The reason for transition from GLAD to PCDA:
Closer connections to local communities, we want to work more directly with local communities and see the real impact of our work on the ground. Greater ownership and leadership opportunities. Strengthening local capacity and sustainability, we believe in impowering local organizations to build long-term sustainability in development work.
What is the mission of PCDA and how does PCDA pursue it?
Guided by our vision of a culturally rich and sustainably prosperous Lao society, PCDA works hand in hand with communities, government, and international partners to implement inclusive rural development programs in accordance with the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
What makes PCDA special?
PCDA focuses on realizing sustainable development projects at the community level. We are a fully Lao team with many years of experience in project implementation and financial management. Our extensive network includes highly informed, culturally knowledgeable professionals and institutions internationally and nationally, not least in our target communities where our local employees maintain close communication.
How can I stay updated on PCDA’s work?
We are delighted that you would like to learn more about our work! For regular updates on our upcoming projects, we would be glad to have you follow PCDA on Facebook . For news on the pending projects we are still completing under the name GLAD, please follow GLAD on Facebook. Moreover, we are happy to share current stories, background information, behind-the-scenes insights, and progress reports on our work with you in our biannual newsletter.
What types of projects does PCDA implement?
In close collaboration with our partners and local communities, we design and deliver projects to achieve a variety of Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs). Our aim is to build lasting resilience by improving early childhood education, empowering women, fostering local entrepreneurship through vocational and financial literacy training for youth, and more.
How does PCDA support and monitor the projects’ impact during the implementation process?
We combine hands-on presence with regular evaluation to make sure our projects deliver the intended results. Our team on the ground upholds communication with target communities and government stakeholders, creating a continuous feedback loop that allows us to address challenges as needed. In addition, we commission periodic evaluations against the OECD DAC criteria or the format that best suits our donors. Furthermore, in accordance with the agreement, an additional evaluation may be conducted by external parties. All monitoring is shared in regular and transparent reports with our partners.
How does PCDA adapt its projects to local culture and customs?
With a highly experienced team and several offices throughout Laos, we maintain close contact with the communities we work with. We engage them from the very start of planning to ensure each initiative reflects local needs, culture and priorities. Because we’re on the ground, we can stay in constant exchange throughout implementation, using feedback loops to adjust activities as circumstances change.
How does PCDA finance its projects?
We work with various donors to implement our projects, many of whom we have been working with for years.
How does PCDA ensure transparency in its operations?
Project implementation is jointly managed by committees representing both the PCDA and government side, with biannual stakeholder meetings serving as a platform to assess progress, resolve challenges, and maintain strategic alignment. These sessions foster ongoing dialogue and transparency across different stakeholder levels. We also provide our partners with regular business reports of the latest developments. In general, we assess progress against the OECD DAC criteria, but we are flexible to adapt to the guidelines and requirements of our partners. To ensure the reliability and credibility of our results, we offer the option of triangulating findings through external evaluators. Of course, we are also available to answer any questions you may have.
Who can support PCDA?
We are currently able to accept projects and financial support from national and international organizations.
Are there other ways to support PCDA besides money?
PCDA is always open to opportunities for further development and growth. We warmly welcome any new ideas, insights, or experiences related to community development. Contributions that offer fresh perspectives or practical lessons are especially valuable and appreciated. Besides that, if you have skills that you would like to contribute to our mission—particularly, but not limited to, in the areas of AI or website maintenance—please feel free to reach out to us.
Can I volunteer with PCDA in Laos?
We would be happy to have you involved. Simply get in touch with us so that we can discuss how we could work together.
Do partners need staff on the ground?
Since PCDA has a large network of various local business partners and staff implementing the projects, it is not necessary for partners to have their own staff on site.
Can partners visit the project site in Laos?
Yes, supporters are welcome to come and see the progress of their project on site.
Can I donate to specific regions or projects?
We are glad that you would like to support our cause. Do not hesitate to contact us so we can discuss the details together. If your organization is planning to implement a project within Laos, please note that we primarily implement projects in rural regions that are aligned with our pursued Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) .
Do my contributions continue to support the same projects after the transition from GLAD to PCDA?
Yes, nothing is changing for you as a donor. Your project funds continue to be used as you have planned and agreed with us in order to achieve the greatest possible impact.