Lauren Fretz

HOPE International

Based in Lancaster, PA, HOPE International (HOPE) is a Christian faith-based, 501(c)(3) non-profit organization investing in the dreams of families in the world's underserved communities as we proclaim and live the Gospel. Why Christ-centered financial services? We believe families in poverty have the God-given talents and skills to provide for their families. What they don't have is a lump sum of money to invest in their potential—by paying school fees, saving for the future, or investing in businesses. Two billion people around the world do not have access to financial services. 91 percent of adults in high-income countries have an account compared to just 28 percent in low-income countries. We desire to see men and women around the world find their soul's satisfaction in Christ and become dignified, hope-filled providers in their families and communities. In obedience to Christ's command to love our neighbor and make disciples of all nations, HOPE International provides discipleship opportunities, biblically based training, a safe place to save, and loans. We offer these services through two models: 1. Savings groups are groups of individuals who save their money together in partnership with the local church. As they build a secure sum of money, members often take out loans from their group to pay for household expenses or invest in businesses. 2. Microfinance institutions are banks designed to serve entrepreneurs in poverty by providing loans, a safe place to save, and other financial services to help men and women invest in their businesses and provide for their families. We have a heart for underserved areas. In some cases, we start a HOPE-managed program; in others, we partner with an existing Christ-centered ministry. Together, the HOPE network consists of microfinance institutions and savings group programs working throughout Africa, Asia, Eastern Europe, and Latin America. www.hopeinternational.org