CCIH Monthly Bulletin

August 2007

1. CCIH AND MEMBER NEWS

CCIH BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING HOSTED BY MEDICAL TEAMS INTERNATIONAL

The CCIH Board of Directors met August 27-28 at the offices of CCIH Member Medical Teams International (MTI - http://www.medicalteams.org) in Portland, Oregon. It was the first time that the Board met on the west coast and Board members expressed their gratitude to MTI for their hospitality, support and encouragement.

Board meeting activities actually began on the evening of August 26 when MTI and CCIH hosted a dinner for about 25 CCIH members, MTI employees and other interested persons from the region. During the dinner guests were treated to presentations about CCIH and the work of MTI, including a tour of the MTI warehouse and the educational exhibit called “Real.Life.” (http://www.oregonlive.com/oregonian/stories/index.ssf?/base/editorial/1181946308200090.xml&coll=7) The exhibit is a graphic introduction to the effects of poverty, famine, disaster and armed conflict around the world. It is MTI’s attempt to bring these issues home to their community.

As part of their visit to MTI, Board members were invited to participate in Tuesday’s chapel service. During chapel, Board President Milton Amayun spoke about the role of the church in the effort to tackle the world’s most deadly diseases, almost all of which are highly preventable. He challenged Christians to take their place at the table when these diseases are discussed and to join in partnership with other civil society members and national and international entities, rather than keeping separate. Milton's presentation may be viewed at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/Diseases_of_Poverty-MTI_Devotions.0807.ppt.

MTI President, Bas Vanderzalm, opened the Board meeting on Monday morning with a devotion on Isaiah 58:10-11: a call for believers to “spend” themselves (NIV) on behalf of the hungry and oppressed. Along with that call comes God’s promise to guide, to satisfy needs and to give strength. Bill Essig, MTI’s Vice President of International Programs, briefed the CCIH Board on MTI’s global activities, sharing that in its programs and partnerships MTI tries to find the unique Christian impact its presence brings. MTI strives to be ever more intentional in this as its employees and supporters spend themselves on those who need their assistance.

SUMMARY OF THE AUGUST BOARD OF DIRECTORS MEETING

The CCIH Board of Directors meets three times a year to review its activities and to plan for the future. Board members are a dedicated group of volunteers who take an active role in the mission of CCIH. Time is spent liaising with CCIH members, affiliates and other supporters; on sub-committee tasks and on working groups; and on special assignments – all in addition to their normal work commitments. Board members make themselves available to anyone who wishes to express concerns and suggestions, encouraging member engagement in the mission of CCIH. Board contact information can be found at http://ccih.org/about/contact.htm.

The August Board meeting was second of 2007. Eight Board members traveled to Portland for the meeting and three others were able to join in by phone for some of the time. This meeting was the first attended by Douglas Huber, who was elected to the Board in May.

In the interest of transparency, the CCIH Board decided to post highlights of its meetings on the website. Any member wishing more details on any topic may request to view the actual minutes of the meeting or seek further clarification from the Board President.

The Executive Director's report to the Board of Directors can be found at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/Executive_Dir_Report_Bulletin_8.07.doc. Some of the other significant reports and activities of this month’s meeting are:

Election of a new Board Vice-President

The Board accepted the resignation as Board Vice President of Dorothy Brewster-Lee. Dorothy felt that her duties at Catholic Relief Services would make it difficult for her to fulfill the extra responsibilities required as Vice President. Dorothy will, however, remain on the Board as a member-at-large. In accordance with CCIH By-laws, the Board of Directors elected Laura van Vuuren to fill the vacant position of Vice President. Laura, senior technical advisor for HIV and AIDS at MTI, has served four years on the CCIH Board and has enthusiastically accepted the challenge of this new position.

Support for Students

Conference: The Board agreed to continue to sponsor the student –led Faith and International Development Conference at Calvin College, to be held January 31- February 2, 2008. The original idea for this conference evolved from the attendance of several Calvin students to the 2004 CCIH Annual Conference. It has become a yearly event attracting over 300 students and igniting in many of them a personal commitment to action on behalf of the poor and vulnerable of this world. This event has also inspired similar events at other colleges.

Speaker's Bureau and Seminar Series: The Board approved the formation of a Speaker’s Bureau to serve as a pool of experts in various fields who would be available to speak at events for students, members and others (see #4 below for more information). The Board also agreed to support speakers’ events, through Seminar Series mini-grants. Details of these activities will be forthcoming.

GHC and CCIH Conferences

CCIH is committed to encouraging its members, and others within the faith community, to submit abstracts for presentation at the Global Health Conference. The theme of the 2008 conference, community-based primary health care (CBPHC), is ideal as this is an area where FBOs have particular experience and expertise. See #8 and #36 below for more detail.

CCIH’s Annual Conference, to be held May 24-26, 2008, also follows the community-based primary health care theme: Community Health and Wholeness. Plans are already underway for the conference. The conference topics will be divided into tracks which will examine and celebrate the unique position that FBOs have in providing CBPHC and will discuss how they can scale up their efforts in this area in the future.

CCIH Staff

The Board committed to begin the process of hiring a Program Manager. See #3 below for more information.

MAJOR CCIH FUNDRAISING CAMPAIGN LAUNCHED – HIRING A PROGRAM MANAGER IS KEY OBJECTIVE

CCIH Executive Director Ray Martin and Program Associate Sharon Franzén love their work. They are concerned, however, that they have so many opportunities to expand CCIH’s ministry into exciting new directions but cannot take advantage of them because they are the only regular CCIH staff. The Board of Directors, reflecting the conviction that God is calling CCIH to an expanded program, approved the recruiting of a third staff person, conditioned on success in the current fundraising campaign.

This position would be for a fairly senior international and public health professional with proven management experience. Institutional advancement and fundraising would be significant elements of the job description. The incumbent would take over from the Executive Director some of the responsibility for the administrative and business tasks of running a small agency and help to expand CCIH’s outreach and services to churches, faith-based organizations, and other international health and development professional organizations.

The position has not yet been formally announced, but if you are interested, or know somebody who might be, contact Board President Milton Amayun, iaimilton@aol.com, or Executive Director Ray Martin, martinrs@aol.com.

The Board is pursuing a number of grant possibilities for special projects, but believes that if CCIH members value our information sharing and networking functions, they should be prepared to shoulder the core personnel costs of providing these services. That is the rationale behind the current fundraising campaign. CCIH individual members have been sent a fundraising proposal and have been asked to consider pledging financial support for the next three years. Organizational members will soon be contacted as well and asked to consider financial support beyond the low minimum dues required for membership.

Pledges have already been received for about $25,000 a year. The pledging target is $390,000 over the next three years on top of current dues and contributions. The Board set as an immediate goal to increase CCIH’s actual bank account by $30,000 over the August 23rd balance of about $17,000 by October 12, 2007. For more information concerning the current fundraising appeal, please contact Ray.

CCIH TO ESTABLISH SPEAKER'S BUREAU

The CCIH board approved a recommendation by student board member David Beversluis to establish a speaker's’ bureau. It will serve student groups, churches, Christian organizations, and community groups seeking speakers and resource persons with experience and expertise in international health for conferences, workshops, student activities, and church meetings.

Interested persons will complete a simple form providing a brief bio along with areas they feel competent to speak about. Students and church groups looking for speakers will contact CCIH or consult the database of potential speakers which will be on the CCIH website. An example of this kind of online service connecting groups seeking speakers with potential speakers can be found on the website of CCIH’s sister organization which focuses on medical and health services to the poor in the United States, Christian Community Health Fellowship, at http://www.cchf.org

More information about the Speaker's Bureau will be available in the September bulletin.

CCIH WORKING GROUPS MOVING FORWARD

Yet another topic discussed at the recent Board meeting was the progress of the CCIH Working Groups. Since their meetings in May at the Annual Conference, these groups of like-minded individuals have moved forward with the tasks of gathering members, agreeing upon mission and goals and identifying programs and activities in support of those goals. Listed here are highlights of some of the Working Groups:

Community-Based Health Care

Co-Chairs: Connie Gates (Connie@jamkhed.org), Nick Henwood (nickh@chgn.org), Bram Bailey (also Board Liaison, Bram_Bailey@usn.salvationarmy.org)

The goal of this WG is to be a forum for people interested in faith-based aspects of community-based primary health care (CBPHC). Proposed activities include joining and participating in the Community Health Global Network (CHGN – a CCIH member organization, http://www.communityhealthglobal.net) and developing a track for the CCIH Annual Conference, as well as other activities which will capitalize on and promote the renewed interest in CBPHC due to the 30th anniversary of the 1978 Alma Ata Declaration.

Disabilities

Board Liaison: Jacqui Patterson (jpatters1@yahoo.com)

Members have been identified and a listserv has been created for this WG. The group is beginning to discuss future activities.

Global Fund

Chair and Board Liaison: Milton Amayun (iaimilton@aol.com)

As a result of the initiative of this working group, and more specifically Milton Amayun, CCIH Board President and World Vision International expert on the Global Fund, about six Christian agencies in Rwanda have formed a consortium that is meeting monthly in hopes of submitting through the Country Coordinating Mechanism a proposal for Global Fund consideration in 2008. They have asked for continuing CCIH technical support in preparing this coalition proposal. A preliminary inquiry for CCIH support in working with faith-based groups to prepare a Global Fund proposal has also been received for Indonesia. CCIH is currently exploring how it can be the most responsive.

HIV Prevention and Health Behavior

Co-Chairs: Allison Herling (aherling@gmail.com), Emily Chambers (chambers@bu.edu)

Board Liaison: Dorothy Brewster-Lee (dbrewste@crs.org)

This was one of the first Working Groups. It was responsible for the production of the book, The ABC Approach to Preventing the Sexual Transmission of HIV: Common Questions and Answers. A Spanish translation of the book, supported by World Vision Costa Rica, is now ready for printing and distribution. This WG has been discussing several possible activities including a follow-up to the ABC book which would explore more in depth how Christian organizations are promoting the various components of this prevention approach, with a special emphasis on the A and B aspects.

Maternal Child Health

Board Liaison: Jacqui Patterson (jpatters1@yahoo.com)

This group met at the CCIH Annual Conference and is beginning to organize itself.

Orphans and Vulnerable Children

Chair: Dick Stellway (rjslink@mindspring.com)

Board Liaison: Dorothy Brewster-Lee (dbrewste@crs.org)

This WG has been very active. An enthusiastic group met at the CCIH Conference. The group has since been in contact through a dedicated listserv. Members have indicated their particular interests and some have formed special interest tracks within the WG of Care and Prevention. Members have shared relevant information and called for involvement or assistance in OVC issues.

Reproductive Health and Family Planning

Board Liaison: Jacqui Patterson (jpatters1@yahoo.com)

This WG has been actively organizing. A listserv for the group exists and the leadership will soon be determined. The group held a recent conference call involving 13 participants in which goals and activities were discussed. Among the possible activities are a compendium of the work of FBOs in this area, an RH/FP track at the 2008 CCIH Annual Conference, a possible separate RH/FP Conference and a series of topical conference calls. A pre-formed panel to be submitted for the Global Health Council Conference is also a possibility.

Transformation Indicators

Chair: Henry Mosley (hmosley@jhsph.edu)

Board Liaison: Dorothy Brewster-Lee (dbrewste@crs.org)

Although this emerging group was identified as the Transformation Indicators working group, it is likely that its name will be broadened to encompass a range of transformational development subjects, not just indicators. A recommended book is by Bryant Meyers, entitled Walking With the Poor - Principles and Practices of Transformational Development, which highlights the fact that personal transformation requires a fundamental change in world view, not just a change in behavior. Transformation means not only changing the structures of a system, but also the underlying beliefs and values that support the system.

In addition to Prof. Mosley’s interest, a leading innovator in this area is Stan Rowland, stanrowland@cs.com, of CCIH member LifeWind International, http://www.lifewind.org, a principal architect of the widely used approach known as Community Health Evangelism (CHE). LifeWind’s Coordinator of International Programs, Terry Dalrymple, Tdalry@cs.com, led a May 26, 2006, pre-CCIH conference workshop entitled A Christian perspective on transformational development and indicators.

CCIH’s mission statement includes the phrase “promoting international health and wholeness from a Christian perspective.” The concept of “transformation” can relate to the Christian value of wholeness.

Although this working group is still in the process of formation, Rowland and Mosley have indicated their availability to organize a conference to study and brainstorm these ideas if CCIH can identify an interested group of participants and provide organizational and logistical support. Anyone interested in transformational development is invited to let CCIH know by emailing Ray Martin at martinrs@aol.com.

LEAST OF THESE MINISTRIES WELCOMED AS A NEW CCIH ORGANIZATIONAL MEMBER

Least of These Ministries (http://www.leastofthese.net), incorporated in 2001, is primarily concerned with community health. Least of These lists as its mission (based on Matthew 25:40) “to connect the talents and resources of God’s Kingdom with those left out of this world’s goods, bringing health and hope to forgotten peoples”. The Executive Director, Myrna McLaughlin (myrna@leastofthese.net), has been a CCIH member for several years and her work has been featured in the CCIH Monthly Prayer Calendar quite often during the last year. Myrna is currently traveling in support of the ministry in Zimbabwe.

In the United States, Least of These Ministries supports the community of the Sioux Nation Reservation in North Dakota. In 2002 it established the 25/40 Health Station, which is now the property and responsibility of the surrounding community. It opens every Friday and is staffed with an MD, Chiropractor and Nurse and, once a month, with a dentist. The building also contains a small lending library.

Internationally, Least of These Ministries has worked in Peru, Dominican Republic, Uganda, and Zimbabwe. Much of its current effort is concentrated in Zimbabwe and, to a lesser degree, in Uganda. Active in Zimbabwe since 2002, it has sponsored the training of Community Health Workers in the village of Kamativi, in northwestern Zimbabwe. Myrna has made several trips to the area and has brought medicines and supplies to support the work of the clinics in Kamativi and Gwavi and school supplies for Mazwa primary school. The organization also pays the school fees for a number of the children.

The organization has been active in Uganda since 2006. Among its ministry there is support for a children’s center for food and care, including a small farm with pigs, chickens and goats to assist the center. They have also constructed a home for a widow with nine children, supported access to medicines for several HIV and AIDS patients and paid the school fees for a number of children.

The best way to learn about Least of These Ministries is to visit their website and read the various reports of their work. Theirs is truly a ministry that relies on faith for the resources to serve the poor and needy.

CCIH WELCOMES BOOKS OF HOPE AS NEWEST AFFILATE

Books of Hope (Iincwadi Zethemba) has designed and produced interactive, multilingual speaking books on current topics (mostly health) that can be seen, read, heard and understood by the reader regardless of their reading ability. Books of Hope first produced these books in association with the South African Depression and Anxiety Group (SADAG), which for more than a decade has led the way in empowering and educating rural communities in Africa on mental health and related health care issues.

In some communities the effectiveness of many health education efforts was negatively impacted by a low literacy rate. Speaking books address this problem by creating an effective means to present complex health care issues through the use of the latest sound chip technology and simple to understand picture books. These books use the same technology as the talking story books that are popular in many countries for pre-literate children and early readers, often with Disney or other well-known characters. The books, which are distributed free, feature a sound track (accessed by pushing buttons along the book's cover that correlate to a picture in the book) read by well-known local personalities in the local language and they take the reader on a step by step guide to wellness whilst encouraging them to build self confidence with a simple action plan. Every aspect of each book is created in collaboration with the sponsor requesting it so that it is relevant and appropriate to its intended use. The back cover of every book in the series lists all the phone numbers and resources for health care support. Examples of some of the current titles include “Living with HIV and AIDS” (in four languages), “Living Free of TB” and “Caring for your Child Headed Household” (in two languages). There are quite a few books nearing the end of the production process and new ideas are continually being explored. Having successfully established the design and production procedures for creating speaking books, Books of Hope is now ready to expand its reach beyond Africa. Johns Hopkins University Center for Communications programs has recognized and featured Speaking Books on their web site as well as entering into an agreement to jointly market the books.

The contact person for Books of Hope is Suzi Peel (Suzi@booksofhope.com) who has been an individual CCIH member for several years. For more information, please visit the website at http://www.booksofhope.com.

CCIH ENCOURAGES PEOPLE OF FAITH TO SUBMIT ABSTRACTS FOR THE GLOBAL HEALTH COUNCIL CONFERENCE

The Global Health Council has announced its call for abstracts for the 2008 International Conference on Global Health (see http://www.globalhealth.org/conference/view_top.php3?id=766, or #36 below,for full details). The conference theme of Community Health is a natural one for FBOs. Faith-based organizations and churches are often to be found in the most remote and poorest places on the earth and much of the time they are the only organizations there. CCIH enthusiastically encourages its members, and other FBOs, to celebrate their presence in communities by submitting abstracts to the Global Health Council for the conference. The FBO representation among presenters at the conference has been much lower than would be expected in recent years. It is time to change that and capitalize on the unique role that FBOs play in providing community health services by telling the FBO story!

CCIH is aware that some people and organizations would like to submit abstracts but are not confident of their skills to put together a dynamic abstract. We are therefore offering to assist with this process. Please contact CCIH Board President Milton Amayun (iaimilton@aol.com) or CCIH member Henry Mosley (hmosley@jhsph.edu) for questions and editorial assistance concerning the submission of a Regular, Preformed Panel or NIGH (New Investigators in Global Health) abstract. Requests for assistance should be made by September 15 to allow sufficient time for any revisions that might be necessary before the first deadline of October 5 (for the submission of cover sheets for abstracts for preformed panels.)

UNAIDS REQUESTS CCIH TO ORGANIZE MEETINGS FOR SENIOR OFFICIALS WITH FAITH COMMUNITY

UNAIDS, the Geneva-based Joint United Nations Programme on HIV/AIDS, http://www.unaids.org, is planning two visits by senior officials who want to learn to know better the faith communities in the U.S. Recognizing CCIH’s extensive networks and appreciating CCIH’s convening capacity, they have asked CCIH to organize sessions for their Partnerships Advisor on September 13th in Washington, DC and on September 14th in New York City and for their Executive Director on September 18th in Washington, DC.

Everyone is welcome. These sessions will help FBOs to learn more about UNAIDS and will inform UNAIDS about the AIDS activities of American FBOs and FBO concerns and suggestions for UNAIDS. CCIH is planning a survey of selected members to solicit information about their experiences with UNAIDS and their suggestions to enhance UNAIDS – FBO collaboration.

For details about the three meetings, go to http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/UNAIDS_Dialogue_With_Faith_Community.2007.doc.

FERTILITY AWARENESS-BASED METHODS OF FAMILY PLANNING

CCIH Affiliate the Institute for Reproductive Health of Georgetown University (http://irh.org) is dedicated to helping women and men around the world make informed choices about family planning and providing them with simple and effective Fertility Awareness-Based (FAB) options. Its goal is to make FAB methods easier to use and more widely available. By doing so it hopes to expand the options and address the needs of diverse populations with varied religious and ethical beliefs. These methods provide an alternative for women who want to use natural methods for medical or personal reasons.

The Institute has developed two new family planning methods: the Standard Days Method® and the TwoDay Method®. In addition to these two new exciting advances, the Institute is also working on other approaches that are still in the development phase. The successful introduction of these new methods is highly dependent upon the local programs and service providers that offer them. It collaborates with public and private organizations around the world. Much of the IRH’s work involves supporting service delivery programs in the introduction and provision of these methods. It designs and implements training programs to prepare service providers for all aspects of service delivery, including method selection criteria, counseling, client follow-up and recording of service statistics. It also develops teaching aids to assist programs and providers in offering the method as well as tools to make methods easier to teach and learn and to ensure correct use.

In the Standard Days Method (SDM) a couple tracks the woman’s menstrual cycle and avoids unprotected intercourse on fertile days 8 through 19 – if they want to avoid a pregnancy. Most users of the SDM rely on CycleBeads®, a color-coded string of beads, to help them track their cycle and identify the days when pregnancy is most likely. An efficacy trial found that the SDM was more than 95% effective with correct use and more than 88% with typical use among women who reported regular cycles of 26-32 days (see http://irh.org/RTP-SDM.htm for more information).

The TwoDay Method uses cervical secretions as the indicator of fertility. More than 96% effective when used correctly, this method instructs women to monitor daily the presence of secretions to know when pregnancy is most likely. If a woman notices any secretions today or yesterday, she considers herself fertile today. An efficacy trial found that the TDM was more than 96% effective with correct use and more than 86% with typical use among women (see http://irh.org/RTP-TDM.htm for more information).

IRH is organizing Scaling Up Best Practices in Fertility Awareness-Based Family Planning Methods, an event at Georgetown University on November 15 to create awareness about these methods and to learn how they have been introduced around the world. Representatives from the Ministries of Health in India, Madagascar, Mali and Rwanda will be present to share their experiences. Guest speakers will include Ruth Simmons from the University of Michigan and Peter Fajans from the World Health Organization. CCIH will also be participating in this meeting. Click here to view a flyer for the event. For further information, contact Meredith Puleio at mp447@georgetown.edu.

The Institute for Reproductive Health and CCIH are also exploring ways in which we might help disseminate information about fertility awareness-based family planning methods throughout our networks.

CALL FOR NOMINATIONS FOR 2nd DIGNITY AND RIGHT TO HEALTH AWARD

CCIH member the International Christian Medical and Dental Association HIV Initiative (ICMDA-HIV, http://www.icmdahivinitiative.org) has announced a call for nominations for the 2nd Dignity and Right to Health Award. The deadline to submit nominations is October 15, 2007. The award announcement will be made on World AIDS Day, December 1.

The "Dignity and Right to Health Award" provides an essential opportunity to recognize, support and publicize the most outstanding role models and champions acting to stop this global epidemic. It is positioned as an important symbol for ensuring that voices from diverse communities and countries are acknowledged and championed. The recipient of the inaugural award was Dr Biangtung Langkham (see http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/1206.htm#30).

ICMDA HIV established this award to model, mobilize and encourage creative and sustainable ways that enhance the dignity and human rights of people and communities living with HIV/AIDS epidemic and affected by the epidemic. The Award will be given to individuals for excellence, outstanding leadership and compassion in responding to HIV/AIDS. The process will seek nominees who demonstrate the following:

significant impact at local and wider level,
empowering others in integrated community responses,
facilitating church integration and participation in best practice models of care,
demonstrating excellence in full community involvement and empowerment of People Living With HIV and AIDS (PLWHA),
work, facilitate and advocate for gender equality in community participation and response to the epidemic,
link well with government and other actors in a comprehensive approach to the epidemic,
model creative and compassionate responses that inspire many to similarly enhance the dignity and human rights of people infected and affected by the epidemic,
does justice, loves kindness, and walks humbly with her/his God.

The official call for the nominations may be found at http://ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/DRH_Award_Announcement_2007.doc. The nomination form may be found at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/DRH_Criteria_Assessment_2007.doc. For further information concerning the award and the nomination process, please contact Michael Burke at team@icmdahivinitiative.org.

EMMANUEL HOSPITAL ASSOCIATION WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

CCIH member Emmanuel Hospital Association (EHA – http://www.eha-health.org) is in the midst of a leadership change. Dr. Mathew Santhosh Thomas was appointed as the new Executive Director of EHA as of August 6, 2007. He took over from Dr. Varghese Philip who served EHA for many years, first as the Medical Secretary and then as the Executive Director.

Dr. Santhosh (santoshmathew@eha-health.org) brings into the leadership considerable experience, having served in EHA units in various capacities for the past 15 years. He developed the Intensive Care unit at EHA’s largest hospital in Bihar (Duncan Hospital) and as the Coordinator for Tuberculosis, was involved with the development of TB services across the hospitals and projects in EHA.

EHA was founded in 1970 as an indigenous Christian health and development agency serving the people of North India. As a support network to its 20 member Christian hospitals, its primary focus is the poor, largely in rural areas. EHA is committed to the transformation of communities with programs that invest in the health and well being of everyone, irrespective of caste, creed or race. It is especially interested in promoting the development and empowerment of women and the health and nurture of children under five. With a catchment population of nearly seven million, EHA treats more than 500,000 patients each year in some of India's most needy areas.

Recently EHA has been assisting with the needs of nearly 50,000 people in 45 villages in the state of Bihar who have been affected by floods. EHA has run mobile health clinics and has concentrated on trying to prevent water-borne diseases. Using tractors and jeeps, relief materials (food, medical kits, water purification tablets and temporary shelters) were distributed to affected households. EHA has also provided bags and school books to children and seeds to farmers (see http://www.eha-health.org/news/newsindex.html and http://www.christianpost.com/article/20070806/28775_Christian_NGOs_Helping_Millions_of_Flood_Victims_in_South_Asia.htm.

Dr. Howard Searle, hsearle708@aol.com, a CCIH board member and former medical missionary to India, was one of the founders of EHA and currently serves voluntarily as EHA’s U.S. liaison.

HUMANITARIAN GROUPS FORGE MEDICAL SUPPLY PIPELINE FOR AIDS PATIENTS IN SOUTH AFRICA

The following press release comes from CCIH Affiliate the Foundation for Hospices in Sub-Saharan Africa (FHSSA – http://www.fhssa.org). It can be found at http://www.fhssa.org/i4a/pages/Index.cfm?pageID=3380. Anyone wishing to obtain more infomration about the program or about FHSSA, may contact Funmi Adesanya at fadesanya@fhssa.org.

(Alexandria, Va; August 6, 2007) – The Foundation for Hospices in Sub-Saharan Africa, in collaboration with Direct Relief International (http://www.directrelief.org), is launching a supply chain program to get hospice and palliative care supplies to HIV/AIDS patients in the Eastern Cape of South Africa. This program will bring necessary provisions such as antibiotics, ointments, bandages and gloves to care providers desperately in need of materials.

Every day, 6,500 people die from HIV/AIDS in sub-Saharan Africa – many without basic supplies that would bring much comfort. This is the first time hospices affiliated with this program will receive a substantial ongoing supply of needed medical products.

Direct Relief will procure medical supplies identified by the hospice professionals affiliated with FHSSA’s African partnering initiative. Direct Relief will control the supplies through the shipping, import/customs clearance, warehousing, and dispensing stages until the hospice program takes possession of the supplies. FHSSA will serve as the communication and coordinating contact with hospice and palliative care networks in Africa and will troubleshoot implementation issues.

“The lack of resources is a significant challenge for hospices serving people living with HIV/AIDS,” stated FHSSA Executive Director Phil Di Sorbo. “By ensuring that basic medical supplies are available on an ongoing basis, hospices can utilize resources more efficiently and increase the number of patients they are able to serve.”

The African Palliative Care Association will assist with the rollout of the supply chain beyond South Africa, where Direct Relief has just completed a demonstration program with seven hospices in the Eastern Cape.

This agreement advances FHSSA’s vision of granting each person suffering from HIV/AIDS or other terminal illness access to palliative care, including the medical supplies that aid in comfort.

The project idea originated with Sandy Knox-Johnson, who serves on the Board of FHSSA partner Hospice Care of Nantucket, Inc. and on the International Program Sub-Committee of Direct Relief’s Board.

Direct Relief International works to improve the quality of life for people in need by providing essential material resources to locally-run health programs in poor areas around the world and during times of disaster.

FHSSA’s mission is to support organizations in their development and provision of hospice and palliative care initiatives in sub-Saharan Africa.

RECENT CCIH LISTSERV MESSAGES

CCIH moderates four listservs: News, AIDS, ABCplus and Hospitals. Anyone can receive messages from these listservs by subscribing online at the CCIH website. As a service to our members who may not be on the listservs, we will be listing the most recent messages every month in the bulletin. An archive of messages sent from each listserv is accessible through the links listed below.

CCIH-News - http://www.ccih.org/pipermail/news_ccih.org

August

CCIH Monthly Prayer Calendar - August 2007

Plan to attend Nov. 8-10 Global Missions Health Conference in Louisville, KY

Employment Availability and Opportunity Announcements

Opportunity Announcement - Better Care Network

July

CCIH Monthly Prayer Calendar - July 2007

CCIH-AIDS -http://www.ccih.org/pipermail/aids_ccih.org

August

ICAAP 8 Pre-Conference Brings Religious Communities Together

July

Interfaith AIDS pre-conference prior to Asia AIDS conference in Sri Lanka

Program highlights of YWCA Summit on Women’s Leadership on HIV and AIDS, Nairobi

Zimbabwe HIV rate falls due to the "B" of ABC, despite poverty & low foreign aid

CCIH-ABCplus - http://www.ccih.org/pipermail/abcplus_ccih.org

August

Is Uganda abandoning ABC? A passionate critique of emerging prevention policies

July

International Women’s Summit on Women’s Leadership on HIV and AIDS, Nairobi

Zimbabwe HIV rate falls due to the "B" of ABC, despite poverty & low foreign aid

CCIH-Hospitals - http://www.ccih.org/pipermail/hospitals_ccih.org

July

Newsletter of Institute for International Medicine

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES WITHIN THE CCIH COMMUNITY

As a service to CCIH Organizational and Individual Members and to CCIH Affiliates, we provide a section in our monthly informational dispatches devoted to publicizing jobs. Organizations are welcome to announce positions for which they are recruiting and individuals seeking jobs are invited to publicize their availability. Notices should be short – only one or two paragraphs – and provide appropriate contact information such as mailing address, email address, website, and/or phone number. Please send announcements to Sharon Franzén at sfranzen@ccih.org.

Seeking Employment:

Christine Park, MA, BA - With a Masters degree in International Development from the Institut d'Etudes Politiques de Paris (Sciences Po) and a BA from the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University, Christine is looking for any entry-level or junior-level position in development, health or non health-related, that would ideally take advantage of her strong writing skills and fluency in French. Possibilities include advocacy and policy work, research, grant writing, and project management. Previous work experience includes interning at UNESCO, interning at the international NGO Global Hope Network, and working as a Research Assistant at the Center for Global Development. She is willing to travel, has extensive cross-cultural experience having grown up with immigrant parents and lived and worked abroad, loves to write, enjoys speaking French, and has strong quantitative skills including experience with STATA. To contact Christine, call her at: 646-339-4555 or email at: christinejinpark@gmail.com.

Phillip Summers, MPH - Phillip is a health administration professional with international experience in advocacy, research, and education and also a passionate leader who is guided by integrity and values. He is fluent in Spanish and has demonstrated the ability to build constructive and effective cross-cultural relationships, having worked in Latin America for 2 years. Phillip and his wife Melissa have just re-located for five months (September -January) to Quito, Ecuador while Melissa teaches at the Alliance Academy. Phillip recently graduated with a Master's degree in Public Health with an emphasis in international health. He is looking to work or volunteer with an organization while he is in Ecuador. Please contact Phillip at summers.phillip@gmail.com with any leads or recommendations of organizations serving the Lord in Ecuador.

Paige Beckley, BA/BS – With the coursework and thesis for a master's of international health from the Charité University in Berlin under her belt, Paige is looking to fulfill a requirement for foreign work experience to complete her master's studies and begin a career in the field. Possible employment matches include working as a personal assistant to a project leader, research assistant, community health worker, junior logistician, health educator, or some type of event coordinator. The ideal post would extend one year and include an opportunity to renew. She has experience working in Central America in environmental health and Central Europe in maternal and child health. Please contact: paigecbeckley@gmail.com.

Yewande Oguntoyinbo, MPH, BMedicine, BSurgery - Yewande is a trained physician with an MPH from University of Maryland College Park. She is interested in a position that will allow her to utilize her combined talents developed from training in both clinical medicine and public health. Her interests in public health and community health education are not limited by population group but are versatile and adaptable according to the needs and demands of the position. She always enjoys new challenges. Yewande is proud of the fact that she financed most of her education through a graduate fellowship. She also interned and volunteered with the NIH/GSK Herpes Vaccine at the CVD, UMD. She is available for immediate employment and can be reached at dapowande@yahoo.com or by phone at 301-604-7999.

Recruiting:

IMA World Health

IMA World Health (http://www.interchurch.org), formerly Interchurch Medical Assistance Inc., is a non-profit organization advancing health and healing in communities the world over.

Vice President for International Programs

Location: New Windsor, Maryland

Description: IMA World Health (IMAWH) seeks a professional with strong interpersonal and leadership skills; knowledge and experience in developing strategic partnerships with a diverse network of donor and partner organizations; and a proven track record in proposal development and successful resource mobilization in support of major international health program services. This is a full-time position with excellent benefits.

Requirements include: Doctorate or Master’s Degree in Public Health or Medical Doctor with significant Public Health experience; minimum five years documented international experience in field positions in Africa, Asia or Latin America; and proven proficiency in a second language such as French or Spanish.

A full description of this position can be found on the IMA World Health website at http://www.interchurch.org/news/article.php?articleid=90.

To apply, send resume and salary requirements to Ms. Carol Hulver, IMA, P.O. Box 429, New Windsor MD 21776. Fax 410-635-8726 or send an email to carolhulver@interchurch.org.

Medical Teams International

Apply for these and other positions online at http://www.medicalteams.org/site/PageServer?pagename=who_employ .

Senior Technical Advisor, Health

Location: Portland, OR

Primary Responsibilities:

Provide vision, direction, technical guidance and best practice application to lead the Health Unit and manage technical assistance to Medical Teams International's health project portfolio. This includes oversight of the technical backstopping & direction to our Child Survival project in Liberia.

Train and develop health unit staff, regional technical advisors, health project managers and health volunteers.

Incorporate evidence-based child survival techniques into other Medical Teams International health program designs. Remain current in best practices, current issues and trends in child survival and international health.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's in public health with strong public health background. MD, RN or PA preferred.

At least five (5) years of successful experience in health program management with large grants. Proven experience with Child Survival programming a plus.

Strong skills in designing, monitoring, and evaluating health interventions in the field and in a headquarters advisory position.

Proven experience in training international health professionals in community health/child survival tools and methodologies.

Community Health Project Manager

Location: Indonesia

Primary Responsibilities:

Maintain overall project vision and oversight of day-to-day operations of Medical Teams International’s community health project.

Recruit, hire and mentor local community health staff and ensure that staff receive adequate training to fulfill job requirements.

Establish collegial, mutually beneficial relationships, and share knowledge and expertise within the community health network in Nias and Indonesia.

Minimum Qualifications:

Master's in public health with strong international public health background.

At least two (2) years of successful experience managing community health programs in developing countries.

Proven experience with community health programming, including familiarity with participatory rapid appraisals.

Other Job Opportunities: CCIH maintains a list of the best sources of information on jobs and internships in international health. It includes links to literally hundreds of organizations, Christian and secular, that employ people both internationally and domestically in health. Some of them include jobs in other sectors as well. This list is online http://www.ccih.org/resources/jobs/index.htm. Also, see Bruce Carr’s work at http://www.helpingoverseasdirectory.org. In addition, many CCIH member and affiliate organizations advertise employment, intern and volunteer opportunities on their websites. Other sources of job, internship and scholarship information are the Philanthropy News Digest (http://foundationcenter.org/pnd/jobs) and, for students, the listserv of the University Coalitions for Global Health (http://www.ucgh.org).

CCIH MONTHLY PRAYER CALENDAR

CCIH recognizes that prayer is vital to our work and ministry and to the work and ministry of our members as well as all those working in international health. We invite you to use this monthly prayer calendar (which lists a prayer for every day of the month) to pray with us about our work, the work of our members and the needs of the world. Please copy and distribute it freely. The Prayer Calendar is also available on the CCIH homepage (http://www.ccih.org) from the first day of every month. To receive the Prayer Calendar by email at the beginning of each month, subscribe to the CCIH-NEWS listserv on the homepage at http://www.ccih.org.

We encourage suggestions for prayer points for next month's prayer calendar. Please contact Sharon Franzén. Click here to view the August 2007 Prayer Calendar. The September Prayer Calendar is available at http://www.ccih.org/prayercalendar/Sep07.pdf.

2. CONFERENCES AND EVENTS

SEPTEMBER 10-15, 2007 - COMMUNITY HEALTH EVANGELISM (CHE) TRAINING OF TRAINERS I (COLORADO SPRINGS, CO)

Offered by CCIH Member LifeWind International, TOT I is a week-long course, consisting of 35 hours of training, designed to equip Christian leaders and organizations to implement their own integrated ministry of community health and evangelism. Those who attend a TOT will be equipped to set up a CHE program and to train CHE volunteers for work in their communities. All teaching is in a participatory style using large and small group discussions, various hands-on activities, and methods that can be replicated to the village setting.

For more information on CHE and the trainings offered go to the LifeWind website at http://www.lifewind.org. For information about this training in September contact Kristin Grissom at Kristin@LifeWind.org.

SEPTEMBER 27, 2007 - GLOBAL CONNECTIONS/HEALTHCARE MISSION FORUM - COMMUNITY HEALTH: RELAUNCH FOR THE 21st CENTURY (LONDON, UNITED KINGDOM)

As the Millennium Development Goals reinvigorate global health, the community is again returning to the heart of the agenda. Transformation and empowerment are the buzz-words, but in a 21st century context. This event will highlight models, which are emerging at the cutting edge of global health. The forum will look primarily at the situation overseas, but will also involve a case study from the UK. The main speakers for the day will be Ted Lankester and Nick Henwood of CCIH Member Community Health Global Network (CHGN - http://www.communityhealthglobal.net).

This is an open event for all interested in how Christians and others can be involved in the health needs of the world: doctors, nurses, healthcare professionals, students and mission personnel. We welcome Global Connections, Global Mission Network, CMF, PRIME and CHGN members, and other interested parties. The meeting is designed to be of value to both those with little background and also those with plenty of experience. The event is free for Global Connections members. There is a charge of £25 for non-members.

The day will start with Biblical reflection and a time of worship. It will contain plenary sessions, an expert panel and a series of grass-roots ‘stories’ from those involved in transforming their communities. The day is also a great chance to network with those working in community health or in other areas of global medicine and healthcare mission, or with a vision to do so.

For further information and to register, contact Paul Tuckwell at ptuckwell@globalconnections.co.uk. Details may also be found on the Global Connections website or through CHGN at http://www.communityhealthglobal.net/Events/ViewEvent.aspx?id=12&EventType=0.

OCTOBER 5-7, 2007 - THE JOURNEY DEEPENS (PASADENA, CALIFORNIA)

The Journey Deepens, co-sponsored by CCIH member In His Image International Medical Missions (http://www.inhisimage.org/internationalmedicine.html) is a weekend retreat to help prospective missionaries explore what it is like to be a missionary, discover whether a missionary or sender role is God's fit, and connect with mission agencies. The retreat, presented by MissionsFocus Int'l, is also co-sponsored by Finishers, MissionNext, Perspectives and the U.S. Center for World Mission. The first 2007 retreat will be October 5-7 in Pasadena, California on the campus of the U.S. Center for World Missions. This will be followed by a retreat on October 26-28 in Atlanta, Georgia. These retreats are for college students, young professionals in their 20s and 30s, adults in their 40s and 50s, and high school seniors willing to explore becoming a missionary. Each retreat of 50 participants and 10 experienced missionaries from multiple agencies is highly relational with extended worship, small group discussions, personal reflection and much prayer. Discussions include guidance, finances, singles/families, etc. For more information, please go to http://www.thejourneydeepens.com/retreats.asp.

OCTOBER 5, 2007 - DEADLINE FOR SUBMISSION OF PREFORMED PANEL COVER SHEET FOR 2008 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GLOBAL HEALTH OF THE GLOBAL HEALTH COUNCIL

OCTOBER 17, 2007 - DEADLINE FOR ABSTRACT SUBMISSION FOR 2008 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GLOBAL HEALTH OF THE GLOBAL HEALTH COUNCIL

The 35th International Conference on Global Health, sponsored by the Global Health Council, will take place May 27-31, 2008. The theme of the 2008 conference is Community Health: Delivering, Serving, Engaging, Leading. The Global Health Council is soliciting abstracts in two subject areas. The first is the theme of Community Health, and the other pertains to the key issues of global health that are at the heart of health work around the world. The Council also seeks abstracts with findings on the cutting edge of research, practice and policy that are innovative, visionary and in the vanguard of global health.

The official call for abstracts can be found at http://www.globalhealth.org/conference/view_top.php3?id=766. See #36 below for more information. Online abstract submission opens on September 6. The conference website is http://www.globalhealth.org/conference.

OCTOBER 26-28, 2007 - THE JOURNEY DEEPENS (ATLANTA, GEORGIA)

See #18 above for information or go to http://www.thejourneydeepens.com/retreats.asp.

NOVEMBER 3, 2007 - PRE-APHA WORKSHOP - THE EFFECTIVENESS OF COMMUNITY-BASED PRIMARY HEALTH CARE IN IMPROVING CHILD HEALTH: A REVIEW OF THE EVIDENCE AND FINDINGS FROM THE FIELD (WASHINGTON CONVENTION CENTER, WASHINGTON, DC)

Time: 8:30 am - 5:00 pm

Fee: $10 (payable at the door; registration for APHA is not required)

Over the past two years, a Task Force of the Working Group on Community-Based Primary Health Care (CBPHC) has been guiding a review of the effectiveness of CBPHC in improving child health. This review has now drawn in the active collaboration of a distinguished Expert Review Panel, the World Health Organization, UNICEF, and the World Bank.

Facilitated by Henry Perry and Paul Freeman, this workshop will review the findings of the review and its implications for policy, practice and research. In addition, several exemplary case studies of outstanding examples of CBPHC in improving child health will also be presented. Sessions will be highly interactive. Participants from all levels of public health experience, from students to highly seasoned professionals, are welcome.

For further information contact: Henry Perry (henry@future.org) or Paul Freeman (freeman.p.a@att.net).

NOVEMBER 4 – 7, 2007 – AMERICAN PUBLIC HEALTH ASSOCIATION ANNUAL MEETING (WASHINGTON, DC)

The APHA Annual Meeting & Exposition is the oldest and largest gathering of public health professionals in the world, attracting more than 13,000 national and international physicians, administrators, nurses, educators, researchers, epidemiologists, and related health specialists. APHA's meeting program addresses current and emerging health science, policy, and practice issues in an effort to prevent disease and promote health. Participants have an opportunity to learn from the experts in the field, hear about cutting edge research and exceptional best practices, discover the latest public health products and services, and share their public health experiences with peers. CCIH will have a booth in the exhibit hall.

Registration for the meeting is now open. One-day registration is available on-site only. For more information about the annual meeting, go to http://www.apha.org/meetings.

NOVEMBER 8 – 10, 2007 – GLOBAL MISSIONS HEALTH CONFERENCE (SOUTHEAST CHRISTIAN CHURCH, LOUISVILLE, KY)

The Global Missions Health Conference began in 1996 as a way to bring Christian healthcare professionals and students together to network with missions and ministry experts. From its first gathering of a couple hundred people, the conference has grown to become the largest of its kind in the world, drawing more than 2,000 each year.

An interactive pre-conference each year encourages participants to develop strategies on various medical missions issues such as HIV/AIDS, and holistic healing. Plenary speakers at the conference come from both small and large para-church organizations, prominent medical and research schools, and government and church leaders. In addition to main sessions, the conference offers dozens of breakout sessions in smaller, often interactive formats. Many sessions are offered with continuing education credit. The conference also provides a selection of spiritually edifying experiences such as worship and prayer. And there is an abundant amount of time dedicated to networking. CCIH is a co-sponsor or partner in this conference and will have a booth in the exhibit hall. Several CCIH members will be on the program.

Registration is currently available online. For more information about the conference, go to http://www.medicalmissions.com.

NOVEMBER 19-22, 2007 - ASIA CUTTING EDGE: THE CHILD OUTSIDE THE DOOR (BANGKOK, THAILAND)

Asia Cutting Edge is the meeting place of the Christian movement for children at risk in Asia. It is organized by the Viva Network (http://www.viva.org). The Conference will enable leaders, decision makers and senior staff of Christian organizations and churches engaged with children to meet. It will advance work that enables children to be all they can be as God intends. Conference participants will be key drivers of the children at risk agenda in their own organizations. They include decision makers and senior staff from a wide range of organizations concerned for children, national, regional and international church leaders, child specialists, seminarians and academics. For more information on the conference, go to http://www.asia.viva.org/asiace. This is an invitation-only event: If you or a colleague would like an invitation to this event please write to the conference coordinator at asiace2007@viva.org.

NOVEMBER 28, 2007 - DEADLINE FOR ABSTRACT SUBMISSION FOR NEW INVESTIGATORS IN GLOBAL HEALTH FOR 2008 INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GLOBAL HEALTH OF THE GLOBAL HEALTH COUNCIL

The Global Health Council invites abstract submissions for its New Investigators in Global Health (NIGH) program. The NIGH program is a competitive abstract submission and selection program designed to highlight exemplary research, policy and advocacy initiatives of new and future leaders in global health, and empower participants with global health advocacy skills. The program also provides the selected participants with the opportunity to make a presentation at a major international conference. The NIGH Program is open to all students currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in a health-related field OR new professionals who have received their terminal degree in a health-related field within the past two years (i.e. graduating in or since May 2006).
Abstracts are sought from across the global health spectrum.

For more information about the program, go to http://www.globalhealth.org/conference/view_top.php3?id=770. Information is also available at #36 below.

NOVEMBER 28 - 30, 2007 – GLOBAL SUMMIT ON AIDS AND THE CHURCH (SADDLEBACK CHURCH, LAKE FOREST, CA)

The Global Summit on AIDS and the Church was begun in 2005 by Rick and Kay Warren. It is a high profile event that joins church leaders and members together with faith-based organizations and experts from public and private sectors.

Spanning three days, summit participants will have an incredibly unique opportunity to hear from the foremost leaders addressing the AIDS pandemic. From medical developments to political action to on-the-ground relief workers, the resources at your fingertips will be unmatched as you connect with others working to end this disease. This summit will also provide participants with the information and tools needed to discover how congregations, organizations, or agencies can start to make a positive change. Every element of the summit is designed to start conversations and build networking that will make the movement to eradicate AIDS all the stronger.

A special guest for this year's summit will be Dr. Peter Piot, Executive Director of UNAIDS, who will be speaking on November 29. And Saddleback is inviting all of the leading US Presidential candidates to participate in a panel discussion on what they plan to do about the HIV and AIDS pandemic on both the global and domestic front.

Also offered this year for the first time is a choice of 6 Pre-Summit sessions on the morning of November 28. You must register for the main summit and pay an additional registration fee of $45 to attend these pre-summit sessions. A special World AIDS Day concert is planned for the evening of November 30 and a Global Youth Post-Summit session will be offered on December 1 in the morning.

Registration is now open but space is limited. Local hotels are offering a limited number of rooms at a special conference rate. Go to http://www.purposedriven.com/en-US/HIVAIDSCommunity/GlobalConference/Initiative.htm for more information.

JANUARY 31-FEBRUARY 2, 2008 - INTERNATIONAL FAITH AND DEVELOPMENT CONFERENCE: FRUIT THAT LASTS (CALVIN COLLEGE, GRAND RAPIDS, MICHIGAN)

The overarching theme of the 2008 Faith and International Development Conference is sustainability. A focus will be on the key role of partnerships between the Global North and the Global South. The goal of the conference, which is co-sponsored by CCIH, is to encourage dialogue between students and development professionals about what authentic sustainability and partnership looks like and to challenge one another to cooperate more fully.

The conference schedule will be split between five plenary and five breakout sessions. Plenary sessions will cover Sustainability in community development, Ecological view of sustainability, Sustainability in health care for the poor, the contribution of business to economic sustainability, and a final panel discussion reflecting on the ideas presented throughout the conference.

More detailed information about the Calvin Conference will be available soon. The contact person for the conference is Michelle Fraser (maf8@calvin.edu).

APRIL 12-13, 2008 - UNITE FOR SIGHT 5th ANNUAL INTERNATIONAL HEALTH CONFERENCE: BUILDING GLOBAL HEALTH FOR TODAY AND TOMORROW (YALE UNIVERSITY, NEW HAVEN, CONNECTICUT)

Join 2,000 people interested in public health, global health, international development, social entrepreneurship, nonprofits, philanthropy, microfinance, medicine, human rights, anthropology, education, health policy, advocacy, public service, environmental health, and eye care. This empowering, energizing conference brings together students, doctors, nurses, Peace Corps volunteers, public health, business and nonprofit professionals, anthropologists, policy makers, philanthropists, educators, and others.

The conference will include keynote addresses by 130 experts from around the world including Dr. Jeffrey Sachs, Dr. Sonia Sachs, Dr. Susan Blumenthal, and Dr. Jim Yong Kim. Registration is now available online with prices rising monthly.

Registration for the conference is currently $80 for professionals and $55 for students. After September 30 the rate increases by $5 each month. For more information, go to http://uniteforsight.org/conference/2008/index.php.

MAY 24-26, 2008 - CCIH ANNUAL CONFERENCE: COMMUNITY HEALTH AND WHOLENESS (BISHOP CLAGGETT CENTER, BUCKEYSTOWN, MARYLAND)

The CCIH Annual Conference will once again be held at the Bishop Claggett Center. The theme for 2008 - Community Health and Wholeness - celebrates the unique and important role that faith-based organizations can play in providing quality health care at the community level, where they are often the only ones working. Participants will mark the 30th anniversary of the Alma Ata Declaration by taking a critical look at the track record of FBOs and the church with regard to serving the needs of communities and will discuss ways in which this service can be even more effective and appropriate in the future.

Mark your calendars and plan to join us as we share, reflect, debate and join for fellowship on May 24 - 26! The Conference planning committee will be contacting members for suggestions for topics for plenary and workshop sessions during the conference and pre-conference. For the first time, CCIH has decided to invite its members and others interested in presenting to submit abstracts to the planning committee to aid in identifying the best topics and presenters. The call for abstracts will be issued in September.

Any comments, suggestions or questions may be sent to Sharon at sfranzen@ccih.org.

MAY 27-31, 2008 - INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON GLOBAL HEALTH - COMMUNITY HEALTH: DELIVERING, SERVING, ENGAGING, LEADING (OMNI SHOREHAM HOTEL, WASHINGTON, DC)

Participants at the Global Health Council Conference will examine past and present approaches to community-based health care, digesting failures and successes, best practices, key players, etc. in their quest to learn to use this knowledge to move forward and scale up services to those who need it most. The GHC has put out a call for abstracts for the conference (see #19 and #24 above). CCIH encourages members of the faith community to submit abstracts so that the FBO voice of experience can be even more influential in discussions about the future. (see #8 above).

For information on the conference, go to http://www.globalhealth.org/conference.

AUGUST 3–8, 2008 – INTERNATIONAL AIDS CONFERENCE (MEXICO CITY, MEXICO)

The International AIDS Conference is the world’s largest HIV/AIDS forum, with over 20,000 participants, including 2,500 journalists. As the first International AIDS Conference to be held in Latin America, the XVII International AIDS Conference (AIDS 2008) is expected to increase awareness of the disease and its impact throughout the region. Planning for AIDS 2008 is now underway, with planning committees organized along the three main program areas: the Scientific Program, the Community Program and the Leadership Program. Organizers are committed to creating a far-reaching program featuring the latest developments in HIV research, prevention and treatment, with continued attention given to the dangers of HIV-related stigma, discrimination and misinformation.

Plans are underway for a Christian Pre-conference. More information about this event will be posted as soon as it is available.

For further information about the conference, go to http://www.aids2008.org. For information about the International AIDS Society, go to http://www.iasociety.org.

DECEMBER 8-11, 2008 - 15th INTERNATIONAL CONFERENCE ON AIDS AND SEXUALLY TRANSMITTED INFECTIONS IN AFRICA –ICASA (DAKAR, SENEGAL)

The 15th ICASA Conference, originally scheduled to be held in Gabon in 2007, will now be held in Senegal in December 2008. With more than 5,000 delegates from across the globe, ICASA 2008 will be organized by the Society on AIDS in Africa (SAA) under the patronage of the Government of Senegal. The initial planning has already begun. Keep an eye on the conference website, http://www.icasadakar2008.org, for further information.

The Pan African Christian AIDS Network (PACANet - http://www.pacanet.net) will most likely be organizing a Christian Pre-conference for this event.

ADDITIONAL CONFERENCES AND TRAINING OPPORTUNITIES

For an extensive list of conferences of interest to or about medical missions (or to give notice about an upcoming conference) visit the website of CCIH Affiliate, Medical Mission Exchange, at http://www.mmex.org/conferences.aspx.

King College Center for Global Health Care, a CCIH member, operates the Peeke School of Christian Mission which offers workshops all year round on a variety of topics in health and Christian missions. For information on upcoming workshops go to http://www.king.edu/Academics/Schools/pscm/cghc/workshops.asp.

For lists of other upcoming public health conferences (both secular and faith-based):

Subscribe to the Friday letter, a weekly report from the Association of Schools of Public Health (ASPH) by sending an email to FridayLetter@asph.org. Many other resources, including funding opportunities for both faculty and students, can be found on their website, http://www.asph.org.

Refer to the website of the Kaiser Family Foundation at http://www.kaisernetwork.org/calendar/calendar.cfm.

The Global Health Council maintains a calendar of general events with a filter just for conferences at http://www.globalhealth.org/calendar.php.

3. OTHER NEWS AND RESOURCES

ASIAN AND PACIFIC RELIGIOUS LEADERS CALL FOR COMMITMENT IN FIGHT AGAINST HIV AND AIDS

On August 17-19 religious leaders from Asia and the Pacific gathered together at the Interfaith Pre-conference to the 8th ICAAP (International Conference on AIDS in Asia and the Pacific) under the theme of Response of Faith Communities to HIV and AIDS - Have We Kept the Promise? The pre-conference was sponsored by the Asian Interfaith Network on AIDS (AINA), the Christian Conference of Asia (CCA – http://www.cca.org.hk), and the Ecumenical Advocacy Alliance (http://www.e-alliance.ch). Over 200 leaders from the Buddhist, Hindu, Muslim and Christian communities met to affirm their commitment to increase involvement in the fight against HIV and AIDS and to discuss ways of collaborating in order to do this.

This interfaith meeting produced a statement which was presented at ICAAP. It can be found at http://www.cca.org.hk/home1.htm. In the statement the delegates said: "Having deliberated for three days on the role of faith communities in addressing HIV and AIDS, we recognize that the values of our religions compel us to respond to the human suffering caused by HIV and AIDS in our communities. These values also provide a unique and distinctive contribution to the overall response to the AIDS pandemic." They committed to strengthen existing partnerships, and develop new ones, both amongst themselves and with other national and international entities. They work together to make sure that religious leaders at all levels spreading the message of HIV prevention "are equipped to provide accurate, evidence-based information" while also focusing on values and tradition of the various traditions.

A commitment was made to strengthen AINA to enable it to develop tools to train religious leaders as they navigate the sensitive issue of HIV and AIDS. Many conference delegates expressed the difficulties that they face in speaking out about HIV and AIDS in their communities, including dealing with dismissive attitudes and opposition from their own religious leaders. These difficulties must be dealt with, not side-stepped, in order to be able to use the existing structure of the faith communities to provide "the full range of prevention, treatment, care and support services."

An article by Ecumenical News International covering the pre-conference can be found at http://www.eni.ch/featured/article.php?id=1141. An IPS article can be found at http://www.ipsnews.net/news.asp?idnews=38940#share. The Christian Post also reported on the meeting (http://www.christianpost.com/article/20070825/29056.htm) with several Christian leaders confirming that when the church takes a greater role in the fight against HIV and AIDS, the impact can be huge. The struggle against stigma is especially important and is an area where the church can be a leader.

SEMINAR TOUR TO KENYA AND TANZANIA TO HIGHLIGHT WORK OF FBOs

Professionals and students are invited to join a seminar tour to Kenya and Tanzania from January 16-29, 2008 which will highlight the unique role of faith based health services and hospice care. Site visits to health clinics, AIDS orphans programs, home-based hospice care, mission hospitals and empowerment programs for microfinance and Fair Trade are among the cross-cultural exchanges to be engaged. The tour is being coordinated through Palliative Care International and will be led by CCIH member Peter Sarver. In the last twenty years, Peter has led seminars to various sub-Saharan countries during the course of his 16 trips to the continent. As a facilitator of partnerships between American and African programs, he has helped nurture relationships among churches, colleges, hospices and other health providers.

The trip is limited to 24 participants and there are only a few slots left. The participants will eventually split into three sub-groups, one of which will visit the Hospice at Meru in northern Kenya, while the other two will travel to Tanzania where one will visit hospitals and clinics in the Arusha/Moshi areas, and the other will go to Bumbuli Hospital in the Usambara Mountains.

Registration forms are available upon request. Act quickly if you are interested as the trip is nearly full! The overall charge is $4,250 for the 14-day trip that includes the days in transatlantic travel, with the starting point of Dulles International Airport near Washington, DC. For specific details of the trip and to register, contact Peter at psarver234@yahoo.com. A tour description may be found at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/SSA2008TKtourProspectus.doc and the preliminary itinerary is at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/SSA2008ItineraryTanzKenya.doc.

GLOBAL HEALTH COUNCIL CALLS FOR ABSTRACTS FOR 2008 CONFERENCE

For its 2008 International Conference on Global Health, the Global Health Council (GHC – http://www.globalhealth.org) is soliciting abstracts that address the important lessons that can help improve overall health status and reduce health inequities. Abstracts should cover the conference theme of Community Health or address Key Issues of Global Health. The Council also seeks abstracts with findings on the cutting edge of research, practice and policy that are innovative, visionary and in the vanguard of global health.

Theme-Related Abstracts : Delivering, Serving, Engaging and Leading

The key to achieving health in the community is based not only on getting services to the community, but also engaging and empowering communities to be the catalysts of change and bearers of success. The Global Health Council invites abstracts that address any issues related to improving the well-being of the community and of all individuals within that community.

Key Health Issue-Related Abstracts

The key to achieving the goal of improving the health of the world’s poorest citizens is to learn and to share the latest findings related to new and innovative programs and policies in the key health issues of global health – child health and survival, women’s and reproductive health, HIV/AIDS, other major infectious diseases, among others.

There are three types of abstracts that may be submitted: Regular Abstract, New Investigators in Global Health (NIGH) Abstract and a Preformed Panel. You do not have to be a Global Health Council member to submit an abstract. Online abstract submissions begin on September 6.

Regular Abstract: A regular abstract may be submitted by anyone. Those submitting abstracts will be asked to state whether they would rather present their topic as a presentation, a panel discussion or a poster presentation, but the final decision as to the format lies with the Abstract Review and Panel Formation Committee. The deadline for submission of Regular Abstracts is October 17.

NIGH Abstract: The NIGH (New Investigators in Global Health) program is designed to highlight exemplary research and projects of new and future leaders in global health. This program is open to all students currently enrolled in a degree-seeking program in a health-related field OR new professionals within two years of achieving their terminal degree in a health-related field. The program includes a panel and poster session, with presentations selected from a competitive abstract process. The deadline for submission of NIGH Abstracts is November 28.

Preformed Panel Abstract: The preformed panel should consist of 3 or 4 presenters and a moderator. In an effort to ensure diverse participation on the panels, the presenters should represent different organizations, however their presentations should go well together. It includes a moderator who is familiar or involved with the programs and research addressed by the panel. It is recommended that the moderator be a representative from the organization that is taking the lead in forming the panel. One contact person will be the primary liaison with the GHC for the panel. The deadline for the Submission of Cover Sheets for Preformed Panels is October 5; The deadline for the Submission of Abstracts that Make Up the Preformed Panel is October 17.

CCIH feels that FBOs have a comparative advantage when it comes to promoting community-based health care and would like to encourage its members and others in the faith community to think seriously about submitting an abstract for the 2008 conference. CCIH is offering to assist with editing abstracts with a faith-based theme. For more details see #8 above.

For more detailed information regarding abstracts, go to http://www.globalhealth.org/conference/view_top.php3?id=766.

ABSTINENCE AMONG YOUTH IN MADAGASCAR INCREASED BETWEEN 2003 AND 2006

From late 2005 to early 2006, Population Services International (PSI - http://www.psi.org) in Madagascar conducted a household survey to investigate reproductive health of a representative sample of youth between the ages of 15 and 24 years. This 17-page report, found at http://www.psi.org/research/smr/601-Madagascar_Youth_Abstinence_SMRS.pdf, presents findings from the survey, which examined abstinence in youth and was designed to provide evidence for social marketing decision making. The main findings indicate the levels of indicators of abstinence increased significantly from 2003 to 2006 with the levels of youth who had never had sex rising from 45.8% to 56.2%. More dramatically the levels of secondary abstinence rose from 1.8% to 11.3%. The levels of determinants of abstinence were all above the average. Anyone wishing more information about the Madagascar study may contact andryr@psi.mg at PSI.

SUPPORT FOR NGOs THROUGH NGOCONNECT.NET

NGOConnect.NET (http://www.ngoconnect.net) is a dynamic and interactive portal dedicated to connecting and strengthening NGOs, networks, and NGO support organizations worldwide. It provides some of the best tools, theoretical frameworks, innovations and lessons learned that the NGO community, donors and worldwide support organizations have to offer. It is supported by USAID through the Capable Partners Program (CAP). CAP improves the capacity and sustainability of local NGOs and networks around the world through global training programs, small grant programs, the NGOConnect.NET web portal, and Associate Awards that meet specific USAID Mission objectives.

The website has a Grant Opportunities page (http://www.ngoconnect.net/ev_en.php?ID=6936_201&ID2=DO_TOPIC) which provides information on current grants opportunities for small and medium sized civil society organizations working in a variety of areas and geographic regions. It is definitely a useful resource for information on private and foundation grants, with direct links to websites.The Fundraising page (http://www.ngoconnect.net/ev_en.php?ID=6000_201&ID2=DO_TOPIC) lists resources with information on conducting successful fundraising efforts, practical tools for proposal writing, and links to websites with grant information.

NEW WEBSITE DEVOTED TO AVIAN FLU

CIRAD, the International Cooperation Centre for Agronomical Research and Development, has announced the launch of a new website devoted to avian flu called FluTrop. This website (http://avian-influenza.cirad.fr/flutrop_home) has been designed by experts at CIRAD and contains a wealth of information on the disease organized by topics. There are sections devoted to recent news, upcoming meetings and workshops, recent publications, training materials, ongoing research, maps of outbreaks … and much more.

4. GRANT ANNOUNCEMENTS AND FUNDING OPPORTUNITIES

The following list of grants and other funding opportunities appears monthly. CCIH welcomes information leading to new and varied sources of funding to share with its membership. Please contact Sharon at sfranzen@ccih.org. Please note that the list is now divided between entries that have been newly identified this month and those which have been previously listed. We hope that this will assist you in sifting through the information.

NEW LISTINGS AND UPDATES

OVATIONS CHRONIC DISEASE INTITIATIVE RFP NEW

Estimated Total Program Funding: $15,000,000

Award ceiling: $3,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Initial submission deadline: September 4, 2007

Full proposal deadline: November 19, 2007

Ovations, a health and well-being company, is soliciting proposals for health centers which will be expected to train and develop individuals who will become leaders and be ready to capitalize on the large flow of funds that is likely soon to be available for countering chronic disease in the developing world. Ovations is devoting $15 million in funds and kind over five years to the programme and wants not just to fund centres but also to work with them. Ovations plans to partner with other organisations and raise more funds. It has already partnered with Oxford Health Alliance and the National Institutes of Health.

For further information, go to http://www.oxha.org/memberarea/ovations-chronic-disease-initiative-rfp.

USAID ZIMBABWE RFA: ORPHANS AND OTHER VULNERABLE CHILDREN PROJECT - PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE ONLY NEW

Funding Opportunity Number: 690-07-015

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Closing Date for Application: September 27, 2007

THIS IS A PRE-SOLICITATION NOTICE ONLY. NO APPLICATIONS ARE REQUESTED AT THIS TIME. The United States Agency for International Development in Zimbabwe (USAID/Zimbabwe) plans to issue a Request for Applications (RFA) and award a new five-year bilateral cooperative agreement for orphans and other vulnerable children (OVC) activities. The new project will build on lessons learned through the implementation of the USAID-funded Support to Replicable Innovative Village/Community Level Efforts for Vulnerable Children (STRIVE) Project. The overall goal of the new project is to reduce the vulnerability and improve the well-being of Zimbabwe’s OVC by increasing resources for community-driven efforts.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=15324&mode=VIEW.

APHA-IH SECTION/COLGATE PALMOLIVE AWARD PROGRAM: COMMUNITY-BASED FIELD RESEARCH GRANTS TO YOUNG FACULTY AND STUDENTS AT SCHOOLS OF PUBLIC HEALTH FOR BEHAVIORAL HYGIENE PROMOTION AND GLOBAL HEALTH NEW

Estimated Program Funding: Three grants of $10,000-$15,000

Total funding: $30,000

Funding Instrument type: Research Grant

Application deadline: November 17, 2007

The International Health Section of the American Public Health Association in collaboration with Colgate Palmolive announces this third round of a small grants program to support young faculty and students in schools of public health or tertiary institutions with an established public health program to carry out community-based field research in behavioral hygiene. These competitive grants will be awarded for community- based research projects investigating the role of hygiene (especially hand washing with soap) in personal and community health and infection control, including investigations about the knowledge of proper hygiene habits, hygiene motivation and behavior change. The research should focus on mothers, families and children in resource-poor settings.

Three awards will be made, with preference being given to projects to be carried out in the one the following countries: Puerto Rico, Mexico, Colombia, Guatemala, Honduras, Nicaragua, Costa Rica, Panama, Thailand, Malaysia, South Africa, Senegal, Kenya, and Mozambique or among migrant or immigrant populations in the United States.

A more detailed description of this opportunity can be found at http://www.ccih.org/bulletin/0807files/2007_APHA-IH_ColgatePalmolive_Grant.doc. For further information, please contact Paul Freeman at freeman.p.a@att.net. Proposal guidelines can be obtained from Morgan Taylor at morgan.taylor@apha.org

PREVIOUS LISTINGS

USAID-UKRAINE RFI: SERVICES FOR HIV-AFFECTED CHILDREN IN UKRAINE

Funding Opportunity Number: USAID-UKRAINE-07-002-RFI

Estimated Total Program Funding: $4,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

This is a Notice of Intent to publish a Request for Application (RFA), which is anticipated in late September or October 2007 with an award granted in December 2007. The goal of the project is to continue to reduce the negative impact of HIV/AIDS in Ukraine on HIV-affected, –infected and high-risk children, including orphans, children in HIV-affected families, children born to HIV-positive mothers, children in juvenile detention or other institutions and street children by improving family, health and community services, such as increasing family-based care options, reducing child abandonment and improving access to prevention, treatment, care and support, for these children and their families and caregivers.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=13550&mode=VIEW.

USAID RUSSIA RFA: STRATEGIC HEALTH PARTNERSHIPS INITIATIVE

Funding Opportunity Number: USAID-RUSSIA-H-07-0009-RFA

Estimated Total Program Funding: $3,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Application deadline: September 5, 2007

Building on the success of the 2005 Bratislava Presidential Agreement for HIV/AIDS, the primary objective of this three-year Strategic Health Partnerships Initiative (SHPI) is to expand ongoing partnerships to strengthen U.S./Russia relations in the health sector and bolster U.S. and Russian capacity, working together to address HIV and other infectious diseases.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=14980&mode=VIEW.

NIH FOA: RESEARCH ON PATHWAYS LINKING ENVIRONMENTS, BEHAVIORS AND HIV/AIDS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-07-143 (formerly PAR-06-114)

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Application: Multiple Dates, Next due date is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: October 2, 2008

This announcement seeks to stimulate innovative approaches to understanding the complex mechanisms involved in the spread of HIV and its consequences in a variety of populations across the globe. Research is invited on the interrelationships among, and pathways linking, social, economic, cultural, and institutional environments; prevalence and patterning of individual behaviors related to HIV risk and prevention; and the prevalence, patterning, and spread of HIV infection in a population.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11849&mode=VIEW.

For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2982 (although it is still listed as PAR-06-114.)

HHS PA: DRUG ABUSE, RISKY DECISION MAKING AND HIV/AIDS (RO1)

Funding Opportunity Number: PAS-07-324

Parallel FOAs: PAS-07-325; PAS-07-326

Estimated Total Program Funding: $2,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

This program announcement is intended to stimulate model driven research that will increase understanding of how drugs of abuse or processes of addiction influence decisions about high risk sexual behavior, thereby enhancing vulnerability for acquiring or transmitting HIV. Research supported by this announcement will emphasize interdisciplinary studies that incorporate approaches from psychology, economics, anthropology, sociology, decision sciences, neuroscience and computational modeling.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=12452&mode=VIEW. For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 3276.

NIH FOA: DRUG ABUSE ASPECTS OF HIV/AIDS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-307

Parallel FOAs: PA-07-308; PA-07-309

Estimated Total Program Funding:

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

The purpose of this FOA is to encourage drug abuse research to address the changing dynamics of the HIV/AIDS epidemic in the U.S and Internationally: studies are needed on how to translate and adapt interventions that have proved effective in the U.S. to other communities and international settings and to learn from other conditions and cultures to inform our understanding of the causes, consequences, and differences in HIV-associated risks, morbidity, and mortality in diverse populations.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=12292&mode=VIEW. For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Numbers 3272, 3273, and 3274.

NIH FOA: RECENT HIV INFECTION: NEW PREVENTION CHALLENGES AND OPPORTUNITIES (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-087

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-180 and PA-06-181

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: October 2, 2008

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), the National Institute on Drug Abuse (NIDA), and the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), solicits applications from institutions/organizations that propose innovative basic or applied research that will advance prevention opportunities to reduce transmission risk or minimize neuro-cognitive impairment in persons with recent HIV infection (i.e., 0 - 6 months post-exposure). Project Directors/Principal Investigators are urged to develop new research that extends knowledge of the basic biological processes of acute and early HIV disease to address the specific prevention needs of highly infectious, newly infected persons who may account for a disproportionate share of secondary HIV transmissions.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11635&mode=VIEW.

HHS FOA: MEN’S HETEROSEXUAL BEHAVIOR AND HIV INFECTION (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-147

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-353 (R21), PA-06-354 (R03)

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: multiple deadlines, next deadline is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: February 2, 2008

This Funding Opportunity Announcement calls for basic social and behavioral science studies on the determinants of the sexual behavior of adult heterosexual men. Improved information on their behaviors can suggest ways to increase men's active participation in preventing the spread of HIV infection and provide program designers with information to improve interventions and prevention strategies. Researchers are asked to focus on social and cultural determinants of heterosexual men's sexual behavior. The PA also invites research exploring how gender is interwoven with biology and psychological and social structural factors (including the economic, institutional, and policy contexts) in influencing heterosexual men's behavior.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11862&mode=VIEW (R01), http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=9037&mode=VIEW (R03) and http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=9035&mode=VIEW (R21). For additional

information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple

and search for fund number 3238.

NIH FOA: STRUCTURAL INTERVENTIONS, ALCOHOL USE AND RISK OF HIV/AIDS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-036

Parallel FOAs: PA-07-005 (R21) and PA-07-006 (R03),

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: October 2, 2008

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute on Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), National Institutes of Health, solicits Exploratory/Developmental Research Grant (R21) applications from institutions/ organizations that propose to investigate the effectiveness of structural interventions that reduce the risk of HIV/AIDS transmission by changing the environment of alcohol use. Although a variety of structural and environmental interventions have been employed successfully to reduce other drinking-related problems, there has been little research that extends such efforts into the realm of HIV/AIDS risk reduction.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11591&mode=VIEW (R01), http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=11144 (R21) and http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11147&mode=VIEW (R03).

NIH FOA: RESEARCH ON ALCOHOL AND HIV/AIDS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-028

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: February 10, 2010

This Funding Opportunity Announcement solicits Research Project Grant (R01) applications from institutions/organizations that propose to identify and characterize the role of alcohol, drinking behaviors, and drinking environments in the epidemiology and natural history, pathogenesis, prevention, treatment, and control of HIV/AIDS. The goal is to encourage multidisciplinary, interdisciplinary, and collaborative studies that focus on a range of epidemiologic and intervention issues within HIV and alcohol.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11569&mode=VIEW.

NIH FOA: HIV/AIDS, SEVERE MENTAL ILLNESS AND HOMELESSNESS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-090

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-180 (R03), PA-06-181 (R21), and PAR-06-248 (R34)

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is September 7, 2007

Archive Date: February 2, 2010

The overall focus of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to refocus research on persons with severe mental illness (SMI), either before or after HIV infection, and to expand HIV-related research to homeless persons. This FOA solicits studies on the SMI population and/or homeless persons with special attention to the development, implementation, and evaluation of effective HIV- prevention interventions and their dissemination and adoption in public health service organizations and the community. An important objective of this FOA is to encourage integration both across and within the different research areas by establishing multidisciplinary research teams and collaborative alliances.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11648&mode=VIEW (R01), http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8239&mode=VIEW (R03), http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8240&mode=VIEW (R21) and http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8555&mode=VIEW (R34). For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 3225.

HHS/NIH PA: GLOBAL INFECTIOUS DISEASE RESEARCH TRAINING PROGRAM AWARD

Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-05-128

Estimated Total Program Funding: $600,000 with an award ceiling of $207,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Dates for Applications: September 13, 2007

The purpose of this announcement is to invite applications for U.S. and developing country institutions for programs to provide non-HIV/AIDS infectious disease research training to scientists and health professionals in order to build sustainable research capacity at institutions in low- and middle-income endemic countries. Proposals are requested for innovative, collaborative research training programs that would contribute to the long-term goal of building sustainable research capacity in endemic infectious diseases at developing country institutions.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=3280&mode=VIEW or go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2850.

NIH RFA: U.S.-INDIA BILATERAL COLLABORATIVE RESEARCH PARTNERSHIPS (CRP) ON THE PREVENTION OF HIV/AIDS (R21)

Funding Opportunity Number: RFA-AI-07-031

Estimated Total Program Funding: $3,000,000

Award Ceiling: $200,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Letter of Intent deadline: September 18, 2007
Application deadline: October 18, 2007

This funding announcement solicits Exploratory/Developmental (R21) applications from US-funded institutions with an Indian-institution partner to establish Collaborative Research Partnerships (CRP) in the field of HIV/AIDS prevention with an emphasis on topical microbicides as well as other modes of HIV/AIDS prevention. It is anticipated that $3 million will be available in FY 2008 to fund 8 to 10 new awards.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=14869&mode=VIEW.

INTERNATIONAL SOCIETY FOR INFECTIOUS DISEASES: SMALL GRANTS PROGRAM

Funding Opportunity: up to 5 grants are awarded annually for up to $6000

Closing date for Applications: various, next cycle is October 1, 2007

The Small Grants Program is designed to fund pilot research projects by young investigators in developing countries. The goal is to support and foster the professional development of young individuals in the field of infectious diseases research by helping them to acquire additional skills and data to apply for other grants. Areas of interest include, but are not limited to investigations of the epidemiology, pathophysiology, diagnosis or treatment of infectious diseases, the epidemiology and control of hospital-acquired infections, and modeling of cost effective interventions. Upon completion of the project, a written report of the project must be sent to the Society.

For information, go to the Society website at http://www.isid.org/programs/prog_smgrants.shtml.

USAID KENYA RFA: USAID NUTRITION AND HIV PROGRAM

Funding Opportunity Number: USAID-KENYA-623-A-07-038-RFA

Award Ceiling: $16,000,000

Award Floor: $12,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Application deadline: October 2, 2007

The goal of this project is to support HIV/AIDS programs through nutrition to ensure better outcomes. It is expected that applications will represent partnerships between program management and training organizations with a background in nutrition, and food manufacturing companies with expertise in manufacture of supplemental and therapeutic food products as well as warehousing, storage, quality assurance, and distribution.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=14903&mode=VIEW.

USAID APS: THE PRESIDENT'S EMERGENCY PLAN FOR AIDS RELIEF - NEW PARTNERS INITIATIVE

Funding Opportunity Number: M-OAA-GH-HSR-06-937

Estimated Total Program Funding: $200,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Closing Deadline for Concept Paper Review: October 5, 2007

The NPI is a $200 million allocation under PEPFAR specifically for faith and community based organizations. Eligible organizations are nongovernmental organizations, working in any of the fifteen Emergency Plan focus countries, with little or no experience working with the U.S. Government -- defined as no more than $5 million in U.S. Government funding during the preceding five years, excluding disaster or emergency assistance or funding as a subcontractor. NPI funding is for AIDS prevention and care activities but not for treatment. Concept papers submitted after November 15, 2006 and received by October 5, 2007 will constitute the third and last concept papers and will receive the final and last review under the APS. There shall be no fourth submission of concept papers. Concept papers submitted under the February 15, 2007 deadline, as amended to March 30, 2007, will be retained by USAID until the above new final deadline of October 5, 2007. Due to the change in submission dates, organizations that have already submitted concept papers for the third round of reviews are permitted to withdraw those concept papers and submit updated concept papers if they choose to. In addition, USAID will continue to accept concept papers after March 30, 2007 until the new final deadline of October 5, 2007.

For more information go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8637&mode=VIEW. General information is also available at http://www.pepfarnpi.gov/.

USAID APS: IN SUPPORT OF THE US PRESIDENT’S EMERGENCY PLAN FOR AIDS RELIEF (PEPFAR) IN SOUTH AFRICA

Funding Opportunity Number: 674-07-001-APS

Estimated Total Program Funding: $160,000,000

Award Ceiling: $40,000,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Closing Date for Applications: October 5, 2007

Applications for HIV/AIDS treatment and other related service components will be accepted in the form of a formal concept paper, followed by full proposals for the organizations invited to do so. Agreements will be not less than $3 million and not more than $30 million.

The full announcement is available from USAID Pretoria at http://www.usaid.gov/missions/sa/usaidsa/pepfar67407001.pdf. For further information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11148&mode=VIEW.

NIH FOA: THE INFLUENCE OF RELIGIOSITY AND SPIRITUALITY ON HEALTH RISK BEHAVIORS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-181

Estimated Total Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple dates, next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: August 5, 2009

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of Child Health & Human Development (NICHD), the National Institute of Alcohol Abuse and Alcoholism (NIAAA), and the National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR), National Institutes of Health (NIH), solicits research studies that examine the mechanisms, mediators, and moderators by which religious and spiritual beliefs develop and are transmitted across generations, and whether and how these beliefs influence early sexual behaviors and alcohol or other drug use that may facilitate the transmission of HIV in children and adolescents. The focus of this FOA is on the positive and negative effects of religiosity and spirituality on health risk behaviors in children and adolescents.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11941&mode=VIEW. For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for fund number 3241.

NIH FOA: CHRONIC ILLNESS SELF-MANAGEMENT IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-097

Parallel FOAs: PA-07-098 (R03); PA-07-099 (R21)

Estimated Total Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple dates, next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: February 2, 2010

The purpose of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) is to solicit research to improve self-management and quality of life in children and adolescents with chronic illnesses. Biobehavioral studies of children in the context of family and family-community dynamics are encouraged. Children diagnosed with a chronic illness and their families have a long-term responsibility for self- management. The child with the chronic illness will have a life-long responsibility to maintain and promote health and prevent complications. Research related to biological/ technological factors, as well as, sociocultural, environmental, and behavioral mechanisms that contribute to successful and ongoing self-management of chronic illnesses in children is also encouraged. This FOA is restricted to studies of chronic illnesses in children and adolescents ages 8 to 21.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11716&mode=VIEW (R01), http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11707&mode=VIEW(R03), and http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11710&mode=VIEW (R21). For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for fund number 3229.

NIH PA: UNDERSTANDING MECHANISMS OF HEALTH RISK BEHAVIOR CHANGE IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-148

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-298 (R21)

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates; next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: August 5, 2007

This program announcement invites research grant applications that will enhance understanding of the factors and mechanisms that determine changes in health risk behaviors during childhood and adolescence. Interdisciplinary research is sought to explore the biological, genetic, physiological, psychological, and social/environmental factors and mechanisms that influence health risk behavior change in children and adolescents.-The concept of health risk behavior change is used in this program announcement to encompass the evolution of specific health impairing behaviors. Of particular interest are factors and processes that influence the initiation, continuation, and/or cessation of one or more of the following health risk behaviors: (1) substance abuse, (2) inadequate exercise and poor dietary practices as they relate to being overweight or obese, and (3) intentional and unintentional injuries.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11863&mode=VIEW and http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8771&mode=VIEW. For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for fund number 3239.

NIH FOA: CLINICAL RESEARCH ON MENTAL ILLNESS IN OLDER ADULTS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-163

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-180, PA-06-181, and PA-06-248

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: April 5, 2009

The purpose of this Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), is to invite grant applications for clinical research that will reduce the burden of mental illnesses on older adults. The NIMH has a long-standing commitment to studying mental illnesses in older individuals. The intent of this FOA is to intensify investigator-initiated research in this area, to attract new investigators to the field, and to enhance interdisciplinary approaches to research.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11907&mode=VIEW.

NIH FOA: EARLY IDENTIFICATION AND TREATMENT OF MENTAL DISORDERS IN CHILDREN AND ADOLESCENTS (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-158

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-180, PA-06-181, and PAR-06-248

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: April 5, 2009

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) issued by the National Institute of Mental Health (NIMH), National Institutes of Health (NIH), invites investigator-initiated research grant applications for studies focused on the early identification and treatment of mental disorders in children and adolescents. Assessment methods may include behavioral, neuropsychological, neuroimaging, and other physiological measures or markers. Intervention strategies to be studied may include pharmacological, psychosocial, and rehabilitative interventions, separately or in combination.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11895&mode=VIEW.

NIH FOA: BEHAVIORAL AND SOCIAL RESEARCH ON DISASTERS AND HEALTH (R01)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-07-141

Parallel FOAs: PA-06-453, PA-06-452

Estimated Total Program Funding: varies

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple Dates, next deadline is October 5, 2007

Archive Date: June 1, 2009

This Funding Opportunity Announcement (FOA) seeks to stimulate research in the behavioral and social sciences on the consequences of natural and man-made disasters for the health of children, the elderly and vulnerable groups, with an ultimate goal of preventing or mitigating harmful consequences. Examples of disasters include severe weather-related events, earthquakes, large-scale attacks on civilian populations, technological catastrophes or perceived catastrophes, and influenza pandemics. Three National Institutes of Health (NIH) Institutes are sponsoring this FOA: the National Institute on Aging, the National Institute of Child Health and Human Development and the National Institute of Nursing Research.

For more information go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=11844&mode=VIEW.

HHS FOA: DECISION MAKING IN HEALTH: BEHAVIOR MAINTENANCE (R21)

Funding Opportunity Number: PA-06-337

Estimated Award Ceiling: $200,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: Multiple dates, next deadline is October 16, 2007

Archive Date: February 2, 2008

The purpose of this initiative is to invite applications for research projects that will expand our knowledge of basic decision-making processes underlying initiation and long-term maintenance of healthy lifestyle behaviors that may reduce one's risk of cancer and other chronic diseases, such as cardiovascular disease, diabetes, and addiction. Collaborations are encouraged between basic judgment and decision-making researchers, and applied cancer control or addiction researchers that will elucidate the basic cognitive and affective processes involved in decisions that are made repeatedly over time, such as adhering to weight-loss programs or smoking cessation programs.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=8934&mode=VIEW. For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for fund number 3122.

HHS PA: AIDS INTERNATIONAL TRAINING AND RESEARCH PROGRAM

Funding Number: PAR-05-140

Estimated Total Program Funding: $5,600,000.00

Closing Date for Letter of Intent: November 21, 2007

Closing Date for Applications: December 21, 2007

The purpose of this announcement is to invite applications from eligible institutions for innovative, collaborative training programs that would contribute to the long-term goal of building sustainable research capacity in HIV/AIDS and HIV-related conditions at institutions with which they have ongoing research collaborations, in low- and middle-income countries. These research-training programs will strengthen scientific knowledge and skills to enhance prevention of, and treatment and care for, HIV/AIDS and HIV-related conditions in these countries.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=3286&mode=VIEW; For more information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2862.

JOHN M. LLOYD FOUNDATION

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2108

Fund Category: HIV/AIDS

Maximum Funding Available: $20,000

Closing Date for Next Cycle: December 15, 2007

The Foundation supports enlightened public policy programs that advocate for improved access to HIV/AIDS care and services, relevant research efforts, effective prevention programs, and successful education initiatives worldwide. The Foundation also funds pioneering programs that promote education, awareness, and compassion about HIV/AIDS worldwide; novel HIV prevention efforts aimed at men, women, and children worldwide; and medical research that focuses on the prevention

and treatment of HIV/AIDS. Recognizing however that resources are limited compared to the scope of research efforts in HIV/AIDS, the Foundation gives preference to seed grants and small workshops that stimulate new directions for research.

For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2108.

HHS/NIH RFA: PLANNING GRANTS FOR INTERNATIONAL MALARIA CLINICAL, OPERATIONAL AND HEALTH SERVICES RESEARCH TRAINING PROGRAMS (D71)

Funding Opportunity Number: PAR-06-070

Estimated Total Program Funding: $150,000 with an award ceiling of $23,000

Funding Instrument type: Grant

Closing Date for Applications: January 14, 2008

Archive Date: January 13, 2009

This is an invitation for planning grant applications for malaria research training programs in clinical, operational and public health services for clinical, public health and social scientists and health care professionals in the countries targeted by the President’s Malaria Initiative (PMI). The Fogarty International Center expects to provide a total of $75,000 to $150,000 total costs (direct and F & A) per year to fund three to six new planning grant awards each year FY06-FY08.

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?mode=VIEW&oppId=3316.

USAID APS: GENDER-BASED VIOLENCE

Funding Opportunity Number: M-OAA-EGAT-WID-07-248

Award Ceiling: $500,000

Award Floor: $300,000

Funding Instrument type: Cooperative Agreement

Application Deadline: June 12, 2008

The United States Government, through USAID, is seeking full applications from prospective partners to implement activities in support of creative and timely responses to encourage the abandonment of traditional practices that promote and condone gender-based violence. USAID is specifically interested in those traditional harmful practices that have received limited attention from the development community. The geographic focus under consideration is USAID’s geographic definitions of Africa and Asia & the Near East (ANE).

For more information, go to http://www.grants.gov/search/search.do?oppId=14451&mode=VIEW.

PUBLIC WELFARE FOUNDATION: FUNDING PRIORITIES

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2212

Closing Date for Applications: No deadline

The Foundation is most interested in organizations that address human needs, and take a particular interest in efforts that combine elements of service, advocacy and empowerment in their approach: service that solves specific problems; advocacy to address those needs in a more systemic way; and work to empower people in need so they play leading roles in achieving those remedies.
The Foundation is willing to take risks to help organizations with a sound idea, a reasonable plan for carrying it out, and a strong base in and commitment to their communities. While most of the grants are made to organizations in the United States, the Foundation has always had no geographic restrictions and has increased its efforts to work directly with organizations in other countries. The application process at the Public Welfare Foundation begins with a letter of inquiry and is followed by a request for proposals.

For more information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2212.

ELTON JOHN AIDS FOUNDATION

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2252

Fund category: HIV/AIDS

Closing Date for Applications: There is no deadline

The mission of the Elton John AIDS Foundation is to provide funding for educational programs targeted at HIV/AIDS prevention and/or the elimination of prejudice and discrimination against HIV/AIDS-affected individuals, and for programs that provide services to people living with or at risk for HIV/AIDS. The Foundation funds nonprofit organizations providing direct care for persons with HIV/AIDS or prevention education programs directed towards persons practicing high risk behavior.

For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2252.

W.K. KELLOGG FOUNDATION

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2924

Fund Category: Other health-related

Closing Date for Applications: There is no deadline

The W.K. Kellogg Foundation is a nonprofit organization whose mission is to apply knowledge to solve the problems of people. Its founder W.K. Kellogg, the cereal industry pioneer, established the Foundation in 1930. Since its beginning the Foundation has continuously focused on building the capacity of individuals, communities, and institutions to solve their own problems. Grants are made in the four areas of: Health, Food Systems and Rural Development, Youth and Education, and Philanthropy and Volunteerism. Most grants are awarded in the United States, Latin America and the Caribbean, and seven southern Africa countries including Botswana, Lesotho, Malawi, Mozambique, South Africa, Swaziland, and Zimbabwe.

For more information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2924 or go to the Kellogg website at http://www.wkkf.org/Grants/.

MAC AIDS FUND: GLOBAL FOUNDATION GRANTS

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2228

Fund category: HIV/AIDS

Closing Date for Applications: Application dates are open ended; see below

The MAC AIDS Fund encourages charitable, non-profit organizations to submit applications now for funding in a number of HIV/AIDS related program areas. Typically the Fund supports organizations that provide basic needs, direct services, education, awareness and prevention programs to men, women and children affected by HIV/AIDS. Proposals need to be received at least three weeks prior to quarterly board meetings, usually held in March, June, September, and December.

For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2228.

MILAGRO FOUNDATION

Funding Opportunity Number: CDC 2739

Fund Category: Other health-related

Estimated Total Program Funding: $2500 - $5000

Closing Date for Applications: There is no final deadline; see below

Milagro is a charitable foundation that supports children and youth in three areas: helping them to live healthy lives through education and prevention of disease; helping them live literate lives through learning; and helping them live culturally enriched lives through arts education. Grants are awarded to community-based, grass-roots organizations that work with children and youth, especially those at risk and disadvantaged due to factors as poor health, illiteracy or insufficient educational and cultural opportunities. There is no application deadline. The Board makes decisions on grants in February, June and October. Grant deadlines are usually at least two months prior to meetings.

For additional information, go to http://www.cdcnpin.org/scripts/locates/LocateFund.asp?SearchType=Simple and search for Fund Number 2739.

Last Updated: Tuesday, September 4, 2007