Socioeconomic Survey at Siete de Abril

The number one mistake non-profit organizations make is failing to listen closely to the people they are trying to help. This is something SHH is trying to change. Over the course of two weeks in July 2007, SHH completed a socioeconomic survey of seventy-one families at the impoverished village of Siete de Abril. The goal was to gain a better understanding of the economic and social challenges that these individuals face on a day-to-day basis. The survey has resulted in more than 1,200 pages of information on topics such as village education, employment, skills, income, health, and safety. More importantly, SHH now knows more than ever about what village members think about their current circumstances and how they feel our organization might be able to help. For example, regarding health questions, the survey found that: 70 percent do not have access to all necessary medications, 25 percent of villagers do not receive dental attention, and the average age of first pregnancy is under 18 years of age. A full report of this survey's findings will be posted on our website soon.