LEAD is a unit of SIL International, based in Asia. SIL is a faith-based nonprofit organization that works alongside ethnolinguistic communities as they build capacity for sustainable development of their languages to meet their goals.

LEAD helps under-served ethnolinguistic groups experience increased access to development opportunities, greater freedom of expression of their languages and cultures, and more peaceful relations with others.

We draw inspiration from the example of Jesus of Nazareth, who bridged social divides in his outreach to the poor and vulnerable. Our development ethos reflects the following core values:

• Community Ownership: We believe that communities have the right and ability to set their own development goals and will therefore act in ways that honor the unique resources and ideas that they bring to that endeavor.

• Diversity: We value the uniqueness of each ethnolinguistic community, and their identity evidenced by their languages and culture as something to be treasured as part of God's creation.

• Holistic Approach: We demonstrate care and concern for ethnolinguistic communities, tangibly bearing witness to God’s truth and His love.

• Partnerships: We work in ways that support positive relationships between and within ethnolinguistic communities, development partners and governments.

• Integrity: We act with integrity, so that what we say and do is consistent with our faith and values.