World Dance for Humanity
World Dance for Humanity (WD4H) bridges cultures and helps people in need by supporting small, sustainable, grassroots projects locally and in the developing world, and by providing immediate aid in response to disasters. All charitable donations and class proceeds go to underserved communities where a small amount of money can inspire hope and change lives, and where we can develop deep connections to the people served.
Betsy Stivers
21 years at P&G in Manufacturing and Product Supply; Cincinnati, New York, Long Beach.
Betsy became involved in WD4H eleven years ago, joined the Board in 2014 and became VP in 2015. She sponsors multiple students and has worked closely with the Rwandan-based Program Director and Business Coordinator to create a swift, efficient way of tracking the results for each locally created business. Despite many challenges and with Betsy’s guidance, nearly all of the existing businesses are reporting a small profit.
Betsy writes in her letter of recommendation, “I have enjoyed the opportunities the Foundation has given me to highlight the impact of PGAF grants to WD4H to your current and potential donors. PGAF’s generosity in funding ten of our businesses, improvement projects, and training/support through prior grants is making a significant difference in the lives of our 28 cooperatives.’
WD4H has funded 24 cooperative businesses, 10 of which were funded by previous PGAF grants. The businesses are managed collectively by the co-op and its leaders; the revenue generates a sustainable income that supports the entire community. They include a pig farm, a fish farm, several bakeries, a café, several sewing businesses and a brickmaking business among others. The businesses generate sustainable income that supports the entire community. 18 are currently generating profits: $12,035 (’22) and $18,918 (’23), a percentage of which go to each co-op member via yearly dividends. WD4H expects growth to continue through 2024 and 2025 thanks to the Business Training, oversight from the Business Coordinator, and the involvement of the emerging young co-op leaders, the Business Students funded by part of the grant (see below).
The PGAF grant will fund 3-day training event in 2025 attended by 80 representatives from each of the 28 cooperatives, fund for the year the cost of a Business Coordinator who helps manage the 24 supported businesses, and fund tuition/board expenses for 4 university students.
Odette endured unimaginable loss during the genocide, losing her husband, family members, and even her arm in the violence. Left alone to raise three children, she faced immense trauma and hardship, struggling daily just to survive.
Her turning point came when she joined the Abishyizehamwe Cooperative. Through the co-op, she found not only a source of income but also a path to healing and self-sufficiency. Today, she plays a vital role in its development and has transformed her life.
“As a widow and genocide survivor, I can truly say that this cooperative saved my life. I once wandered from house to house begging for food, but now I share what I have with those in need. With the dividends from our P&G Alumni Foundation-funded business, I achieved what once felt impossible—I bought land and even a prosthesis for my lost arm.
I am no longer just surviving; I am thriving. Thanks to the support we received, I now belong to a community that provides for others. Comparing my past to my present, I am filled with gratitude for everyone who made this possible. I pray for endless blessings upon you all!”