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We take our name from the Roman Goddess of Wealth and Abundance, especially from the earth's resources. The latin word opis is translated as "plenty" and unsurprisingly, it is related to the latin word opus. We have adopted this name as it captures several key points of our model: stewardship of the Earth's resources, creation of sustainable economies, and the diffusion of ownership-whether of home, farm or, business-among those who haven't had such opportunity.
"Abundance" by Peter Paul Rubens showing Opis with a horn of plenty.
The name and image of Opis conveys our goal of harnessing wealth on behalf of commonwealth, whether global, national, or local.
Generally speaking we do not come from a non-profit background. Our work backgrounds has been in the construction, energy, and financial sectors. Through lifetimes of working and traveling the globe we've seen the unrealized and wasted potential of both human and natural resources and we've resolved to do something about it by bring our problem-solving, results driven approach to development.
Opis Foundation and its members have extensive contacts in North and South America as well as countries in West Africa. At the present moment Opis is working on several initiatives based in Sierra Leone including promotion of tourism, aquaculture and biodiesel. For more info go to our page on Sierra Leone
Opis believes starting enterprises that will create jobs, which will engender the growth of skills, which will enable the creation of further enterprises. This process can be enhanced through adult integral education designed to accompany and build on work experience.
Corruption, both petty and grand, are facts of life in many developing countries. OPIS foundation will maintain the highest standards of conduct and as such will never allow our funds to go for graft or "gifts." OPIS will frequently work in partnership with local governments but we will always maintain our independence and reserve the right to withdraw from any such enterprise if our partner cannot accept these standards.