The changes will probable come, but it will be a slow process. They are having hard times, but most seem to be handling the situation quite well. The long-term economic fortunes of the people Griffin worked with, along with thousands of Russian businesses and farms, will only be certain if Russians gain the knowledge and skills to function in a rapidly changing global economy. Fortunately, Americans like Griffin are willing to give their time, effort and experience to help Russian businesses succeed. Over the last five years, more than 1,000 Winrock volunteers have worked on 2 to 6 week assignments that address business development, farming, food processing, and marketing.
Volunteers donate their time and expertise.
Griffin volunteered through the Consulting Services to Russian Entrepreneurs Program, which is funded by the U.S. Agency for International Development. Winrock International is a private, nonprofit organization that works around the world to increase agricultural productivity and rural employment while protecting the environment. Winrock staff implement projects in 40 countries, including the United States, Asia, Africa, the Middle East, Latin America, Eastern Europe, and the New Independent States of the former Soviet Union. Winrock's activities are funded by grants, contracts, and contributions from public and private sources.