Edward Berthold V 7/4/21 Edward Berthold V 7/4/21

The Idea Becomes a Draft

Calvin Dauner and Edward Berthold, the Vice President, both complete the first draft of the logo, mission, vision, and values. Growing the Grassroots (GTGR) has a central focus now, which is providing comprehensive, hands-on education to initiate sustainable development from the grassroots level.

Edward Berthold V 5/4/21 Edward Berthold V 5/4/21

5x The Local Average

On May 4th, Calvin and employees at the RHCI harvest groundnuts. With Norman Borlaug’s techniques, they yield 1284 kg/acre, which is ~5x the local average of 250-300 kg/acre. He leaves Sierra Leone on May 16th, knowing that these techniques have proved highly effective, with more improvements to come.

Edward Berthold V 3/23/21 Edward Berthold V 3/23/21

The Start of Agriculture Education

On March 23rd, Calvin runs his first agriculture class for youth with his agriculture packet.

Edward Berthold V 3/6/21 Edward Berthold V 3/6/21

Hello Sembehun Tabema

On March 6th, Calvin visits Sembehun Tabema, the most remote village he has ever been to. The community speaks of the false promises and crippling hardships they faced, leading to hope being lost. Calvin notes everything.

Edward Berthold V 12/9/20 Edward Berthold V 12/9/20

Calvin Arrives

Calvin Dauner, the President, arrives in Sierra Leone to further the agriculture program at the Rural Healthcare Initiative (RHCI). Simultaneously, he aims to connect with community members in Tikonko along with surrounding villages to truly understand their needs.

Edward Berthold V 6/5/19 Edward Berthold V 6/5/19

The 2-Year Mission Comes to an End

Jesse leaves Sierra Leone inspired by everyone he met, forever holding a special place in his heart. His two years in Sierra Leone taught him about the culture, history, and how to speak Krio, a prevalent language in Salone.

Edward Berthold V 7/5/17 Edward Berthold V 7/5/17

Jesse Arrives

Jesse Pyrah, the President of Finance, arrives for his mission in Sierra Leone ready to learn.