Planned Parenthood of the Great Northwest (PPGNW) works in partnership with nonprofits and nongovernmental organizations to support programs in developing countries that respond to a need and positively impact the lives of vulnerable women and families. PPGNW understands our global connectedness and wants to be a part of developing countries’ reproductive health solutions. Furthermore, PPGNW recognizes it can learn from developing country partners and programs. PPGNW received the 2009 Affiliate Excellence Award from Planned Parenthood Federation of America for its international efforts, specifically for building and supporting Suzanne’s Shelter in Nepal. PPGNW is in a leadership position to set the pace for other affiliates in international endeavors.
International projects of PPGNW are supported by grants from Suzanne’s International Program, which was established in 2005 through a generous gift from the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation. Suzanne’s International Program honors the legacy of Suzanne Cluett, long-time Planned Parenthood supporter and advocate for women’s reproductive health and rights. The program reflects the values of her life’s work, which are to:
• Assure access to family planning among underserved families;
• Create social and economic opportunity for women;
• Empower women to speak and act with confidence and
take control of their lives;
• Enhance the education of women and children.
“We see this endowment fostering the kind of exchange of knowledge, resources, and understanding between peoples to which Suzanne’s life has been a tribute.”
- Bill Gates Sr.
Currently PPGNW is supporting projects in Cameroon, Lao PDR, and Nepal, as these countries have high rates of maternal and infant mortality and limited clinical and educational resources for women and youth. Working with PPGNW, partnering organizations are discovering innovative and relevant solutions to reproductive health problems. Click on the left hand navigation to learn more about each project.
