International Women's Day: Equal Opportunities for Women, Progress for All

WASHINGTON, March 8 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- ACDI/VOCA released the following statement from its president, Carl Leonard, in observance of International Women's Day.

"ACDI/VOCA works to empower people -- women and men -- to succeed in the global economy.  And we know from our 45-plus years of experience that women are essential to achieving sustainable economic development.

"In many emerging markets, women work in small and less-formal trades like growing and selling vegetables in local markets, weaving carpets or sewing clothes -- trades that represent a significant opportunity for economic growth.  With access to skills, training, financing, technologies and markets, women are creating the businesses -- small, medium and global -- that fuel national economic growth.

"This International Women's Day, we join our many friends, partners and donors in calling attention to the crucial role women have in fighting hunger and poverty.

"The proof is in the results: When you give women equal opportunities to succeed, entire families, communities and nations thrive."

ABOUT ACDI/VOCA

ACDI/VOCA strives to promote positive economic and social change worldwide by promoting economic opportunities for cooperatives, enterprises and communities through the innovative application of sound business practices. Its more than 45 years of service are distinguished by commitment to its overseas beneficiaries, wise stewardship of development resources and a knowledgeable, experienced, diverse and effective team.

SOURCE ACDI/VOCA