World Vision International

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World Vision International (WVI) is an interdenominational Christian humanitarian aid organization that operates globally with a focus on empowering communities and promoting human rights. Founded in 1950 by Robert Pierce, the organization has grown to become one of the world's largest humanitarian aid organizations, working in over 100 countries.

Initially, World Vision focused on providing emergency assistance to children affected by poverty and conflict, particularly following the Korean War. In response to this need, the Mission Advanced Research and Communication Center (MARC) was established as a division of World Vision in 1967. This marked the beginning of WVI's commitment to addressing global crises and promoting sustainable development.

Over time, World Vision has expanded its scope to address various aspects of human suffering, including HIV/AIDS, land mine ban advocacy, and economic empowerment. The organization has also fostered partnerships with faith-based organizations, health providers, and communities living with HIV and AIDS to promote understanding and care for those affected by the disease.

One notable aspect of World Vision's approach is its commitment to non-proselytizing activities. According to Richard Stearns, president of WVI US, "using any kind of coercion or induction to listen to a particular worldview would be an affront" to people from diverse faith backgrounds. This policy reflects the organization's dedication to respecting and engaging with various cultures and spiritual traditions.

Today, World Vision International operates under the guidance of its board of directors, which oversees the global partnership and sets standards for humanitarian work. The organization has consultative status with several United Nations agencies, including UNESCO, UNICEF, WHO, UNHCR, and ILO, further solidifying its commitment to addressing pressing global issues.

Under Andrew Morley's leadership as president, World Vision continues to prioritize community empowerment through various programs focused on emergency response, education, health, economic development, and human rights promotion. With a presence in six continents and over 35,000 employees worldwide, WVI remains a prominent voice for humanitarian action and sustainable development.

In recent years, the organization has made significant strides in raising funds to support its global work, with total contributions exceeding $2.7 billion in 2016 alone. As World Vision International looks to the future, it will continue to prioritize community-led initiatives that promote human dignity, respect, and empowerment for all people worldwide.