Recently, The New York Times joined other periodicals in reflecting on the doomsday outlook of many Americans. People anguish at the piling up of disasters and potential disasters from tsunami to earthquake to avian flu.  While their concern has motivated some philanthropic generosity, it seems to have also generated feelings of despair: that improving the condition of people in developing countries is impossible.

The Near East Foundation shares a deep concern about the crises that affect people’s lives around the globe.  But far from despair, we have a sense of optimism. For we see first hand the genuine progress being made by the people with whom we work in the Middle East and Africa.

In these countries one finds people suffering the devastation of famine, conflict, authoritarian government, and economic deprivation. Yet we find them to be people of great resilience, hope, energy, and commitment to the betterment of themselves and their communities.

They respond with gratitude and vigor to NEF’s participatory approach, which treats them as equal partners with a great deal to offer, but in need of a helping hand. Palestinian villages are developing democratic institutions and economic stability; displaced persons in Sudan are starting businesses and learning to improve their health and nutrition; Malians are forging community structures to ensure their food security and build the structures of civil society; women in Jordan and Morocco are gaining a place in the future of their society through training and cooperative ventures.

These are examples of real people whose real lives are improving.  Their stories unfortunately do not often make it to the airwaves or the newsprint of American media.  But they are no less a sign of hope for being hidden from sight.

They are why we are optimistic about the state of the world and about the future--and why we think you should be too. And, for those of you who support our work, these stories are why you should feel proud of having made a difference.  These people know they have enhanced their lives because of the generosity of average Americans and of American foundations and corporations who care.  I think there is no better “public diplomacy.”

As we approach the end of our 90th anniversary year, we at NEF can proudly say that we are continuing to bring hope, build friendships, and do good in the international arena as we enter our 10th decade. We are hard at work shaping NEF to be even more effective in the future. We can do more with your help.  Please be generous enough to include NEF among those philanthropic efforts you support.

Sincerely,                                                                       
  
NEF President