe water, resulting in missed school days and a fragmented education.

Supporting fundamental infrastructure is essential to building strong communities. Infrastructural development does not require interns and volunteers to have vast building experience. Many of the projects are extremely basic and simply need someone to gather community resources into an effective plan. Whether you are a professional engineer or simply want to help communities in need, your time and resources will be put to effective use during your work with FSD.

Read more about Community Development programs and opportunities initiated by our Community Partners in Bolivia.

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