It is now doubling the number of new loans given, currently 1,000 per year. At the same time, staff are promoting the replication of the small loans and savings programs that do not rely on AFSC start-up funds. Monthly meetings are held by borrowers on loan repayment days to exchange information and ideas. Staff provide gender awareness training for villagers and local officials. QSV aids schools and supports the training of ethnic minority teachers in remote areas.
Scholarships help children attend boarding schools after completing village primary schools.
The Emergency Relief project provides specially raised funds to rebuild dikes, replant fields, and improve water control and drainage in response to severe storms and floods. For many years, Vietnamese scholars, researchers, and leaders were isolated from western development in the areas of politics, finance, health, environment, and economics. In addition, large quantities of unexploded military ordnance litter areas where fighting was intense, and there are signs that damage to people from Agent Orange persists in some areas. AFSC staff work toward resolution of issues remaining from the war and Vietnam's transition to full and active membership in the world community. Staff offer help in facilitating communication, gathering information, organizing meetings and exchanges, and securing financing for activities.