What is the difference between Diaconia-ECCB and Diaconia-Center of Relief and Development (Diaconia-CRD)?
Diaconia-CRD is a branch of the social service agency, Diaconia-ECCB. Diaconia ECCB is our “mother” organization. Diaconia-CRD in once of 34 Diaconia-ECCB centers. Our center specializes in global development and aid work.
What makes Diaconia-CRD unique?
We are unique due to our history, size, and vision. Our staff is known for their ability to relate to individuals on the ground, their attention to detail, and their language skills. We are a Central/Eastern European organization with expertise in implementing aid projects in former communist countries. We believe that small congregations and individuals can act in large ways to improve our world.
Does Diaconia-CRD only work with religious organizations?
No. We have a diverse group of partner organizations. While our heritage is rooted in the progressive and accepting theology of the Czech Brethren of the Christian faith, we work with any organization that shares our values and aligns with our mission. We also work with any individual regardless of race, religion, sexual orientation, ethnicity, or culture.
How did Diaconia-CRD come to establish an office in Milwaukee, Wisconsin?
We realize that global problems are solved through global partnerships and so we are using international perspectives and funds to tackle some of the most pressing issues we face today. We established our office in Milwaukee to create cross-cultural partnerships between Czechs, Americans, and like-minded partner organizations. By working together, we can design and implement more effective models to create greater change on the ground. Our office in the United States fundraises for our projects, offers educational services, develops partnerships with other American organizations and congregations, and advocates for vulnerable people around the world.
I see that Diaconia-CRD is a member of ACT ALLIANCE. What is ACT ALLIANCE?
ACT Alliance is a coalition of more than 140 churches and affiliated organizations working together in over 140 countries to create positive and sustainable change in the lives of poor and marginalized people regardless of their religion, politics, gender, sexual orientation, race or nationality in keeping with the highest international codes and standards. Members are associated with the World Council of Churches or the Lutheran World Federation.
How does Diaconia-CRD choose its International Partners?
All of our in-country partners are well-established nonprofit organizations that have proven results in project design and implementation. Diaconia-CRD chooses in-country partners through an extensive evaluation process that takes into account these factors: (1) the type of project being proposed, (2) the location of the project, (3) Diaconia-CRD’s own expertise, (4) the in-country organization’s history, and (5) recommendations from our Act Alliance partners.
How do you evaluate your projects on-the-ground?
Our project staff is in weekly contact with our in-country partner organizations, mainly through Skype and email. Project coordinators are expected to make in-country visits at least twice a year and our Executive Director visits each site once every two years. All accounting practices are audited by an internationally-licensed accountant.
How is Diaconia-CRD funded?
Currently, these are our three main sources of funding:
It is important for us to continue to work on a personal level with individual donors and are currently working to diversify our funding base.
How can I help?
There are many ways to help! You can make a donation to help us expand our work abroad. However, money isn’t the only way to make a difference. Volunteering with us; inviting us to speak and give educational talks to mission committees, congregations, or friend groups; and organizing prayer groups are a few examples of excellent ways to get involved. Additionally, you can help us by simply living a life that is cognizant of our global neighbors and caring about the well being of our entire world. Talk to your friends about the issues, be educated about international events, and always take a stand against injustice when you see it in the community!
How do I stay informed about the work Diaconia-CRD is doing?
The best way to stay informed about our work is to sign-up for our monthly e-newsletter. To do so, you can either email us at jeremy.ault@diakonie.cz, or click the “sign-up” button at the bottom of this webpage. Also, you can regularly check this website. And, if you feel motivated, we encourage you to call us and talk to us directly!
How do I make a donation?
There are three ways you can make a donation. All of them are tax deductible. You can donate to us through Presbyterian Foundation USA (online), or you can send checks to First Presbyterian Church of St. Paul, Nebraska, or to Heartland Alliance International. These are our partner organizations and they control bank accounts on our behalf. Please see our Donate page for all the details. It’s easy!
Do you accept employer matching gifts?
Yes. We accept employer matching gifts and would love to accept more! Employers can donate following the instructions above.
How are my contributions spent?
Contributions support our projects abroad and also help to cover administrative costs. 5% of individual donations goes towards offsetting our administrative costs (salary, staffing, and materials). The rest is sent directly to our project partners on the ground, who use the funds to enhance their projects and improve their own capacity. We send regular updates to donors and are able to track all donated funds. Donors can specify what projects they want to donate to or can make a general donation.
Is my contribution tax-deductible?
Yes. Heartland Alliance International, our fiscal sponsor, is a 501c3 nonprofit, so donations made through them are tax deductible. If you choose to donate to Diaconia through the Presbyterian Foundation USA or The First Presbyterian Church of St. Paul, your donation is also tax deductible, as both are religious organizations.
How do I get a tax receipt for my donation?
After receiving your donation, we will send you a thank-letter, acknowledging the amount of the donation and a 501c3 number if necessary. This letter will serve as your tax receipt.