Who We Are

PDH Foundation

PDH Foundation is a unique non-profit organization that stands out due to its innovative approach and steadfast dedication. Our primary goal is to carry out the Great Commission given by Jesus Christ to His disciples by promoting the expansion of God's Kingdom through impactful missions and sustainable growth. We believe God has called us as builders, architects, engineers, and business professionals to develop sustainable projects to support missions across Zambia. What makes us truly unique is our commitment to bringing about profound change in accordance with God’s Kingdom principles, which is supported by our three strategic focus areas.

a.    The restoration of dignity among Zambians. Our mission goes beyond simply setting goals; it is a vital endeavor we approach with a comprehensive strategy. Our impact extends beyond just creating job opportunities and enabling individuals to support their families; it encompasses the restoration of their dignity. Skill training is crucial in enhancing their marketability and nurturing hope and security for their future. The spiritual growth they experience throughout this process compels them to spread the love of Christ to others, leading to genuine transformation. Empowering individuals spiritually and economically enables them to become catalysts for positive change within their communities. This journey of restoration stands as a testament to the power of our mission and the hope it brings to those we serve.

b.    To transform Zambian Christian mission organizations into autonomous entities by generating ongoing income from real estate development projects. PDH is more than just an organization; it is a powerful force driving change. Through our innovative approach, we can relieve missionaries of financial stress, allowing them to dedicate their time and energy to their mission work rather than fundraising. Our unwavering commitment to sustainability is not just a mere tactic; it stands as proof of our dedication to ensuring the lasting success of missionary efforts.

c.  Serving as responsible stewards of the resources entrusted to us. At PDH, we understand the significance of the contributions made by our supporters and consider it a solemn responsibility to handle these resources with care. We are dedicated to operating with transparency and accountability, ensuring that every donation is utilized in a manner that effectively furthers the mission of advancing God's Kingdom. This unwavering commitment to transparency and accountability forms our organization's bedrock, assuring our supporters that their generosity is truly impactful.

Background

The founders and supporters of PDH have a wide range of skills and interests but are united in their love for and devotion to Christ. They have observed that previous models of Zambian missions have been fragile, relying on charitable contributions and not focused on ensuring the sustainability of their work. Many Zambian missions serve for a while, and then the leaders return to their home countries, essentially ending the work of their missions. PDH encourages individuals to follow the principles found in Luke 10 and challenges them to spread Christ's peace, love, and joy in their communities. As a result, people may ask, "What happened to that individual? They used to be a drunk, homeless, or frowned upon people. Now look at them!" The selection criteria for PDH support are based on the alignment of the project with our mission, the potential for long-term impact, and the commitment of the project leaders to sustainability and community engagement.

The roots of PDH can be traced back to two South African missionary brothers who embarked on separate mission work in Malawi, Botswana, and Zambia. In 2014, they collaborated to introduce the Business as Mission (BAM) concept, aiming to merge mission work with effective business strategies. This approach sought to promote self-sustainability and decrease dependence on charitable contributions by generating income through business activities. Despite initial financial constraints, the organization garnered substantial global support. Although the concept of PDH was conceived in 2008, it only gained traction in 2014. Over the years, they have completed diverse projects, including schools, an orphanage, a clinic, a training center, and flats and townhouses that generate revenue to support commissioned missions. Their most notable achievement has been the successful construction and operation of a four-star hotel in Kabwe, which opened in 2019.

In 2021 and 2022, PDH's primary business operations, including the Urban Bliss Hotel, Ltd. and the construction operations, were divested and became independent privately owned businesses. These businesses now allocate a significant portion of their net income to support PDH's three purposes. For example, the Urban Bliss Hotel contributes a portion of its profits to fund PDH's missions while the construction operations continue to build infrastructure for mission organizations. Although the companies are no longer directly affiliated with the purely missional operations of PDH, they remain committed to the same overarching purpose: obedience to the Great Commission. The three organizations operate with interlocking directorates, ensuring cohesion and alignment in their mission. As more businesses come online, they can all be part of the ecosystem that defines PDH.

The decision to sell revenue-generating assets has clarified PDH's primary objective. This document outlines the vision, mission, and strategy of PDH, a Public Benefit Organization (PBO), irrespective of its funding sources. It also delineates PDH's fundamental operating principles when carrying out its duties.

Implicit in PDH's goals is the commitment to ensuring the sustainability of its work, which commenced in 2008, gained momentum in 2014, and has flourished since then. PDH has experienced spiritual and economic growth and aims to expand the church's influence into all aspects of daily life while challenging the broader community to do the same. Despite progress, there is still much work to be done, and PDH is determined to continue this mission, regardless of the individuals leading it in the future. PDH and its directors are proud to have established long-standing partnerships with various organizations over the years. These partnerships include Operation Mobilization International, Life Trust Zambia, Driven Ministries, Grace Ministries International, Living Hope International, Liebenzell Missions, Umweo Church Hospital, North Swaka Trust, and local churches and businesses. These relationships have been a tremendous source of motivation and encouragement for the team. The leaders and supporters of PDH are praying for God's blessings to expand their impact by partnering with foundations, families, businesses, and individuals to fulfill the Great Commission in Zambia. The unique approach of PDH has already proven successful, and they hope that their example will inspire other organizations in Zambia and beyond to do the same. The full potential of the PDH concept can be realized with the help of like-minded partners who share our vision. We value every one of our partners and believe that together, we can make a lasting impact.

Vision, Mission & Strategy

As noted previously, PDH serves three main stakeholders:

a.    Individual Zambian nationals.

b.    Mission organizations operating in Zambia.

c. Donors and supporters worldwide who wish to entrust their resources to the stewardship of PDH

The Vision

The vision of PDH represents the ideal outcome that can be imagined when PDH has fully achieved its purpose. This vision is three-fold, with each aspect representing the success envisioned for each stakeholder.

a.  The interaction of every Zambian citizen with PDH is restoring their sense of dignity.

b. PDH is supporting Christian missions in Zambia, which are progressing towards becoming self-sufficient.

a.    PDH effectively and transparently manages its resources, establishing itself as a reliable and trustworthy organization for its donors and supporters.

The Mission

The mission of PDH encompasses the actual work that PDH undertakes to realize its vision. Once again, the work comes in three distinct varieties, each catering to a specific class of stakeholders.

a.         Provide individuals with a range of support and encouragement through guidelines established by PDH. This includes but is not limited to offering educational and training scholarships, financial assistance to eligible individuals and families, financing assistance for individuals starting small businesses, and intervention services for individuals experiencing a crisis.

b.         PDH collaborates with established Christian missions to define,   plan, fund, and execute income-generating business ventures. These ventures serve the dual purpose of operating as sound businesses based on Christian principles and dedicating at least 1/3 of their net income to support the client's mission.

PDH donors and supporters appreciate that the organization consistently operates transparently. The organization must provide quarterly updates on its progress, conduct and publish the results of an independent financial annual audit, report on specific achievement parameters, reserve at least one-third of the board of directors for donors and supporters, and implement operating guidelines to prevent conflicts of interest and eliminate opportunities for employees, directors, and others to benefit improperly from their affiliation with PDH.

The Strategy

The strategy of PDH represents the broad choices PDH makes in the way it achieves its mission and realizes its vision.  Once again, the strategy is in three forms:

a.    The primary approach for working with individuals involves empowering, encouraging, mentoring, and providing support to help them become self-reliant. The well-known proverb explains this approach best: "Give a man a fish, and you feed him for a day; teach a man to fish, and you feed him for a lifetime."

b.    The primary approach for Christian Missions is to ensure that each mission supported by PDH runs a financially sustainable business. This business should offer employment and training opportunities while generating funds to support the mission's activities.

The primary strategy for donors and supporters is to maintain close and ongoing relationships with them. This will keep them engaged in developing new ideas and seeking out new sources of support, allowing them to celebrate and enjoy the results of the PDH's efforts.

Funding Sources

A variety of funding sources are anticipated. Two operational businesses have already dedicated a significant portion of their earnings to support PDH. Below is a listing of possible revenue streams that can support PDH:

a.  Equity (or structured debt instruments) in private or public for-profit enterprises;

b.    Donations from individuals;

c.    Donations from for-profit enterprises in Zambia and from elsewhere.

d.    Donations from not-for-profit organizations.

e.    Rental income from projects erected in part with Support from PDH.

The PDH Foundation plans to fund its operations primarily through businesses that pledge to donate a percentage of their net income or shares. This funding model will provide PDH with a reliable source of operating capital to make a sustainable impact on its missions.

Currently Urban Bliss Hotel (‘UBH’) is one such example where the aim is to have 50% of the earnings of UBH donated to PDH.  Another example is SIMPEL, a privately owned real estate and development company that has donated 25% of its ownership interest to PDH.  Several other businesses are on the drawing boards that, when activated, will add to the revenue streams of PDH.  The model will be PDH at the center, with a series of privately owned businesses devoting a portion of their earnings to the direct support of PDH, the mother ship. 

Eligible Applicants for PDH Support

Three classes of eligible applicants are expected to apply to PDH for support. The following paragraphs provide a general description of each class, along with broad parameters that define the class in a way that gives PDH flexibility in accepting support applications.

Individuals

At the highest level, only Zambian nationals can apply for PDH support. PDH will emphasize supporting educational and training opportunities for those who cannot access them directly. This effort aims to train, educate, and empower Zambian nationals, aligning with the current president of Zambia, His Excellency Mr. Hakainde Hichilema, who focuses on developing a stronger Zambia through quality education and training.  PDH will support opportunities that align with its vision, mission, and strategy. It will prioritize individuals who want to develop their talents through educational and professional training. PDH will collaborate with its Zambian Christian Mission community partners to identify suitable candidates. 

Additionally, PDH will conduct outreach programs to inform potential candidates about its programs. The timing and nature of these outreach programs will be determined by the PDH board and periodically reviewed and updated. The selection process for applicants is discussed below.

Christian Mission Organizations

Any Christian Mission organization operating in Zambia that seeks to begin its journey toward becoming a self-sustaining mission is eligible to apply for support from PDH.

PDH will assist in establishing sustainable funding for Christian Mission organizations working in Zambia by:

a.    Investing in rental housing units that can be constructed on a property owned by a mission organization.

b.    Invest in housing units that can be purchased from a larger townhouse complex.

c.    Investing in shares of Businesses operating on Christian principles on behalf of the mission organization.

d.    Investing in fixed deposit accounts with a reputable local financial institution.

These investments can create a sustainable revenue stream to fund various mission programs and administrative and operating expenses. Regarding priorities, PDH will first strive to develop sustainable funding for the organization's mission and, secondly, look to build sustainability for mission projects and administrative and operating expenses. The PDH Foundation may also offer scholarships or bursaries to individuals working in these organizations to obtain qualifications to work in specialized areas.

Donors & Supporters

This category includes individuals or organizations who want to dedicate their time, skills, and resources to support the concept of Business as a Mission. This approach differs from the traditional missionary support model, where funds are donated to support various missions directly. PDH's model seeks to invest funds in businesses that, in turn, aim to support Zambian missions. In essence, donors can invest funds, through PDH, in business operations intended to generate reliable revenue for specific mission organizations. Investors are not prohibited from sharing in the profits of businesses they support, especially those primarily focused on supporting mission organizations. Additionally, donors can specify that donated funds be used and repaid with additional administration fees. This allows the donor to continue giving while also receiving a tax-deductible donation.

Criteria for Selection for Support by PDH

The main requirement for applying for PDH support is a clear and unwavering commitment to the Great Commission. Applicants must demonstrate that the work they seek support for is aimed at fulfilling the Great Commission.

The additional secondary criteria for applications for PDH support vary depending on the beneficiary category, but they must align with PDH's mission. The PDH board of directors will establish specific acceptance criteria, which will be periodically reviewed and updated. The current criteria will also be available on the PDH website.

Amplifying notes

PDH Foundation has an expanded vision. The foundation aims to allocate funds and resources to sustainable projects by partnering with donors and organizations that share its purpose and vision. These projects will support mission organizations and individuals in fulfilling their God-given life callings. Since its establishment, PDH has prioritized empowering orphans, homeless, disabled, and deaf individuals. This empowerment is primarily achieved through partnerships with Zambian Mission Organizations, local businesses, and individuals who share the same values as PDH.

The Board of Directors, General Manager, and every PDH team member ensure that the organization remains focused on this original mission concept as it seeks partnerships. In the past, PDH Foundation has empowered and mentored Zambians by providing bursaries, scholarships, career skills, and life development skills. PDH will continue to support Zambians directly and indirectly through bursaries and scholarships. The practical empowerment and discipleship that PDH has facilitated in the past will continue through our partners, including businesses that fund PDH and mission organizations that are beneficiaries. The role of PDH is limited to (a) allocating financial resources to benefit missionaries and mission organizations in line with the established mission and vision and (b) ensuring that the desired outputs of the various projects and grants are fully realized.

PDH Board of Directors. PDH operates under the control and supervision of an independent board of directors, which provides oversight and accountability to all stakeholders.

PDH Employment and Staffing.  Initially, the PDH Foundation will require minimal staffing to operate effectively. To start, we will need a part-time General Manager, a part-time Manager of Finance, and a part-time Project Coordinator. The Manager of Finance will be responsible for all financial transactions and reporting. The General Manager will be responsible for successfully executing the mission of PDH, including promoting the goals and mission of PDH, approving fund disbursements to projects that align with the goals of PDH as per the criteria adopted by the board of directors, maintaining relations with donors, managing the website, and updating marketing materials with appropriate testimonials. The Project Coordinator will be responsible for all administrative and client relations with partner organizations, missionaries, and prospective students. They will also be responsible for developing all information and materials necessary for PDH to make its decisions and providing bi-annual reports on the grant recipients to the General Manager.

Process of Application for Funding. The board of directors will adopt the procedure for applying for PDH support. The General Manager will propose such methods, and the board of directors will adopt them as is or as amended. Such procedures will be reviewed and updated from time to time. The current procedures will be published on the PDH website.

Distribution of Funds

To Frontline Missionaries

To Frontline Missionaries: "Missionary" refers to a full-time ministry leader, church planter, or evangelist. Funding for employees in Zambian Mission Organizations, such as administrative staff, teachers, and general workers, is the responsibility of the Mission Organization. Missionaries must work in this capacity with the same Zambian mission organization for at least five years before PDH would consider them for this option. PDH also reserves the right to identify a specific missionary for these purposes.

Mission Organizations

To Mission Organizations: PDH will only fund evangelical mission organizations in Zambia. The target group of organizations will be those with whom PDH has collaborated over the past fifteen years. This does not rule out any new organizations being identified, but helps focus our attention on a specific group of organizations.

 Scholarships/Bursaries

Scholarships/Bursaries: Upon completing the bursary program with PDH, the recipient is not obligated to render service to the PDH Foundation or any affiliated donor. However, reciprocally, they are mandated to engage in full or part-time service with a mission organization or affiliated company for a duration equivalent to the period of the scholarship received, in compliance with the specific requirements of that respective organization.

Special Note

Upon approval of a funding request for a sustainable construction project, PDH will exclusively engage SIMPEL, a sister real estate development company, to develop and construct the approved building project. For instance, if the project involves rental flats for a mission organization, the funds will be transferred from PDH to the organization's bank account. The organization will then provide PDH with a receipt for the received funds and subsequently transfer the funds (without deduction) to SIMPEL Real Estate Ltd. as payment for constructing the approved property for the organization. SIMPEL Real Estate will issue a receipt to the mission organization for the funds received.

Reporting to Donors

The General Manager of PDH provides donors with an annual report on the distribution of funds. Donors who contribute to a specific project receive bi-annual progress reports throughout the project's duration. Additionally, donors have the option to contact the recipients directly.

To the extent SIMPEL’s capacity and skills cannot accommodate a particular project, appropriately skilled subcontractors will be brought in to fill the vacuum.