MIAMI - (Dec. 17, 2014) - On the heels of President Barack Obama's Cuba policy

announcement, Roots of Hope applauds the actions taken to empower the Cuban people. We hope these monumental steps will contribute to a more full realization of the rights and freedoms of the Cuban people and create tangible avenues for their economic, political, and social engagement.

Roots of Hope believes in the power of technology, entrepreneurship, and purposeful travel to provide youth in Cuba with the tools and skills they need to better author their own futures. Our programmatic efforts have hinged on these pillars, guided by the belief that ordinary Cubans deserve the ability to connect with each other, communicate with the outside world, turn their ideas into fruition, and fulfill their freedoms of expression and association. 

Today's announcement promotes an increase in the living standards, connectivity, and autonomy of Cuba's citizens, but more importantly a hopeful new beginning for our brothers and sisters on the island. Substantial work remains to be done on all sides and on the ground, but we welcome the opportunity to do it, together.