World Vision - About Us

World Vision works to make a serious and sustainable impact on poverty and its causes, especially as they affect children. We are committed to long-term change, which means connecting people. Whether it’s enabling people in developing communities to support each other, or linking donors to those in need through child sponsorship, or creating networks to campaign for justice, we believe that getting people connected is the best way to make a difference.

That’s one reason why we put so much emphasis on advocacy. While individual programmes can mitigate the effects of poverty, it’s only by speaking up for and with those who are marginalised that we can influence the policies of governments and international bodies and so address the underlying causes of poverty

World Vision is a Christian relief, development and advocacy organisation dedicated to working with children, families and communities to overcome poverty and injustice.

Motivated by our faith in Jesus Christ, World Vision serves alongside the poor and oppressed as a demonstration of God’s unconditional love for all people.

World Vision serves all people regardless of religion, race, ethnicity or gender.

Financial support is received from; the UK Government, the European Union, charitable trusts, corporate supporters and also more than 100,000 individuals, who sponsor children in poor communities overseas. Lives are also transformed through the Alternative Gift Catalogue and events such as the 24 Hour famine.

World Vision works to change the root causes of poverty through campaigning, church partnerships, education and influencing policy makers.

In whatever we do, we place a special emphasis on ensuring the needs and rights of children are met, because they are often the hardest hit by conflict, disaster and chronic poverty.

Is evangelism a part of World Vision\\\\'s projects?

World Vision does not proselytise. The organisation does not coerce nor demand that people hear any religious message or convert to Christianity before, during or after receiving assistance.

Educational activities based on Christian values are included in World Vision projects if appropriate and desired by the community. However, World Vision respects the religious beliefs and practices in countries where it operates, and seeks mutual understanding with people of all faiths.

Whenever appropriate, World Vision works in partnership with local churches and other faith-based organisations in an effort to work inclusively and collaboratively within existing community structures. Our focus is to respond to human need, and our compassion and professionalism reflect our faith.

History

World Vision was founded in 1950 by the Reverend Bob Pierce in response to the needs of Korean War orphans.

To provide long-term, ongoing care for children in crisis, World Vision developed its first child sponsorship programme in Korea in 1953. As children began to flourish through sponsorship in Korea, the programme expanded into other Asian countries and eventually into Latin America, Africa, Eastern Europe and the Middle East.

Through the decades, World Vision has become a leader in the field of relief and development. Over 20,000 full and part-time staff members implement programmes of emergency relief, education, healthcare, economic development, and promotion of justice in almost 100 countries. World Vision is a living tribute to Pierce\\\\'s work.

Giving

How charity fundraising can change lives – including yours

Raising money for charity can be a rewarding experience, as well as lots of fun. And when you organise a charity fundraising event for World Vision, you’ll be changing the lives of people who live in extreme poverty, giving them a real chance to improve their situation and become self-sustaining.

How to raise money for World Vision

You’ll find plenty of ideas for fundraising in our Ideas and Resources section at www.worldvision.org.uk , as well as some good advice about promoting your charity fundraising event. Whether you choose sponsored ballroom dancing lessons, a jumble sale, a 24 hour famine, or something completely unique to you – you’ll be making a better world for people in extreme need.