Frequently asked questions
|
 |
About World Vision NGO stands for non-governmental organisation and is a private organisation, independent from any government. NGOs often rely on donations to conduct their work and implement activities, which respond to a variety of needs and raise the quality of life of people living in poverty. World Vision is a Christian humanitarian relief and development organisation working in some 100 countries across the globe. For us children come first and our vision is that they live life in all its fullness - and where they don’t, we aim to change hearts and wills to make it happen. Is World Vision formally tied to any other entity? World Vision is an independent private Christian organization and is not formally affiliated with any government, denomination, foundation or corporation, though we maintain positive working relationships with all of these. Where in the Asia-Pacific is World Vision working? World Vision is serving in 23 countries in the Asia-Pacific Region. They are: Bangladesh, Cambodia, China, East Timor, Hong Kong, India, Indonesia, Japan, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Mongolia, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Singapore, Solomon Island, Sri Lanka, Taiwan, Thailand, Vanuatu, and Vietnam What types of projects does World Vision do? World Vision projects may be grouped into two major areas: 1) long-term sustainable community development focusing on meeting needs identified by the community itself, like clean water, education, health care, agricultural improvements and public hygiene, and 2) emergency relief, such as providing food, shelter and medical care to victims of natural or man-made disasters. Most relief projects are designed to transition smoothly into development activities. How long has World Vision been in operation? World Vision was founded in 1950 by Dr Bob Pierce in response to the needs of Korean War orphans. Since then it has grown to include fund raising offices in countries in North America, Europe and the Asia-Pacific region. Lately, more and more offices in countries traditionally perceived as beneficiary nations are also raising their own funds. What does "child-focused" mean? Child-focused development starts with the recognition that children are the future of any family, community and nation. It means improving the lives of children by dealing with the causes of their suffering, not just the symptoms. We recognise children do not live in a vacuum, but in a larger context of family and community, and our work impacts all of these. For example, food insecurity issues might be resolved with irrigation systems, improved seeds and training to farmers so that their children eat better and are healthier...not just this year, but in the foreseeable future. Children are the most vulnerable members of any community. Project activities are always tailored to have maximum benefit for them. Is evangelism a part of World Vision's projects? World Vision respects the religious beliefs and practices in countries where it operates, and seeks mutual understanding with people of all faiths. World Vision does not proselytise. We do not coerce nor demand that people hear any religious message or convert to Christianity before, during or after receiving assistance. World Vision is a signatory to the International Red Cross/Red Crescent movement stating that aid is given regardless of race, creed and nationality and on the basis of need alone. Do people living in project communities pay to participate in World Vision projects? Communities frequently contribute to development projects so they have a real sense of ownership and true participation. Give-aways have been proved not to work in development. They are taken for granted and, for the poor and disadvantage, undermine dignity. But when local people contribute materials and labour to build a school, with World Vision providing furniture, books and training for a local teacher, the community cares about that school. It is a source of pride. It also ensures lifestyle improvements will continue after World Vision's involvement concludes. Do World Vision projects create dependence on outside resources? No. Community development projects are specifically designed to be permanently sustainable with locally available resources, technology, materials and leadership. Families and individuals share in project leadership, responsibilities and activities from the start and are well equipped and motivated to continue in these roles when World Vision departs. It is a one-to-one relationship between a sponsor and a sponsored child. Sponsors correspond with their sponsored child, receive regular reports on their progress, and even visit the child and his or her family and community. World Vision raises private and public funds. Contributions come from child sponsors, private donors, businesses and foundations and from government grants. Gifts-in-kind such as food, commodities, clothing and medicines are also donated by corporations or government agencies. How does World Vision spend its money in the Asia-Pacific Region? The funds given to World Vision are primarily spent with a focus on children and their communities. World Vision is at work in 23 countries in the region. Some of these countries raise the money, some spend it on programmes and some countries, like Thailand, India and the Philippines, do both. Funds are also targeted at providing emergency relief and rehabilitation following natural or man-made disasters. For more information please visit our What We Do and Where We Work pages. If you are not able to find out what you are looking for, feel free to contact us |
