World Vision International: An Upstanding Christian Humanitarian Organization

As we approach the season of giving, our hearts and minds focus on our blessings and we search for ways that we can share our blessings with others in tangible and meaningful ways. World Vision International, a multifaceted Christian humanitarian organization stands at the ready to assist children, families and communities by showing and instructing them in ways to effectively overcome poverty and social injustices. World Vision teaches the embattled and underprivileged to find their own autonomy rather than become dependent upon others, thereby destroying the inner resolve to improve one's human condition. A charitable organization located in Federal Way, Washington, World Vision International does not discriminate in its offer of assistance and serves all people regardless of race, religion, ethnicity or gender. Presently under the leadership of Richard Stearns, the organization has maintained integrity and accountability throughout its years of operation, a tribute to its directive to spend wisely the monies it receives.

What is World Vision?
World Vision has been in operation for more than fifty years. Their administrative expenses are impressive in that 87% of the revenue received goes to the designated programs helping families in need. The remaining 13% is divided among fundraising and administrative expenses. Though it is admittedly a Christian humanitarian organization, World Vision's ministry is not at all limited to Christians only. Through their partnerships, they reach nearly 100 countries worldwide. Whenever tragedy strikes, whenever a people group is oppressed, World Vision can be found in the area serving alongside other organizations to relieve the effects of devastation and oppression. One can become actively involved with World Vision by making charitable contributions to the many programs that are offered through the ministry of World Vision.

Ways to Give to World Vision
The Love Loaf program is one of the many practical and meaningful ways to share in a ministry of giving to those in need. The Love Loaf program centers on such projects as assisting families in learning more productive and effective farming techniques, learn how to dig wells for potable drinking water , build safe structures in which to live, practice good health and sanitary measures to limit the spread of contagious diseases, and a myriad of other social projects. With the Love Loaf Program, you receive a bank shaped as a miniature loaf of bread. The slot at the top of the loaf is for inserting your coins. Once filled, you send the contents to World Vision. You can participate in the love loaf program as a group or as an individual, or the congregation can become involved for a special missions project. For churches, World Vision has printed posters and information to explain the impact and scope of World Vision. The Love Loaf program is a small tangible way to make a meaningful contribution to relieving poverty, hunger and social injustices worldwide.

Another World Vision program centers on assisting impoverished, hungry children receive healthy meals and teaching parents how to grow sustainable crops and practice healthy nutrition practices. There are many ministries within World Vision International and a visit to their website will explain in greater detail the focus of each program affiliated with World Vision International. Sponsorship of a child is yet another option to make charitable contributions to sponsor a child for as long as you are financially able to do so. You will receive updated reports from your assigned child throughout your time of sponsorship.

How to Participate
World Vision International has a website at www.worldvision.org,loveloaf where the details of the Love Loaf program can be read. Other programs designated to feed children specifically can be viewed on the website www.worldvision.org/FeedChildren. This website is not to be confused with the Feed the Hungry program sponsored by another organization. All gifts are tax deductible and at any time you can request a report of the budget and the allocation of funds by World Vision International. The organization can be contacted by calling l-877-456-2837. Visiting the website will give you complete information about the various ministries and humanitarian services they provide worldwide.