Roots
The first SOS Children’s Village was founded by Hermann Gmeiner in 1949, in
Imst, Austria. He was committed to helping children in need – children who had
lost their homes, their security and their families as a result of the Second
World War. With the support of many donors and co-workers, our organization has
grown to help children all over the world.
We take action for children as an independent, non-governmental social
development organization. We respect varying religions and cultures, and we
work in countries and communities where our mission can contribute to
development. We work in the spirit of the United Nations Convention on the
Rights of the Child and we promote these rights around the world.
With the SOS Children’s Village concept, our organization pioneered a family
approach to the long-term care of orphaned and abandoned children. This concept
is based on four principles:
1) THE MOTHER: “ Each child has a caring parent ”
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The SOS mother handles one of the hardest yet most
joyful responsibilities in the world where she builds a close relationship with
every child entrusted to her, and provides the security, love, and stability
that each child needs. As a child-care professional, she lives together with
the children, guides their development, and runs her household independently.
She recognizes and respects each child’s family background, cultural roots and
religion. |
2) BROTHERS & SISTERS: “ Family ties grow naturally ”
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Girls and boys of different ages live together as
brothers and sisters, with natural brothers and sisters always staying within
the same SOS family. These children and their SOS mother build emotional ties
that last a lifetime. Each SOS family consists of nine children and their SOS
mother.
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3) THE HOUSE: “ Each family creates its own home ”
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The house is the family’s home, with its own
unique feeling, rhythm and routine. Under its roof, children enjoy a real sense
of security and belonging. Children grow and learn together, sharing
responsibilities and all the joys and sorrows of daily life.
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4) THE VILLAGE: “ The SOS family is part of the community ”
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SOS families live together, forming a supportive
village environment where children enjoy a happy childhood. The families share
experiences and offer one another a helping hand. They also live as integrated
and contributing members of the local community. Through his or her family,
village and community, each child learns to participate actively in society. |
