IANAL but my understanding is that on H1B, you can only work for your current employer. So, you cannot do these assignments legally and you definitely cannot accept money. But it is possible to have multiple H1Bs to work part time for multiple employers even though that is a totally different story.
Yes. I'd hire anyone who willing to work and has the skills. To me, great talent is everywhere. You just have to find it. I have just happened to find great talent over seas. I HAVE hired nearshore (USA) and had success and failures too.
