Letter from the Executive Director
As Central Asia Institute ’ s 14th edition of Journey of Hope goes to press ,
the world is facing an uncertain time . The deadly coronavirus and its toll on human life and the economy continue to cast a pall over the future . Whether it ’ s partisan politics in the United States or faltering negotiations for peace in Afghanistan , the world seems unable to come together to resolve our most pressing challenges .
But like many of you , we find cause for hope amid the crisis . In this issue , you ’ ll find inspiring examples of how a deadly pandemic that drove us apart has , at the same time , brought us closer together . For me , perhaps the best example of human hope and transcendence in the face of calamity has been dedicated donors like you . Long-time CAI donor Anthony Tuemler , featured in this edition , summed it up best : “ We ’ re being given the option to crawl into a corner and hide , or to continue to participate and try to make change .”
In this issue , you ’ ll read about the unique challenges and risks COVID-19 presented for remote , impoverished people in Central Asia . But you ’ ll also learn how the pandemic enabled CAI and its partners to devise innovative strategies leading to improved health and education for the region ’ s population . We feel hopeful that these innovations will not only create new opportunities for the children and communities we serve , but also take root and flourish long after the crisis is over .
Thank you , Anthony , and all of CAI ’ s dedicated friends who have stood by us despite the uncertainty and challenges in your own lives . Your steadfast support and compassion allow us , as Anthony put it , to be “ the window letting you see the world outside ,” and to assure a young Afghan girl whom you ’ ve never met that “ there are people throughout the world who want her to succeed .”
Wishing you peace and good health .
Gratefully ,
Alice R . Thomas
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