Creative praises renewal of key U.S. program to assist countries in transition

WASHINGTON, Feb. 14, 2014 /PRNewswire-USNewswire/ -- Creative Associates International applauds the renewal of an effective U.S. initiative that supports countries as they transition out of conflict, political crises, or natural disasters by providing focused, short-term assistance that contributes to long term stability.

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Called Support Which Implements Fast Transition IV (SWIFT), Creative will support U.S. government initiatives that aid countries-in-transition with rapid-response, pragmatic programs that promote democracy, responsive government institutions and inclusion of diverse communities.

Creative is one of nine U.S. global development organizations selected through a highly competitive process to support the U.S. Agency for International Development's Office of Transitions Initiative (OTI) five-year SWIFT program.

"We applaud USAID's commitment to bring peace and stability to countries in crisis," says Charito Kruvant, President & CEO of Creative. "We are honored to be part of the process. Our expertise in conflict and post-conflict situations will be of great value to communities as they work to rebuild and create a better future."

Creative, which was renewed as a SWIFT partner, is currently implementing projects through this initiative in Pakistan, Afghanistan and Honduras.

Tom Wheelock, Creative's Vice President & Senior Director, oversees Creative's work on SWIFT, as well as other initiatives related to transitioning countries from crisis to stability.

"We are pleased that our work to date and our proposal for future SWIFT interventions resulted in this renewed partnership," says Wheelock. "We are committed to working with the skilled professionals at OTI around the world to support US foreign policy objectives in difficult – and sometimes hostile - operating environments."

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Since 1994, OTI has laid the foundation for long-term development in more than 55 conflict-prone countries, USAID reports. Its programs promote reconciliation, jumpstarting local economies, supporting emerging independent media and fostering peace and democracy through innovative programming, such as SWIFT.

Nealin Parker, Acting Director of USAID's Office of Transition Initiatives, said in a Feb. 12 press release, "SWIFT partners are critical to the success of USAID's programs in transitioning countries. They are expected to overcome significant challenges posed by conflict affected areas or otherwise unstable transition countries where USAID's operates."

Since SWIFT's start in 1994, partners have implemented more than 25,000 activities in 40 countries, USAID reports.

Creative has been working with the Office of Transition Initiatives for 18 years on SWIFT and other endeavors.

About Creative

Creative works with underserved communities by sharing expertise and experience in education, economic growth, governance and transitions from conflict to peace. Creative is the second-largest company owned by women that works with the U.S. government.

Based in Washington, D.C., Creative currently has projects in more than 15 countries. Since 1977, it has worked in 85 countries and on nearly every continent. Recognized for its ability to work rapidly, flexibly and effectively in conflictive environments, Creative is committed to generating long-term sustainable solutions to complex development problems.

For additional information, please visit: www.CreativeAssociatesInternational.com.

SOURCE Creative Associates International