HELP Commission Report
I’m remiss in not making sure that you’re aware of the HELP Commission Report that was released last month.  The HELP Commission (Helping to Enhance the Livelihood of People Around the Globe Commission) was commissioned by the US Government to study all US Foreign development assistance.  It’s report, titled “Beyond Assistance” outlines its findings and recommendations.  Ben Homan, CEO of Food for the Hungry, was a member of the commission.  See the final report at:  http://helpcommission.gov/

Global Development Alliance
USAID’s Global Development Alliance (GDA) has released its 2008 Annual Program Statement (APS).  The GDA works to create partnerships between the US Government and private donors to create new alliances for foreign assistance.  They have done some very good work with faith-based organizations who bring a cost-share from the private sector.  For more information or to read the APS, go to:  http://www.usaid.gov/our_work/global_partnerships/gda/

“Durability” of the President’s Faith-Based Initiative
The Roundtable on Religion and Social Welfare Policy has released a fascinating article on the current direction of the Faith-Based and Community Initiative (FBCI).  It highlights the efforts to protect organizations’ right to hire people of a similar faith as well as the new direction that White House FBCI director Jay Hein is taking the Initiative.  Read the article at:  http://www.religionandsocialpolicy.org/news/article.cfm?id=7551

White House Internships
The White House is taking applications for interns for Summer and Fall 2008.  Some of these positions would possibly be in areas that touch international affairs.  If you would like to have the flyer and application, please let me know and I’ll email them to you.