Healing and recovery for torture survivors.

Over the years, the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID) assisted in the treatment and rehabilitation of torture survivors by supporting direct services for victims, their families and communities throughout the world. Implemented by the Center for Victims of Torture, Helping Survivors Heal (HSH) was a $17 million capacity development project serving twelve torture rehabilitation organizations in Asia, Africa, Latin America, and the Middle East.

Each organization continues to provide mental health and psychosocial support services to hundreds if not thousands of beneficiaries each year.

HSH strengthened the capacity of organizations to meet current needs, develop new strategies and respond to future demands. Approaches to capacity development included fostering effective leadership, enhancing management and administrative capabilities, improving fundraising outcomes and positioning organizations to act as an advocacy voice for treatment and healing in their communities.

As part of the HSH team, Don Wheeler was proud to be implementing these approaches for partners in Bangladesh, Colombia, Lebanon, Nepal, and Tunisia. The project concluded in early 2025.