Bob Blees, Vice President of SIM USA:

In 2001 SIM was encouraged to apply for PVO (Private Voluntary Organization) status with USAID.  PVO status allows an organization to apply for funding for projects through USAID.  Without PVO status, there are significant limitations to working with USAID or getting government funding.
 
Due to SIM’s significant faith statements in our Articles of Incorporation, USAID rejected our application for PVO status.

Shortly after this, I began to be involved with CCIH.  As I became acquainted with members of CCIH board, and other members and related this story to them, I was encouraged to apply again to USAID.  I was skeptical that the outcome would be any different than before, but I was introduced to some folks working at the then, Office of Faith based Initiatives.  They were able to advise me somewhat on my approach, and review my application documents.  Also, through the help and friendship with the members of CCIH and my discussion with them, I made a determination to approach our application to USAID from a different direction.

 In 2004 I again applied to USAID for PVO status.  This time the outcome was very different.  Our application was approved in six weeks.
 
In the next two years, I was able to travel to our fields of work, to explain how to apply for USAID funding to our project managers in several countries.
 
By 2006 we were receiving 8 grants from USAID in 6 different countries.  These grants have benefited our projects significantly, and I have to express my appreciation to CCIH board and membership for assisting me in accomplishing this.