Around 12,000 employees, 97% of whom are directly from the 70 project countries in Africa, Asia, Latin America and Eastern Europe, are working on the vision of a world without poverty. CARE has general observer status at the UN and is independent in terms of politics and religion. Every year around 57 million people, more than half of whom are women, profit from the various CARE projects.

CARE's mission is clearly defined: its function is to serve the individual and families in the poorest regions of the world. CARE's strength, derived from its world-wide presence and the wide range of its resources and experience, enables it to push through innovative solutions and to act as an advocate for global responsibility. “We work for a world of hope, tolerance and social justice, in which poverty has been defeated and man can live in dignity and security” is the principle applied by this highly regarded organisation. There can be no doubt that CARE is a global force and a welcome partner in the worldwide battle against poverty.

“CARE Austria, association for development cooperation and humanitarian aid,” was founded exactly 25 years ago in 1986. This politically and philosophically independent organisation currently has a team of 36 employees.

After World War II, with Austria in ruins and the people starving, the CARE parcels distributed throughout the country were vital. 40 years later, Austria had become one of the richest countries on earth and was thus able to pass on aid throughout the world. Today, the Vienna office handles roughly 30 projects in Africa, Asia and Southeast Europe according to the principle of “helping others to help themselves”. In a total of 348 projects in 50 countries, CARE Austria has provided valuable assistance over the last two and a half decades – helping almost 50 million people to a life in dignity.

Of the money, originating both from EU and Austrian public funds and from private donations, 89% is applied directly to the aid projects, with the rest being spent on information, education work and administration.

published April 23rd, 2011