Circle of Health International

Circle of Health International (COHI) is a United States-based non-governmental organization founded in 2004. Its mission is centered on supporting vulnerable women, children, and refugees during times of crisis by enhancing comprehensive women's health globally[1][2].

Mission and Activities

COHI focuses primarily on maternal and neonatal health, partnering with local organizations to provide quality healthcare services. The organization empowers women's health care providers in crisis settings through collaborations with small, grassroots women's organizations, offering technical assistance and clinical skills to enhance organizational capacity[2][3].

COHI engages in various activities, including assessments, monitoring and evaluation, and ethnographic research initiatives to improve the quality, access, and effectiveness of health services[2]. They also support local partners financially to encourage their independence and sustainability[2].

Geographic Reach

COHI has operated in numerous countries and regions, including the United States, Sri Lanka, Tibet, Sudan, Tanzania, Afghanistan, Israel, Haiti, Syria, Jordan, the Philippines, Nicaragua, Nepal, Sierra Leone, and Turkey[1]. Notably, COHI has been involved in initiatives such as midwife training programs in Tibet and collaborative projects between Israeli and Palestinian women to address midwifery and gender-based violence[1][3].

Partnerships and Funding

COHI is affiliated with several organizations, including Catholic Charities, Boston University, Harvard University, and the American Refugee Committee[1]. They are also a member of the Alliance for Middle East Peace[3]. COHI has received significant funding, such as the Positive Action Challenge Grant from the United Nations in 2016[1].

Social Impact and Programs

Beyond healthcare, COHI engages in social enterprise initiatives like the COHI Cloth Network, aimed at addressing women's poverty[1]. This approach underscores COHI's commitment to empowering women in leadership roles within their partner communities, supporting goals of peace, health, and security[2].