community

our history

HOPE worldwide was founded in 1991 in response to the call of the Scriptures to serve the poor, sick and suffering throughout the world. The organization began with just three small programs dedicated to bringing hope to vulnerable communities. In Abidjan, Ivory Coast, HOPE worldwide established an HIV/AIDS clinic to meet the critical health needs of a country plagued with disease. A medical clinic in Mexico City, Mexico provided treatment for children without access to quality healthcare. Children were also the focus of educational outreach programs in Bangalore, India. In collaboration with the International Churches of Christ, HOPE worldwide quickly expanded its reach, building relationships with partner organizations and mobilizing thousands of volunteers. While maintaining its Biblical foundation, HOPE worldwide was compelled to find new and innovative ways to fight poverty, respond to disasters and foster a culture of volunteerism. Today, HOPE worldwide serves more than 1.5 million people annually on every inhabited continent. “For I was hungry and you gave me something to eat, I was thirsty and you gave me something to drink, I was a stranger and you invited me in, I needed clothes and you clothed me, I was sick and you looked after me, I was in prison and you came to visit me…Truly I tell you, whatever you did for one of the least of these brothers and sisters of mine, you did for me.” -Matthew 25:35-40