Building capacity for the future
At the heart of any successful organization are the passionate individuals driving its mission forward. Y Care International, a renowned international development organization, is no exception. Today, we shine a spotlight on Richard Hatfield, the Head of Partner Support & Development at Y Care International. Richard’s dedication to his role, his deep understanding of the organization’s mission, and his passion for youth empowerment make him an integral part of the Y Care family and wider partner network.

Richard’s role at Y Care International is to encourage and support the organization’s partners as they grow and become stronger. In this position, he plays a crucial role in facilitating the growth of local initiatives and community development projects.
Local ownership and leadership
What sets Y Care International apart is its commitment to locally-led solutions and development. Richard was drawn to the organization because it truly “walks the talk” in this regard. By focusing on empowering communities and recognizing their ownership of development projects, Y Care is making a meaningful difference in the lives of youth worldwide.
Richard describes Y Care International as “Brave, True, a pillar in a big family.” These words encapsulate the organization’s approach to working with communities in tackling global issues, its commitment to genuine and lasting change, and its sense of unity and community.
In the coming year, Richard is most excited about seeing Y Care International’s partners grow. This growth means that more young people will have the support they need to build a better future, which is at the core of Y Care’s mission.
What role do I play?
According to Richard, a Y Care International supporter is someone who not only recognizes the need for youth to be the drivers of the future but also takes practical action to empower them materially. Supporters like you are the backbone of Y Care’s efforts to create lasting change.
Richard advocates for a significant shift in how people perceive the international development sector. He believes that those on the ground should be given ownership of the projects that others support. This recognition of the unique perspective and leadership of local communities is essential for creating sustainable and impactful change with local ownership, which is a cornerstone of Y Care International’s approach.
In conclusion, Richard’s role at Y Care International and his perspective on the international development sector emphasize the importance of empowering local communities and youth for lasting change. His dedication and passion for making the world a better place through practical action and support are an inspiration to all who share the same vision. Through his work across our global network of partners and equipping them with resilience for the future, Richard is making a significant and lasting difference in the lives of young people, one partnership at a time.