The "Campos de Esperanza" (Fields of Hope) initiative is a planned extension of a cooperative agreement by the U.S. Department of Labor's Bureau of International Labor Affairs (ILAB). Currently, this Notice of Intent (NOI) serves as a public announcement of ILAB’s decision to continue the project with World Vision as the sole implementing partner. This cooperative agreement is not open for applications, as ILAB has identified World Vision’s unique qualifications and existing involvement as crucial to the project's success. Under federal authority DLMS 2-836 G.3, which allows for single-source awards when no viable alternative provider exists, this project extension intends to further progress made in combating exploitative labor practices.

Campos de Esperanza’s primary mission is to address child labor, improve working conditions, and support educational opportunities in agricultural communities where vulnerable populations are at a high risk of exploitation. By extending this program, ILAB aims to deepen the project’s impact on labor rights, strengthen community resources, and reduce factors contributing to labor violations, particularly in rural settings where socio-economic challenges are pronounced. Through its work, World Vision has developed specialized capacities and networks in these communities, which are essential for achieving sustainable labor improvements.

The project is set to receive up to $11 million in total funding for this extended period, allocated through a cooperative agreement that allows ILAB to actively collaborate with World Vision in oversight, implementation, and reporting. This funding supports a range of activities from educational outreach and skill development programs to improvements in workplace conditions and community awareness initiatives. It is designed to build resilience within these communities, enabling individuals and families to secure safer, more equitable employment opportunities.

ILAB’s decision to extend this project highlights the progress achieved thus far and the need for continued intervention to solidify gains in labor rights and child welfare. The project also aims to reinforce the socio-economic structures that can prevent child labor and exploitation from recurring, focusing on long-term, systemic changes through policy support and community-driven initiatives.

Currently, there is no specific date for the start or award of this project extension, though it is forecasted for the fiscal year 2024. Interested parties should note that this announcement is strictly informational and does not imply further funding opportunities. Organizations interested in similar initiatives or partnerships are encouraged to monitor ILAB’s future funding notices for potential opportunities aligned with labor rights and anti-exploitation efforts.

For any inquiries related to the Campos de Esperanza project, Carol Bartholomew of ILAB can be reached at (202) 693-2937 or via email at bartholomew.carol.e@dol.gov.