Our Community     We work with native communities composed of small farmers. Some have cultivated cocoa for decades while others more recently, but all share a common desire to forge ahead with their families thanks to this crop and the work we share with them. One important benefit we provide farmers is technical training, which has allowed them to improve crop yield, as well as the quality of the bean during fermentation. In this way they may obtain sustainable earnings for their labor. Organic and Fair Choice certifications of farms have also been important for farmers, since there is a growing awareness of environmental conservation. With these certifications, not only can they obtain better earnings, but it also assures them that they are taking care of their land, their source of income, and that this brings a fair wage for their work. We are building long-term relationships, which create security and stability. Also, producing chocolate in the same region where our farmers are located, allows them to see the fruit of their labor: Orquidea Chocolates. The pride they feel when they see the excellent quality of the finished product, and knowing that these may reach such far away places from their communities, instills pride and enthusiasm and a desire to do better every day. Many families have developed with this crop, and many children have grown along side the cocoa trees. Many stories of joy have been forged with each chocolate bar that we produce, which is why we can say that behind each bar, there is a story of joy. Here are just a few: QUINO PUTPAÑA MARIOL OJANASTA BORIS OJANASTA SINARAHUA