CEPAD works with leaders at all levels in rural communities-community leaders, children and youth, women, and pastors-to help strengthen the leadership capabilities with the goal of bringing additional resources to respond to the needs of the citizens in each village.

Pastors often serve as leaders in rural areas where there are no formal government structures. Pastors receive basic theological trainings and workshops on how to provide some counseling to those in their communities.

This program focuses on women and youth in our partner communities to generate skills and abilities that encourage participation in the community through community banking, work training centers, and the patio project, which allows women to raise and sell pigs and chickens.

CEPAD works with small farmers to increase food production, improve economies, and protect natural resources through sustainable agriculture practices. We promote organic techniques and train farmers to make their own fertilizer, diversify crops, avoid chemical pesticides, and use water efficiently.

CEPAD facilitates relationships between Nicaraguans and others from around the world through our program of International Partnership and Solidarity. More than 30 groups a year visit and stay at our Nehemías Guest House to learn more about how to walk alongside rural Nicaraguan communities and be in solidarity with them.