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What Problems Do Churches
Find When They Work with International Organizations?
1) Some international organizations
work only on projects that spend US$ 10,000-50,000 a year.
If you are planning a smaller project, look for another organization that
helps small projects.
2) Some international organizations
may not allow you the freedom to plan the details of your own program.
Look carefully at what they want you to do. It may be a good idea after
all. If it seems wrong or irrelevant for your community at this time, explain
that in a letter. If you still can't agree, look for another organization
that shares your philosophy and priorities.
3) Some organizations have
staff members who think that all religious groups are narrow-minded.
They fear that you will serve only church members, that you are opposed
to family planning, or that you do only evangelism and don't know much
about health work. You will have to show them otherwise.
4) Some international organizations
require reports, accounting and auditing procedures that may seem inappropriate
or overwhelming. Today, the trend is toward more "accountability".
People who give money want to know exactly how it is spent. If your organization
already uses careful detailed accounting procedures, fine. If you feel
you need to improve, this may be a good opportunity to ask an organization
for some expert help.
Sometimes, though, the required procedures are just not
appropriate for the situation. For example, illiterate business people
or craftsmen cannot provide written documents and may be reluctant to sign
receipts. You may not have a photocopy machine to produce copies of documents.
Try to explain the problems to the international agency, offer alternative
suggestions, and ask them to be reasonable about their requirements.
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