Nourish International – Austin Chapter at the University of Texas is an organization dedicated to eradicating poverty by engaging students and empowering communities. Every year we raise money through student-run ventures (such as Hunger Lunches, Battle of the Bands, etc.) for an international summer project involving sustainable development.

There are 1,300 people in the Mushuk Llacta de Chipaota tribe depending on unsustainable rates of Piassaba fiber harvests for crafts from the rainforest. They face over 50% malnutrition in the community and travel long distances to find the Piassaba tree because of deforestation. The problem has grown to the extent of encroachment upon national preserves. This summer our chapter, in conjunction with Rainforest Partnership, will travel to Chipaota, Peru to provide the Kichwa artisans with workshops and training to start an environmentally friendly handicrafts business while preserving the indigenous culture. In addition, a plant nursery will be built to supply the villagers with the necessary Piassaba fibers without the harmful effects of deforestation.