The United States based Somali Family Services here after referred to as “SFS” is a non‐profit organization headquartered in Minneapolis, Minnesota registered under Federal Act 501(C3) and a leading Somali capacity enhancement entity, locally registered with the Ministry of Planning and Local Government in Garowe, Puntland. SFS also has an established regional support office in Nairobi, Kenya that coordinates the Somali Family Services International Program (IP). SFS was established in 2003 to serve Somali immigrants, their families and descendants in Minnesota and to improve the overall quality of life for Somali populations.
Somali Family Services (SFS) through local and international partnerships, supports Somali capacity building and development initiatives in Democratic Governance and sustainable livelihoods, Project Monitoring and Evaluation, Project Financial Management, ICT in Education and promotion of interaction and exchange of knowledge, ideas and resources including peace and conflict management and promotion of Somali socio‐cultural awareness. SFS International Programme is intended to enhance and support civil society organizations, government institutions, educational institutions, Local NGOs, health institutions, and humanitarian efforts in Somalia. SFS International Programme has access to operate throughout Somalia with its geographical focus in Puntland where past activities have been carried out.
SFS mandate includes, provision of technical services for districts and regional administrations, central institutions, civil society organizations, Local NGOs and donor partners. We collaborate with our local, regional and international partners, to enhance capacities and provide training services in accountability, transparency, participatory planning and budgeting, participatory governance, gender and human rights, organizational development, leadership, public relations, financial management, human resource management, Project Monitoring and Evaluation, e‐ learning, public procurement and contract management, public sector reform, audit, monitoring and evaluation, report writing, computer training, office administration and automation, communication, public relation and community resource center, conflict management and peace building. SFS also has abilities to tailor‐make, design and develop training programs according to the needs including delivery of the training programs in‐country or regionally given the unique challenging situation in Somalia.
MOTTO: ‘WE STRIFE FOR SUSTAINABLE COMMON FUTURE’
MISSION: Somali Family Services envisions a peaceful, democratic Somalia in which all citizens have a meaningful voice in their government and the opportunity to thrive. It is committed to fostering peace and democratic institutions through its support for civil society, youth, women and other marginalized groups. SFS provides the space for and facilitates dialogue among Somalis of all backgrounds, building bridges and trust between different communities and stakeholders.
CORE VALUES
Integrity
Promoting the dignity of Somali people based on the principles of human rights, social justice, democracy, development and sustainability.
Innovation
Exploring new ideas and developing workable approaches to benefit Somali communities.
Effectiveness & Responsiveness
Using resources in a conscientious and transparent manner, according to the needs of Somalis.
Inclusiveness
Embracing impartiality and diversity, and working with Somalis of all clans and backgrounds.
Engagement
Uniting with national and international communities to build an equitable and sustainable future.
Key Documents
The Leadership and Policy Institute Strategic Plan [2014 – 2018]
Media & Peacebuilding Instiute Strategic Plan [2014 – 2018]
Education & Skill Development Instiute Strategic Plan [2014 – 2018]
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Partners
- Adventist Development and Relief Agency
- Books For Africa
- Counterpart International
- Diakonia, Sweden
- Education Development Center
- International Labour Organization
- National Endowment for Democracy
- State of Minnesota Department of Human Services
- UN Political Office for Somalia
- United Nations High Commissioner for Refugees
- United Nations Population Fund
- World Movement for Democracy