What we are
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 organisation has
grown to help children all over the world.
We take action for children as an independent nongovernmental
social development organisation. 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 organisation
pioneered a family approach to the long-term
care of orphaned and abandoned children. This concept
is based on four principles:
The Mother
Each child has a caring parent
The SOS mother 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 recognises and respects each child‘s
family background, cultural roots and religion.
Brothers and Sisters
Family ties grow naturally
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.
The House
Each family creates its own home
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.
The Village
The SOS family is a part of the community
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.
