For this edition of our Charity Spotlight, we want to focus on Austin-based non-profit Rainforest Partnership. We recently got in touch with Executive Director Niyanta Spelman on the organization’s vision and mission. They strive to reduce deforestation, and work with partner rainforest communities and organizations in Latin America in creating sustainable economic development alternatives.

By working with partnering communities, NGOs, and government organizations in countries such as Peru, and Ecuador, the organization is working towards protecting against climate change, as deforestation is highly linked to almost a fifth of global annual carbon emissions. For instance, their work in Peru was to provide the local community with a long-term management plan for sustainable harvesting of palm fiber growing in the community’s forest, and thus reduce economic activities that would infringe on rainforests.

As a means of connecting people, and raising awareness about the environment, they recently held their first annual Films for the Forest Challenge and event. The different categories in the festival include Best Public Service Announcement, Best Documentary, and Best Narrative/Experimental. Filmmakers submitted films from all over the world, and the event took place on May 13 at Hot Mama’s Expresso. Judges included Richard Linklater, Lisa McWilliams, Michel Scott, and Evan Smith. Be sure to check out the winning films!

“The festival was a way for us to get people thinking about these important environmental issues, and part of our mission to link people to people…”

- Niyanta Spelman, Executive Director of Rainforest Partnership

Rainforest Partnership was started in December 2007. Although based in Austin, TX, their mission encompasses a global cause. They’re working to ensure the longevity of the rainforest, work with communities in Latin America to create long-term sustainable solutions, and prevent against climate change for generations to come.