A Conversation With Vicki Escarra, Global CEO of Opportunity International
Forbes recently interviewed Vicki Escarra, the Global CEO of Opportunity International, which “provides small business loans, savings, insurance and training to more than 5 million people working their way out of poverty in the developing world.” Escarra talks about some of the challenges and opportunities the organization has faced while empowering entrepreneurs across the continent, including the powerful influence of education, the obstacles to breaking ground on unprecedented programs, where she envisions the nonprofit in five years.
Compassion International Uganda Celebrating 35 Years of Supporting Needy Children
Compassion International Uganda is celebrating its 35th anniversary this year, having served 147,591 children since the global organization’s expansion into the country in 1980. Today, Compassion International Uganda works with 341 churches that “identify children who are most in need, find them sponsors and equip them with the knowledge and skills they need to live a fulfilling life,” program manager Faith Ojambo says. The organization also provides medical assistance, homes, and income-generating activities for people in the areas in which it serves, New Vision reports.
ChildFund Campaign Uses Virtual Reality
ChildFund International is inspiring potential donors and encouraging supporters with a new short film that uses virtual reality to immerse the viewer in the experience. The movie, titled “The Return,” is the story of a woman named Annapoorna who was sponsored by ChildFund growing up and is now a teacher in rural India, the Richmond Times-Dispatch reports. The film was shot in June using cameras and techniques that can provide a 360-degree view when seen via virtual reality goggles, but can also be viewed traditionally online. ChildFund hopes the video allows people to connect on a deeper level with what the organization is actually doing in the field.
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship Affirms a National Stance Against Same-Sex Marriage
InterVarsity Christian Fellowship has officially taken a national stance against same-sex marriage that will be put into effect Nov. 11, 2016. Staff members will be given 18 months to assess their own personal feelings toward the statement, and if they do not agree, they are being asked to come forward and resign. Student members will not be required to share the organization’s beliefs. InterVarsity has more than 1300 staff members at more than 667 colleges across the U.S., the McDaniel Free Press writes.
The Fellowship of Christian Athletes Names Shane Williamson as President and CEO
Shane Williamson has been tapped as the new president and CEO of the Fellowship of Christian Athletes (FCA) by its National Board of Trustees. Williamson, currently FCA’s Executive Director of Field Ministry, will assume the role Jan. 1, 2017. He has been involved with FCA for 24 years and succeeds Les Steckel, who will retire at the end of the year after 12 years in the position. Williamson has also served as FCA’s Vice President of Field Ministry for the Carolinas, Multi-Area Director for Metro Atlanta, and the Area Director for Upstate South Carolina, according to Christian News Wire.
