An interview with Clínica Verde Treasurer Don Farrar.

Q: There are so many organizations out there trying to raise money and help people of misfortune. Tell me, what about Clínica Verde distinguishes it from other organizations -- and what drew you in?

Initially it was the vision Susan (Dix Lyons) projected of an environmentally sustainable medical clinic that would be more than just a clinic but would, in addition, become a magnet to the community and a place where very poor people would be welcomed and helped in a number of ways, beginning with high quality medical care. Secondly, I was reassured by the range and quality of other people involved in the project and their commitment to its success.

Q: Last October, you traveled to Nicaragua for the first annual meeting of the board. What about your experience during that trip and visiting the department of Boaco, where the clinic prototype will be located, had the biggest impact on you?

I was positively impressed by support for the project by nationally prominent people in Nicaragua and locally prominent people in Boaco, and by the appalling state of the medical care currently available to poor people in that area.

Q: You know, a lot of people say, "Why Nicaragua? Why not help people here?" How do you respond to that? What does it mean to you?

People who are considered poor here would be considered well to do by most of the people in and around Boaco. And, the cost of providing medical and other services to the poor there is small compared to the cost of providing similar services here.

Q: But you talk about building "a global prototype." What does that mean and why Nicaragua?

Nicaragua is a natural place for us to begin our work as many of us have been involved in other projects there and, as a result, have some familiarity with the area and have developed useful personal relationships there.

Q: As an initial contributor to Clínica Verde and an economist with national and international financial experience, how do you see this project in terms of an investment? What’s your social forecast?

A: People who invest in Clínica Verde are doing so to save lives and enrich the lives of others who are far, far less fortunate than themselves. However, we and they can be reassured that investments in education and health are among the most productive investments possible for lifting persons and nations out of poverty.