SAWSO
From Sawiki
The USA National Headquarters launched its Salvation Army World Service Office (SAWSO) in 1977, with Major (later Colonel) Ernest A. Miller as the first director (1977-1981), in order to find long term solutions to poverty in less developed countries where the Army is active. Since then, SAWSO's successive directors Mr. John Wiggins (1981-1984), Admiral Dean Seiler, United States Navy, Retired (1984-1994), Major Harden White (1994-2005) and Lt. Colonel Daniel Starrett (2006-) have maintained the original aim of SAWSO to help people help themselves through programs that improve living conditions, raise skill levels, increase productivity and instill self-confidence. This mandate has been carried out and enhanced by close cooperation with the International Planning and Development Department, which was established at International Headquarters in 1978.
With more than 25 years' experience working around the globe, SAWSO has learned that community participation is critical if solutions are to be effective and enduring. In carrying out its programs, SAWSO's small staff located at USA National Headquarters in Alexandria, Virginia works through The Salvation Army's international network of personnel and facilities. At present there are 50,000 indigenous Army officers, employees and professional staff working in developing countries. SAWSO assists these persons and local leaders to identify the root causes of their problems, formulate solutions, and develop the skills necessary to plan and sustain programs in their communities. In addition to specific program area training, SAWSO provides training in project planning and management, leadership and community development.
SAWSO also helps to provide material assistance, such as food and clothing, in the immediate aftermath of a disaster. In an effort to move these communities from relief to development, SAWSO promotes and supports longer term assistance, such as health services and income generation projects for those affected by disasters.
Since its inception, SAWSO has channeled more than $100 million in goods and services obtained through donations, contributions and government grants to developing countries around the world. These operations are directed by a board of trustees composed of senior leaders of The Salvation Army in the United States.
