Ascension Global Mission in Guatemala: Shifting the Paradigm for More Effective Giving

Globalization — the increased interconnectedness and interdependence of peoples and countries — has had a significant impact on international development over the past few decades. The condition of impoverished people in the developing world has become more visible, which, coupled with greater opportunities to contribute, has fueled more helping hands and financial investment in the global development arena. Over just the last 15 years, official development aid has increased by more than 80 percent, totaling nearly $150 billion in 2015.(1) U.S. private giving in the international sector has grown substantially in the last decade, from $8.4 billion in 2000 to $19.1 billion in 2012.(2)