Resources

CRS’ delivery model rethinks the approach to agents who form SILC groups, by preparing agents to become independent service providers operating on a market-led basis. Community-based agents are initially identified, trained, supervised and compensated by implementing organizations for up to one year, as would be the case under a traditional, donor-driven delivery model. After one year, agents undergo an examination process that assesses their productivity, the quality of their groups, member satisfaction with their services, and their technical skills and motivation. If successful, agents are certified as PSPs and offer their training and support services to communities, at a fee, since they are no longer supported financially by the project. A combination of financial and social/personal incentives drives PSPs to continue forming and supporting groups. PSPs operating in the same area constitute an informal network of agents, for coordination, quality control and mutual support. In cases where demand for SILC services exceeds PSP capacity, PSPs may recruit apprentices to supplement their work. The network then takes responsibility for certifying the apprentices as PSPs.