5 reasons we’re hopeful for the future on USAID’s 55th anniversary - click to read

"On November 3, 1961, President Kennedy officially established the United States Agency for International Development. And since then, the men and women of USAID have built a legacy worthy of President Kennedy's vision and the shared values of the American people.

As we look back over the last 55 years, the world has come a long way. We have seen extreme poverty cut by more than half, the elimination of deadly and debilitating diseases, declining rates of mortality and malnutrition, more children enrolling in school, and more families with safe drinking water. USAID has been at the forefront of this progress, proving time and time again that, together, we can tackle tremendous global challenges.

That's why today, as USAID marks 55 years, I'm more hopeful than ever for the future, despite the long list of challenges we face. In the years ahead USAID will continue to work toward a better world, one where every man, woman, and child can enjoy the dignity that comes with development and the pride that comes with progress."