Community based organizations (CBOs) in Vietnam play an essential role in delivering HIV services, but they lack the skills to effectively promote these services to key populations and/or need support to eloquently advocate for resources. On August 2, USAID’s Enhanced Community HIV Link-Southern project trained 30 CBO representatives on communication and advocacy, including the use of film and storyboard development that incorporates success stories developed by CBO outreach workers.

So What? USAID is progressively building local capacity while building self-reliance for Vietnam’s HIV response to local stakeholders. With enhanced communication and advocacy skills, CBOs will not only reach their target audience but also gain government, donor and community support.