Philosophy HOPE believes that all people, regardless of their geographical setting, have basic rights and should be given the opportunity to achieve their God-given potential. Basic needs such as clean water, food, shelter, health, work, recreation, socio-economic independence, and basic education are seen by HOPE as being fundamental human rights upon which growth can occur. HOPE is dedicated to working alongside the poor, helping set up programs which enable the poor to cultivate their skills and knowledge, taking advantage of existing resources (when available) to develop self-reliant communities. With this in mind, the majority of HOPE's energies and resources are expended in favour of development rather than relief.
HOPE is also dedicated to portraying to the peoples of the developed world a healthy, non-paternalistic view of people of developing nations through visual and written material, and to linking the First and Third Worlds together.
Moreover, HOPE's reason for existing is deeply rooted in its Christian principles and origins. Its commitment to helping the poor arises not only out of a sympathetic heart towards the need, but also in the worth of mankind as created by God. HOPE is motivated by the mandates for justice and compassion as demonstrated in the life of Jesus Christ.
Following Christ's example, HOPE extends assistance to the poorest of the poor without discrimination as to the religious beliefs of the beneficiaries. HOPE's development programs represent a tangible expression of the organizations' religious values.
Goals
The overall goals of HOPE are:
- to assist the neglected poor in the developing world to help themselves.
- to encourage development of the whole person.
- to inform and educate peoples in the developed world regarding issues related to the developing world.
- to motivate the peoples of the developed world to action in support of the developing world.
- to facilitate and provide a mechanism for active participation between the peoples of the developed world and the developing world.