Cool Things My Friends Do: Josh DeFord - The Global Human Progress Foundation

Each Friday on this blog I enjoy highlighting some of the cool things my friends do in their work and personal lives.  


My friend Josh DeFord cares. In 2009 he helped found the Global Human Progress Foundation with his friend Anaclet Barega. Anaclet had grown up in DR Congo and moved his family to Austin, Texas in 2006 where he met Josh.

After working together for a couple of years Anaclet and Joshua developed a lasting friendship. Joshua began learning about the immense suffering Anaclet's friends and neighbors were forced to endure in Africa. Anaclet suggested to Joshua that they start an organization to build schools and help address areas of suffering in DR Congo.

This was the birth of the Global Human Progress Foundation, a 501 (C) 3.

In the spring of 2012 Josh and Anaclet took a trip to Africa to visit the two schools in DR Congo they have helped support.  The story of their adventure through the war torn region is like a movie.  To hear Josh recount the two weeks in Africa is an amazing story in human suffering and endurance.  His photos, videos and first hand accounts of the lives of the people in this part of the world is unlike anything most Americans will ever encounter.

Anaclet did not return to Austin.  He became ill and died while in his native land, leaving behind a wife and three children in Austin.

Josh is heart broken over the loss of his friend, but he is not letting this tragedy sideline his desire to help those in need.  He is looking to share his story and raise money to fund the two schools the foundation already supports, and to possibly start a third school.

If your organization in Austin, Texas is looking for a speaker.... Contact Josh at joshua (at) globalhumanprogress.org.  His recounting of the trip to Africa will leave your audience in awe of the conditions of those living in this part of the world.  If you are seeking a way to make an impact... Contact Josh at joshua (at) globalhumanprogress.org.  The organization is small, but it has a direct impact on the lives of kids who when not in school are forced into the mineral mines.   

To help Anaclet's family in Austin, you can find more information on this Facebook Page:   https://www.facebook.com/AnacletWisoba

Have A Great Day.

thom singer