In-person trainings at ECHO Florida are an exciting way to connect with the needs of our network while investing the knowledge we steward with partners across the globe! ECHO Trainer Stacy Swartz is one of ten trainers who will dive into her expertise to share agricultural techniques, skills, and ideas. Stacy says, “I like to hear the passion our trainees have to serve, to learn how agriculture is a part of that passion, and then try to help them achieve their learning goals to better serve others.”

Introduction to Tropical Ag Development (TAD) will benefit those who are considering short- or long-term involvement in international agricultural development work and/or international project volunteers (e.g., Peace Corps). It can also be helpful to those who have been serving internationally for a few years but who would like to take a step back and re-evaluate their approach. Even part-time volunteers will benefit from this course including shortterm mission volunteers and missions committee members of churches involved in projects overseas.

Favorite classes from previous courses include Soils and Soil Life, Basic Botany for Gardening, and Introduction to Community Development, as attendees shared that these courses gave practical and actionable knowledge that will support their work around the world.

 If you’re a beginner, don’t worry, one attendee shared that TAD was a “great beginner course with a good flow, time for questions, and great Biblical connections with faith.”