About us
our history
In September 1998, Hurricane George severely impacted plantations in the eastern and central regions of our island. As a result, the company Nazario Rizek C. por A., now Rizek Cacao, S.A.S., launched the Cocoa Plantation Advisory, Recovery, and Organic Management Program (PAROCA) in 2001 to assist producers affected by the hurricane. The program provided planting materials for the renovation and recovery of cocoa plantations, free technical assistance, and support to restore production. Additionally, a general plan was implemented to improve cocoa quality during the post-harvest stage, as well as to manage and certify plantations as organic.
Recognizing the potential to further improve the quality of life for producers associated with Rizek, the company decided to transform PAROCA into a long-term program. As a result, on June 23, 2004, the “FUNDACIÓN PARA LA ASISTENCIA SOCIAL, RECUPERACIÓN Y MANEJO ORGÁNICO DE PLANTACIONES CACAOTERAS, INCORPORADA – FUPAROCA, Inc.” was established. It was officially approved by the President of the Republic, Leonel Fernández, through Decree No. 1480-04 on December 7, 2004.
FUPAROCA is the first nonprofit foundation and the social arm of Rizek Cacao, S.A.S., providing technical support to cocoa producers and training them in the implementation of organic, sustainable, socially responsible, and fair trade practices at no cost to them.
We have social policies and procedures aimed at protecting vulnerable producers and collaborators. These include regulations on gender equality, child labor, forced labor, discrimination, violence, and harassment in all its forms. Currently, we maintain various strategic partnerships with major international chocolate companies to contribute to FUPAROCA’s mission and improve the living conditions of cocoa producers. This includes making direct investments in farms and their communities.
Our Mission
Increase producers’ income by enhancing plantation productivity, diversifying income sources, and achieving better prices through the marketing of certified products.
Our Vision
To be a leading entity in training, guiding, and supervising affiliated producers in applying good agricultural practices, respecting the environment, and improving the socioeconomic conditions of cocoa-producing communities.
Our Values
Trust
At FUPAROCA, we base our work on mutual trust with our cocoa producers, fostering honest and transparent relationships that strengthen our community.
Transparency
We operate with complete transparency, sharing clear and accurate information about our activities and results.
Participation
We value the active participation of all members of the cocoa-producing community, fostering collaboration and teamwork to achieve our common goals.
Comunication
We maintain open and constant communication with our producers and partners, ensuring that their needs and concerns are heard and addressed.
Ethic
We are guided by high ethical standards, respecting the law and promoting fair and responsible practices in all our operations.
Commitment
We are dedicated to improving the living conditions of our producers and communities by providing ongoing support and the necessary resources for their prosperity.
Our Team
FUPAROCA, Inc. is an organization formed by small cocoa producers, operating through a membership structure and managed by the General Assembly of Members, which brings together representatives from the main cocoa-growing regions of the country. Its leadership is entrusted to the Board of Directors, composed of a President, First and Second Vice Presidents, Treasurer, Secretary, and four board members.
Administrative Manager
Responsible for approving financial operations related to the Socio-Environmental Management Plan, as well as supervising the implementation of social projects in the communities.
Compliance and Certifications Manager
Ensures compliance with organic, social, and environmental standards, updating and evaluating the necessary processes for certifications.
Technical Manager
Plans and supervises the activities of the Socio-Environmental Management Plan, managing risks and ensuring compliance with quality standards.
Training Manager
Leads training programs to strengthen the skills of the team, collaborators, and producers affiliated with the foundation.