Producer Profiles

RAOS - Cooperativa Mixta Agricultores Orgánicos de la Sierra

The Cooperativa Regional de Agricultores Orgánicos de la Sierra (RAOS) was formed in 1997 by a group of small farmers. They formed RAOS in response to the closing of the cooperative CARMOL that marketed conventional coffee produced in the area. After the closure, a large number of “coyotes,” or intermediaries, began to work in the area – prices dropped and there was no support from the government for coffee farming families.

A small group of farmers began training themselves and each other on growing coffee using non conventional techniques. This small group, now growing coffee organically was initially overlooked by others in the area. But they soon realized the great benefit non conventional techniques brought. Since 1997, the RAOS Cooperative has become an economic development model in the region of Marcala, Honduras. With over 200 members and growing, RAOS is considered the country’s pioneers of organic coffee. They play an important role in their communities, providing essential services through Fair Trade Premiums.
 

Quotable

“

Before becoming involved with Cooperativa RAOS, I was in a very difficult position. I was a conventional coffee producer when the prices of coffee plummeted. The agricultural inputs were so expensive we couldn’t maintain our farms. The local bank wanted to take my land because the previous cooperative COMARCA, where I had been a member, folded and left me indebted. Because I was affiliated with the cooperative they wanted to take my land.

Later, with a great deal of debt, I joined RAOS. With the trainings, exchanges with other farmers and experiences with organizations with organic and Fair Trade production, my mind and my life changed. I have been with the organization for 11 years and I feel very fortunate for this.

For me, Fair Trade is a system that strengthened the family economy and makes us all more conscious of the natural resources we have around us. I depend on what I do with my farm. Through my work, I generate income for my family and even grow our own food, which is healthy and safe—different from what one purchases in stores. Those products can have serious consequences, both mental and physical.

For us, as small farmers, Fair Trade has been one of the principal supports -- bringing us a sustainable income, helping us protect the environment and providing us with additional services for our families.  ”

Ubaldo Gonzalez
“

I think Fair Trade is a wonderful system that has united small producers from different regions, locally and internationally. Before, each person was stuck in their place doing what they considered correct and enduring different crisis. Fair Trade has opened our eyes. It has united us and this is good because we are able to exchange our experiences. This makes us stronger each day and helps us face the challenges the globalized economy poses us.  ”

Gladis Marleny Chavez Cubas, Treasurer
“

Cooperativa RAOS has grown thanks to Fair Trade –participation in the market has increased and this helps us become financially stable. Access to the Fair Trade market and organic production process has become a life changing experience – one the men and women of RAOS are committed to for life. It has strengthened our knowledge, training and farming practices and maximized the benefits for members. The social premium and the higher price for our better quality coffee has enabled us to invest in loan programs, educational programs, environmental protection programs, technical assistance, gender equality programs and agroturism initiatives.  ”

Gladis Marleny Chavez Cubas, Treasurer of Raos

Programs

Education Program

Cooperativa RAOS invested 20 percent of their Fair Trade premium one year in education programs. They collaborated with a local radio station and education organization to educate members on Fair Trade standards and give young people the opportunity to access education, especially those too far from a school. Students can take classes through the radio, much like a distance learning program.

Infrastructure Investment

Cooperativa RAOS has invested 20 percent of their Fair Trade premium in improving their infrastructure. They purchased a wet mill and a dry mill to improve the quality and consistency of their coffee.

Education Program

Cooperativa RAOS invested 20 percent of their Fair Trade premium in education programs. They collaborated with a local radio station and education organization to educate members on Fair Trade standards and give young people the opportunity to access education, especially those too far from a school. Students can take classes through the radio, much like a distance learning program.