International aid has been in the spotlight this month as heads of state of G8 countries debate how much aid should be channeled to Africa to combat poverty. The fact that it is the wealthy nations who are holding this debate highlights the power dynamic inherent in foreign aid: those who have the money, have the power. Similarly, most non-governmental organizations and private funders who support economic development initiatives throughout the world set their grantmaking strategies internally, often with limited input from those they aim to support.

However, in recent years, there has been a growing movement on the part of individual funders, and grantmaking organizations in the global North to incorporate a more democratic approach to their work. This effort has been complemented by the establishment of grassroots movements, self-help groups, community-based organizations and collectives in the global South, which have enabled communities to participate in their own process of development. Increasing global connections have also provided exciting opportunities for organizations around the world to form alliances and work together to address the pressing issues of extreme poverty.

For over 20 years, International Development Exchange (IDEX) has supported community-based development initiatives in Asia, Africa and Latin America. Over the years, IDEX has developed a unique approach: the democratic partnership. This approach recognizes the value of indigenous community knowledge. It affirms the central role of their experiences and insights in setting development priorities. Just as important as the kinds of organizations that receive aid are the decisions about how the money is spent. Many donor agencies - even those willing to fund local community groups - have a narrow agenda: they only want to support social enterpreneurship, or rainforest conservation, or childhood vaccines. By contrast, the democratic partnership model takes into account the diversity of circumstances that local communities face, and allows local groups to determine the priorities. While this is a risky proposition, it allows for innovation that responds to local need, in a way a that donor-determined aid does not.

It is not just IDEX that is taking this approach – we are part of a growing movement of progressive international philanthropists and non-governmental organizations working towards a more equitable, effective and democratic way to combat poverty. While this approach is gaining momentum, we must ask the question: is the ideal being achieved? To answer this question, IDEX went to the grassroots communities themselves and find out whether recent efforts have produced any real changes. With the support of the Ford Foundation, IDEX conducted an internal and external review of best practices in participatory international grantmaking.

As a first step, fourteen IDEX partners had the opportunity to evaluate IDEX’s performance as a funding organization and point out where it is successful in promoting democracy and participation, and where work still needs to be done. Additionally, IDEX staff interviewed program directors at twenty-three other grantmaking organizations that use a similar democratic framework in order to gain a clearer picture on how the democratic process works in the field of international development.

IDEX presented the initial findings of the review at the 2003 conference of Grantmakers Without Borders in Tucson, Arizona in order to initiate a broader dialogue amongst international grantmakers, with the goal of creating a set of shared principles for democratic grantmaking. A few participants pointed to the need for the grantmakers to explore not only their own attitudes towards the grantees but required greater openness to engage in honest dialogue with them. Others pointed out that grantmakers must also cultivate the awareness and humility to not only acknowledge their own state of privilege but also their dependency on the grantees to have their work produce actual change. Finally, the need for open communication between parties before and during the partnership seemed to be the most important.

The discussion with IDEX partners and other U.S. funders has led us to expand the principles of democratic partnership to include the following:

1. Partners should be inclusive of and responsive to the marginalized communities that their projects benefit. Grassroots organizations that are strongly rooted in their communities and responsive to their needs are likely to be effective in combating poverty.
2. Current partners participate in the selection of new partners/grantees. Since existing partners are often familiar with other local groups, they are often in the best position to know which NGOs in their region would best fit into the partnership model.
3. Funders and partners negotiate an agreement that clearly delineates individual and joint responsibility in a signed contract. There is two-way negotiation process before final partnership agreements and financial agreements are signed. This clarifies both the funder’s and the partner’s expectations
4. Both parties make long-term commitment. The funder and the community-based organization agree to maintain a funding partnership for a certain amount of time. This commitment allows the partner to focus on implementing its programs instead of on scrambling to find new funding.
5. Partners participate in key decisions and have platforms where their views are represented.To involve partners in all levels of decision-making, a range of options exist from having partners elected as a representative to the board of directors to forming advisory committees. This representation gives partners a chance to have their say in the funder organization’s direction and priorities.
6. Open, accessible channels of communication leads to mutual accountability and transparency. As a democratic model, it is inevitable that disagreements will arise. By maintaining open communication, misunderstandings can be clarified and disagreements discussed. Accountability and transparency is a way to cultivate trust and prevent corruption and power imbalances on both sides.
7. Funders facilitate opportunities for collaboration amongst partners and in coalition building activities. The partnership relationship is cultivated not just between the funder and the community-based partners, but also amongst the partners in each region. This is done through the facilitation by the funder of informational exchanges, regional meetings and discretionary grants for coalition-building purposes amongst partners and with other groups.
8. Diverse constituencies require different approaches. Funders typically determine the agenda based on their cultural priorities. An open discussion of culture, gender, race, and class allows for the work that is supported to be more useful, and beneficial to the communities involved.

Questions for discussion

• What are the constraints to funders who wish to incorporate similar models?
• What are the drawbacks to this approach?
• What difference does a democratic partnership make to communities that are combating extreme poverty?
• Are groups that are part of the partnership applying the same democratic principles to the community groups with whom they partner?

For a copy of the full report please contact info@idex.org. The report will be available for download by the end of July 2005.

Yael Falicov - Jul 19, 2005 12:16 pm (#1 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange


I'm looking forward to a lively discussion on the most effective ways to work with grassroots organizations abroad.

krisdev - Jul 19, 2005 9:01 pm (#2 Total: 23)


Dear all,

I am indeed delighted to know of such a global discussion.

I am Kris Dev from Chennai, India. I am a co-founder of the International Transparency and Accountability Network (Tr-Ac Net), a global consortium of social organiations, coming together, not-for-profit, to transform communities and society, combining the Community Centric Sustainable Development process and the Tr-Ac principles. Peter Burgess from New York is the other cofounder and we have memebers from Asia, Africa, Americas, Midlle East, etc.

I find a good fit between what we are trying to do and whay IDEX is doing. These discussions would be very useful to our members and I would direct them to these discussions.

I look forward to a very fruitful discussions here.

Kris Dev, Tr-Ac Net. http://Tr-Ac-Net.blogspot.com

simonsharp - Jul 20, 2005 12:00 am (#3 Total: 23)


We are a new joint UK and Swedish initiative (SSEBA) to facilitate business sponsorship and economic growth and development for specifically sustainble and ethical business in areas of the world requiring such support.

We would be keen to be involved in any such discussions.

simon.sharp@ethicalescape.com

Evgeny Tyrtyshny - Jul 20, 2005 3:04 am (#4 Total: 23)
http://www.atasu.org/eng/command.html

Dear All:

I am Executive Secretary of the Technical Advisory Committee of Kazakhstan Water Partnership(KWP). We welcome IDEX as a part of the movement working towards a more equitable, effective and democratic way to combat poverty. Established two years ago KWP shares the Transparency and Accountability Principles are supported by the Tr-Ac Net.

From our point of view a lack of these principles is one of the main constraints to funders who wish to incorporate similar models. Joseph E. Stiglitz, a Nobel laureate in economics and former Vice President of the World Bank has been called this phenomenon as "assymetry of economic information".

Looking forward to hear from you.

Evgeny Tyrtyshny, KWP, http://www.atasu.org/eng/waterpart.html

Attachments:

Evgeny's picture.JPG (11 KB)

krisdev (apparently) - Jul 20, 2005 5:18 am (#5 Total: 23)
via email

I am glad Mr. Evgeny Tyrtyshny has posted his views here on Kazhakstan
water Partnership.. We must extend support to such local
organizations, so that they become a role model for others.

I hope Social Edge would come forward to support Tr-Ac Net and its members.

Kris Dev, Co-Founder, Tr-Ac Net with
Peter Burgess, Tr-Ac Net, New York.

On 7/20/05, Evgeny Tyrtyshny
<social_entrepreneur_workshops@socialedge.org> wrote:
> A new message was posted by Evgeny Tyrtyshny in
>
> Social Entrepreneur Workshops --
> Kazakhstan Water Partnership
>
> To read this message or post to the discussion, please click on the
> message-title link above. No further email notifications will be sent for
> this discussion until you visit the conference and read this thread.
>
> Use the unsubscribe form to cancel your email subscription.

Marc Ross Manashil - Jul 20, 2005 9:51 pm (#6 Total: 23)
The Clarence Foundation


First off, I wanted to say hello to my colleagues Yael and Balu from IDEX. I am totally inspired and excited by the work you are doing to promote democratic approaches in the international grantmaking process! I'd love to receive any information you have on the subject, as I heard that IDEX has recently produced a report on its experiences. We're planning to co-host a traveling giving circle to Kenya that will incorporate a collaborative grant decision-making process between the participating donors and grantees, and this would be good required reading!

My best wishes with your great work!

Regards, Marc

clsr - Jul 20, 2005 10:51 pm (#7 Total: 23)


We are working for developing micro enterprise model for poorest of the poor and physically handicapped tribal youth of three economically backward districts of Madhya Pradesh of India. We wish to develop a workable model to generate gainful employment at grass root level on the basis of indepth action research. whether we can expect any colloboration with IDEX or you Thanks

Ashish clsrindia@hotmail.com akshri_bpl@yahoo.co.in

clsr - Jul 20, 2005 11:05 pm (#8 Total: 23)


Dear Yael

It really encouraging to know that you are interested to associate with grassroot level organisations We are in the process of developing integrated livelihood model to provide sustainable opportunities for the tribal youth of three economically backward districts of Madhya Pradesh, India. To strengthen our efforts, we have conducted 7 rural entrepreneurship development programmes for tribal youth in different vocational trades.Our initiative was to explore the livelihood opportunities for physically handicapped tribal youths

We will be happy to share our experiences at grass rooot level with you, if required.

Thanks & regards Ashish clsrindia@hotmail.com

Stephen Mutoro - Jul 20, 2005 11:43 pm (#9 Total: 23)

Thanks to Kris Dev of Tr-Ac Net, to which network we are members. The Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations (KARA) would be keen to participate in this discussion. As Kenya goes through her most trying moment of concluding her elusive constitutional review process, there is urgent need to have this kind of discussion domesticated. We would be keen to work with Tr-Ac Net and IDEX towards this endeavour. Best wishes,

Stephen Mutoro, CEO, KARA

(kara@accesskenya.com)

 

Balu Iyer - Jul 21, 2005 9:33 am (#10 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange

Dear All

Many thanks for your responses! It is very encouraging to see the interest in developing a two-way partnership.

Many of you who responded are outside the U.S. and interact with donors from other countries. It will be interesting to hear about the types of partnerships being formed . More importantly it will be good to hear about your experiences in developing partnerships with the communities that you work with.

We would be interested in hearing how you develop non-fiscal aspects in your partnership work. This is becoming a very relevant issue for us as we wind down fiscal work with partners.

At the end of this discussion we hope to refine the elements of democratic partnership, prepare a list of like minded groups and come up with way to carry this discussion forward. Any ideas will be most appreciated.

Balu

Yael Falicov - Jul 21, 2005 1:56 pm (#11 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange

Dear All,

I'd like to echo Balu's enthusiasm -- it is wonderful to see that many organizations around the world are defining new models of working together. It will be interesting to see if we can find a way to form an information-sharing network about these issues.

It seems that many of you -- the Kazakhstan Water Partnership and the Kenyan Alliance of Resident Associations, to name two -- have signed on to the Transparency and Accountability Principles created by Tr-Ac. I'd be interested in learning more about these principles and how they are applied to NGOs as well as funding institutions.

It's great to hear that the Clarence Foundation will be applying a collaborative model to grantmaking in Kenya. Marc, we will make sure to send you a copy of our report as soon as it is available, thanks for your interest!

Yael

expert9119 - Jul 21, 2005 9:04 pm (#12 Total: 23)

Thanks to this forum initiators. Congratualtion! My name is Andre Ahouissoussi, Eng. Agricultural Economics and Rural Sociology. I'm beninese. My dozen experience in the developement sector (poverty reduction, agribusiness program management, agriculture newsletter publication,democracy and human right promotion etc) let me understand that the kind of relationship linking donor agencies and grassroots organizations do not naturally allow some kind of democracy. We may need to think it hard. Every thing would depend on the mind openess of the persons in charge of projects implementation. When somedody is giving and another is receiving, do not expect any kind of democracy in the transaction : it is just asymetric. Whose vision, interests are going to be implemented? sometimes, the deprived people in developing countries are so deprived and out of sight he can not be easly reached. We should do not expect from him to bargain in the way assistance would be implement. Yet most of Intermediary NGOs, who can contact and deal with the donors, finally work for their organization first, most the time? Can we expect to go beyond the theoretical  Democratic Approach in such International Partnerships?

I lately went in association with some friends who share the same idea ie the only person who can bargain in International Partnerships is somebody not hungry.  But even some highly educated people are hungry in african continent even though they appear well dressed. Local government look closer they do not free from hunger, because, once they're free, they can think further, they can advocate better, they can even say NO. That's my thought about politics in most of the developing countries. Governements and their administration don't really care about their people, so some problems obviously simple for which the country even have even dozen of time the means, that touch majority of citizens are not cared and solve. Hence, according to our philosophy and strategic framework, educated and volunteers should locally empower their citizen aware of their own strengh, who are willing to work according to the basics of Dr Yunus.

If any Democratic Approach is going to prevail in international Partnerships, beneficiaries need to be empowered by their own "children" some way, which children could bargain for democracy principle in such pertnership. Because even though some international donor are willing to play democratically in such partnership, natural complex of beneficiaries will see them as the "sevior" coming for their salvage. Hence the main approach to democratize the relationship appear to me as to facilitate trade, to empower local people to produce and sell good quality merchandizes, according to their best skills and asset, even detrimentally of local governement. But to what extent would that be possible? Citizens would need local governement OK to trade and to abide for certain international agreements, and politic, bad governance is back in the development process.

Can we think, critize deeply this thought and find out its weakness and strengh in terms of taking back the true effort to developemet to local elites, faithful people and not necessarily NGOs? Power local elites willing to serve their population?

Thanks for initiative

Yael Falicov - Jul 23, 2005 9:50 am (#13 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange

Dear Mr. Ahouissoussi,

Thank you very much for taking the time to share some profound reflections on issues of power and class based on your own experience of the NGO sector. The issues you raise are very complex and important.

I agree with you that there is an inherent asymmetry in the power relations, both between the donor and the NGO that receive the grant, and then also often between the staff of the NGOs -- in many cases, local elites -- and the local people living in extreme poverty who are the focus of the project or program funded.

Your comments raise a few key questions: -- given the inherent power differences, can the adoption of the principles we are proposing mitigate these differences to the point that the local people are empowered? -- should international agencies instead play a role of facilitating trade, such that local people can sell what they produce at a fair price?

There is a reason that the first principle of our approach is that "partners should be inclusive of and responsive to the marginalized communities that their projects benefit." At IDEX, one consistency amongst our partner NGOs is that they do not give handouts or see their work as a charitable endeavor. The community members plan, carry out and contribute to the community development work, so that they have ownership of it. Often, that means taking the approach of Dr. Yunus, microcredit groups or savings clubs. Often, the focus is to improve the quality of the goods they already produce, and in some cases IDEX plays a support role in finding markets for those goods.

I wonder if, based on your comments, we should clarify this first principle by adding something about the local communities contributing to and having ownership of the work carried out.

I'd be interested in what others' experience is.

Best,

Yael

Pamela McLean - Jul 23, 2005 3:24 pm (#14 Total: 23)

1.        

The introduction to this discussion mentioned:

Increasing global connections…opportunities ….alliances … work together… pressing issues of extreme poverty…democratic partnership model ..  diversity of circumstances ..innovation that responds to local need… open communication between parties before and during the partnership

 

However Andre Ahouissoussi asks “Can naturally asymmetric relationship ever be democratic?”

 

I would argue that these should not been seen as asymmetric relationships – not in the 21^st century – which is the age of information and “global village” ideas – and where we have ICTs to overcome limitations of time, distance and other communication barriers. This isn’t just a theoretical idea, it is a CawdNet reality –as CawdNet networks right into rural communities by combining ICTs and traditional networking. 

 

For a start it makes a difference if all parties see the issues of poverty as shared problems – which is increasingly the case. (TV programs and such-like mean that the rich and the poor know more about each other - and issues of inequality have to be addressed)

 

Both the rich and the poor have a vested interest in solving the problems of poverty. The partners who are suffering from poverty are the poverty experts. Expertise is one kind of resource – and a valuable one.  The people who bring money bring a different kind of resource. They probably also bring a different kind of expertise. It is only by combining these resources and genuinely valuing them all that real problem solving will be achieved.

 

The challenge is to find “a cultural meeting place” or “area of confluence” where all the parties who have something to contribute can feel comfortable and equal so that their contributions can flow smoothly together, and decision making can be genuinely democratic. ICTs bring us the ability to create these areas of confluence.

 

There are many ways to do it. Exchanging videos around set issues, for example, is one method of engaging in dialogue across cultural difference. Making short videos enables people to have their say in a physical place where they feel comfortable, relaxed and appropriately dressed.  By comparison, meeting physically in “the same physical space” presents problems – not just the obvious ones of cost and travel. The physical space where one groups feels comfortable can make the other feel at a disadvantage - awkward, uncertain, and even threatened - not the right setting for a democratic approach.

 

I believe that if issues like these are addressed sensitively and imaginatively – with appropriate people acting as cultural intermediaries – and with creative use of ICTs to enable communication - then equality of input and democratic approaches are possible.

 

Pam

DR.PRABIR DUTTA - Jul 24, 2005 10:43 am (#15 Total: 23)
CALCUTTA MANAGEMENT ASSOCIATION


Learning is a continuous process.There is no end point of learning.India should have flexibility and get rid of rigidity of opinions and thinking.Opinion reflected through the learned brain acts as regulatory force of the country.There might be difference of opinions of the people.But the truth is eternal.Nobody can disagree when guided by reasons and rationality which develop through education. “Education is the manifestation of perfection already in man.”So man reaches to the zenith of perfection when learning process reaches to wisdom.

Learning process begins from childhood through one’s collection of information which improves into knowledge developing skills.Skill refers to imperturbality helping acquire to maintain mental balance under pressure.Ultimately knowledge acquired and experiences lead to the stage of wisdom.

The child is born free to this world and look decent like a flower with his softness and innocence. Flowers blossom anywhere but they are most beautiful and attractive in a garden.Similarly a child is also beautiful in an environment conducive to grow properly.Mother is only his friend,philosopher and guide while he is born in the world.”Child is the father of man “- the epigram justifies the correctness with another epigram”The hand that rocks the cradle,rules the world.” So learning process should have no choice for gender when development of country is concerned. Learning lifelong should have equal rights and opportunity.No country can develop keeping half of the population out of literacy.

Plato stated,”uncritical life is not worth living.” A critical mind can show that the manifestation of perfection already exist in a man.Some philosophers define life a great struggle but other say life is a playhouse where we perform our role.Both may be correct because the pattern of different echelons change according to economic power.Those live below poverty line, struggle to earn for food to survive in the world whereas others are termed as lower or upper middle classes and a wealthy people as another section.Ofcourse most of them have a culture in diversity which prevent them to become arrogant to earn each by livelihood; a great role to play here literate people as guiding forces of any nation of the world.There are many religions viz.Christian, Muslim,Hinduism,Buddhists etc.but they exist as guided by humanity and respect for each other which has been possible with a flexible character and not to be rigid to thrust any opinion to abide by others.

For communcation there are many languages.Though a mother tongue is most important of the country,other languages are never ignored to flourish along with different cultures.English has been taken without rigidity as communication language and medium of higher education both in science and literature.But languages like French,German and Russian etc.are not ignored.The penchant of informations are being solved by newspapers, magazines and journals etc.This flexibility of acceptance is possible by continuous learning and capacity of critical judgement.Electronic media is becoming educative as well as media of entertainment.

Without technological advancement no country can develop.To achieve results skilled personnels are essential. For economic development technologists and other professionals are required to work which are being analysed by statistical expertise and economist to estimate the scio-economic development and impact on environment. The records are to be maintained scientifically for transparency.But human life will dry up if Arts,Music,Sculpture and Philosophy are not nourished in system of education.Both art and science are essential for fulfillment of life.

Our thinking should be based on our basic cognitive skills of awareness,perception,reasoning and judgement. The machine can never be panacea to solve the problem of the country but tools are useful to flourish the nation-“As a field however fertile cannot be fruitful without cultivation,so is a mind without learning.”

rxmgment - Jul 26, 2005 8:21 am (#16 Total: 23)

My name is Edward O. Ayanbiola, an African and a pharmacist by profession. I have lived in US for over 27-years and I was linked to this site after watching a PBS documentary about Social Entrepreneur: The New Heroes.

After the recently completed G8 summit, I wrote a personal letter the President George Bush, suggesting to him what I am suggesting here, and that is: set aside 10-15 percent of annual Grants to help thousands of US-trained and educated African professionals who want to return back to Africa to help build and develop Africa. This, in my opinion offers the best hope not only for Africans, but also for all poor Countries in the World. I firmly believe that if such program is well planned and implemented, the results over the years would exceed any expectation. IDEX has overlooked this important solution. Many of us own and manage our own businesses here. Private citizens create prosperity through enterprise. I don't think there is  any asymetric relationship between the donors and beneficiaries. The present economic hardship in Africa today is as a result of IMF, the donor, advising African governments, the recipicents, to do what it was not good for their economy and their people. However, the issues here are more than asymetric democratic relationship.

A case in point is our company. For the past four (4) years we have been trying to raise about $2.73 million to build a full scaled pharmaceutical manufacturing company in Nigeria to manufacture the new anti-malaria medication: Artemisinin. Up till today, we have NOT been able to raise even a dollar. We are not requesting for a grant, rather we are seeking a loan to be repaid in future. The question then becomes why are so many foreign aids/grants given to African governments, but none available to those like us who could make the greatest impact? IDEX needs to examine this question.

Lastly, if there is any organization or individaul who would like to help us, we can be reached at Pharmafric Drug Company, 6006 Greenbelt Road, Suite 334, Greenbelt, Md 20770. USA. OR by email at rxmgment@msn.com 

Thank you very much for this forum.

Edward O. Ayanbiola, CEO

  

Yael Falicov - Jul 26, 2005 9:26 am (#17 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange


Dear Mr. Ayanbiola:

Thank you so much for your important contribution to this discussion.

There has been a fair amount of discussion in international development circles of late (at least amongst those working in Latin America) of the concept of "hometown associations" -- groups of foreign nationals within the U.S. who work together to support community development in their hometowns. The Mexican government, with the support of some of the multilateral agencies, has begun very actively promoting this concept through its 3-to-1 program: for every dollar invested by an expatriate Mexican national into Mexico, the government promises three dollars of matching government funds.

The net effect of this investment has not been adequately studied. However, at a recent Mexico City gathering of Latin American social movement leaders and U.S.-based funding agencies, some of the Mexican organizations voiced the opinion that this strategy, while important, is not always helpful to the local community, as those who have left for many years may have agendas and priorities that are quite different than those of the people that have stayed home.

IDEX does not have experience working with hometown associations, nor with individuals such as Mr. Ayanbiola who are interested in reinvesting in their homelands. I would be interested in learning of any other organizations who have been involved with this so as to learn more about this strategy, where there is clearly much to be learned from this growing part of the field.

Best,

Yael

Balu Iyer - Jul 26, 2005 11:58 am (#18 Total: 23)
International Development Exchange


Dear friends,

As we wind down this discussion on international partnership, IDEX would like to thank you for your participation. It has been wonderful to hear from colleagues in Benin, India, Kazakhstan, Kenya, U.K., and U.S. Many of you have also contacted us by email requesting a copy of our report.

A point that has been made is the importance of building local skills and capabilities. People are not looking for aid, but opportunities to better themselves. This calls for improving governance, making trade fairer, equipping people with skills and encouraging local endeavors. The desire of Edward Ayanbiola to help thousands of US-trained and educated African professionals who want to return back to their countries is a reality in countries like China, India, Ireland, and Taiwan. The reverse brain drain is happening because of conducive environment, leverage of technology and the many factors mentioned above.

The other important thread is the need to focus the discussion of partnership internally. Stephen Mutoro of KARA has put it as domesticate the discussion. It is important to look at the asymmetric relationship with the communities whom we work. Donors are transient, communities are not. Andre Ahouissoussi, has eloquently stated, "our philosophy and strategic framework - educated and volunteers should locally empower their citizen (and make them) aware of their own strength."

Relationships are going to remain asymmetric as long as we limit the discussion to who holds the money. We need to look at the value that both sides bring to the partnership or as Pamela McLean puts it the expertise. There is need to look at non-fiscal aspects to a relationship and make it as important as the fiscal aspect.

This discussion has been a learning experience for us and we thank you for your participation. A special thanks to Social Edge for making this discussion possible.

Balu

Stephen Mutoro - Aug 22, 2005 2:26 am (#19 Total: 23)

Greetings to Yael et al! Marc of The Clarence Foundation earlier mentioned that "We're planning to co-host a traveling giving circle to Kenya that will incorporate a collaborative grant decision-making process between the participating donors and grantees, and this would be good required reading!". I would be keen to know how far he has gone. Of course I was excited at the mention of "Kenya" whose capital Nairobi was once mentioned as "The Green City In The Sun" Apparently. it is no more on account of devastating city's misgovernance over the years. When we talk democracy and governance, let us actualize participation and ownership from citizens in terms of developng and influencing policy formulation and implementation. At the Kenya Alliance of Resident Associations (KARA), this is our pre-occupation and we know just too well - that without partnerships we cannot get too far. Hoping to hear from you. Regards,

(kara@accesskenya.com)

 

gps394_64@rediffmail.com - Oct 7, 2005 10:32 am (#20 Total: 23)

 
   
 
Dear Sir,
         I am to inform you that the Grassroots Privileged Society is a registered non-governmental organisation working in the field of rural and tribal development in Kalapakkam Block and Javadhu Hills Block in Tiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu, South India since 2003.
         It has been implementing development activities in Livelihood programmes, Health and family welfare, agriculture and animal husbandry, village and cottage industries, disabled development activities and self entrepreneural activities, etc.
         It has been also focused on self development activities for those who are severely affected under below poverty line and to take necessary remedies for their rehabilitation.
         I would be request you to forward your guidelines or format of application for submitting a project proposal.
         I would be expecting your kind co-operation in this regard.
 
Address for communication:

Grassroots Privileged Society,
J.J.Nagar, Kalasapakkam,
Tiruvannamalai - 606 751
Tamil Nadu, South India.
e-mail:gps394_64@rediffmail.com

SB A/C No: 8061, Bank of India, Kalasapakkam Branch.

With kind regards,
Yours Sincerely,
(A.SUMATHI)
Seceretary.

 

 

Dear Sir,
         I am to inform you that the Grassroots Privileged Society is a registered non-governmental organisation working in the field of rural and tribal development in Kalapakkam Block and Javadhu Hills Block in Tiruvannamalai District, Tamil Nadu, South India since 2003.
         It has been implementing development activities in Livelihood programmes, Health and family welfare, agriculture and animal husbandry, village and cottage industries, disabled development activities and self entrepreneural activities, etc.
         It has been also focused on self development activities for those who are severely affected under below poverty line and to take necessary remedies for their rehabilitation.
         I would be request you to forward your guidelines or format of application for submitting a project proposal.
         I would be expecting your kind co-operation in this regard.
 
Address for communication:

Grassroots Privileged Society,
J.J.Nagar, Kalasapakkam,
Tiruvannamalai - 606 751
Tamil Nadu, South India.
e-mail:gps394_64@rediffmail.com

SB A/C No: 8061, Bank of India, Kalasapakkam Branch.

With kind regards,
Yours Sincerely,
(A.SUMATHI)
Seceretary.

 

 

samuel musyoka - Jun 15, 2006 2:17 am (#21 Total: 23)


Konza Community Development Project is a registered CBO (Community Based Organization)working in Rural Kenya towards poverty eradiaction programmes on grafted fruit and hybrid banana farming, HIV/AIDS care and Education, and Water and sanitation. The members are also interplanting vegetables with these fruits. The main objective of the project is to treat the causes of poverty and disease intead of the effects and increase household incomes. We would wish to partner with like minded groups and or individuals who will enable the CBO grow and transform into an NGO to serve the marginalised people and regions in Kenya. Views and participation are welcome on capacity building, Training,networking and funding.

CHRISDANIEL - Jul 17, 2006 7:16 am (#22 Total: 23)
PROF.DR.J.CHRISTOPHER DANIEL

 

Dear Sir:

Greetings from Goodwill social work centre,Madurai,India. Please take a few moments to visit our website at  http://mfcs.malianfoundation.org/goodwill/.

Thanks very much.

Prof.Dr.J.Christopher Daniel

Executive Director

Goodwill social work centre

Madurai,India

email:chriskan@satyam.net.in

 

mooniewong13074@yahoo.com - Sep 6, 2006 6:57 pm (#23 Total: 23)


How would you go about finding an international partner and what would your selection criteria be?