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San Fernando Visit: 'An Experience of a Lifetime' |
By Jill Fink, Co-Owner of Mugshots CoffeeHouse & Cafe, Philadelphia
 I find myself struggling to find words that would adequately describe the impact this trip has had on me. This was an experience of a lifetime, a trip that took me to places, both geographically and emotionally, that I never would have anticipated. Prior to my departure, I didn't give a tremendous amount of thought to how we would be received, or even how significant this visit would be for our hosts. To have been welcomed with such enthusiasm, warmth and kindness; to have been invited to share in their struggles, to labor alongside them, and to break bread (or yucca as the case may be) in their kitchens - it continues to touch me deeply and profoundly.
I am thankful to have had the opportunity to share with the producers in San Fernando how much our customers here in Philadelphia enjoy the coffee they so lovingly and painstakingly grow for us. In making the personal connections that I have, I hope to take these stories and make them personal and meaningful for both my staff members and our customers. I want my staff to continue to take great pride when preparing the coffee they serve, realizing that to do anything otherwise, not only shortchanges our customers, but does a tremendous disservice to the farmers who have cultivated and cared for their crops for many years.
I'd like for my customers to understand that in coming to Mugshots because they appreciate the quality of the coffee, they have also made a commitment to supporting Fair Trade. I would like to convey how meaningful this is in the lives of the farmers who produce the coffee ... that a Fair Trade price means that San Fernando is a community with both an elementary and secondary school; that they are a community that now has a health clinic staffed by not just a nurse, but a physician as well; and that they are in the process of building a church.
I have come away from this trip with a deeper appreciation and respect for the co-operative process and the benefits it brings to communities. From Cooperativa San Fernando, to COCLA, to Equal Exchange, to Independents Coffee Cooperative, there is not one step in this process that is not impacted by the spirit of co-operation and a desire to create better lives for individuals through the collective elevation of all. How inspiring it is to be a small part of a shared will and determination to create change so that all can prosper.
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