On Wednesday, July 3, 2013, Ambassador Michael Raynor presided over an agreements signing ceremony at the Kennedy-King American Library.

Through the Ambassador's Special Self Help Program, the U.S. Embassy committed more than $50,000 US (25.000.000 FCFA) to allow eight recipient organizations to implement development projects such as new solar panel equipment for a medical center in the city of Sikandji, women's empowerment, as well as to purchase equipment for income generating activities in the cities of Sinendé, Adjarra, Dangbo in Benin.

In his opening remarks, Ambassador Raynor said, " After nearly fifty years in operation, this innovative program continues to provide U.S. Ambassadors like me the ability and resources to support sustainable community-based initiatives that have a quick, meaningful, and lasting impact."

Once completed, these projects will generate revenue and improve the lives of thousands of Beninese citizens in the areas of economy, health and agriculture.