Time to celebrate
Footsteps to Health began as a small newsletter for healthworkers in English in 1986. Twelve years ago, when circulation was about 1,000 copies, the name was changed to Footsteps, the focus broadened and other translations began to be introduced. From those small beginnings the newsletter has grown and now reaches 45,000 readers in seven official languages (and many more unofficial translations) with several staff to help maintain the work.
But that growth might still mean very little unless we knew that Footsteps was having a positive impact and meeting our objectives.
Footsteps aims to provide encouragement, inspiration and practical ideas for health and development workers around the world. Sharing useful information empowers readers to take action to improve people’s lives. Huge topics like biodiversity, disability or traditional medicines are very hard to cover in just a few pages, but condensing complicated subjects into short, practical articles is at the heart of Footsteps’ success. We use straightforward language that makes it easier for people to translate into local languages and share. We are amazed by the wonderful responses we continue to get from readers around the world showing their appreciation. But encouraging letters are not enough. A survey was recently carried out with a random sample of readers, and their initial views are shared in this issue. A thorough evaluation of Footsteps is also in progress. The points raised from both will guide us in compiling future issues.
Reaching 50 issues is surely an opportunity to celebrate! We hope that the images and words from Micah 6 will provide challenge and encouragement to our readers as we celebrate together this anniversary of our work in sharing information around the world.
This issue of Footsteps raises the importance of understanding the effect of what we do (or fail to do). All of us are responsible before God to use our gifts and abilities wisely and for the benefit of others. We hope this issue will help you to take time to stop and reflect on your actions and how you might increase the impact of what you do.
Isabel Carter