Who we are and what we do

We exist because millions of children live in conditions of extreme poverty across the World and we can do something to help.

Our vision is of a world in which all children realise their full potential in societies which respect people's rights and dignity.

We do this by working with children, their families and the wider community, to help them achieve positive change in their own lives. For more than 60 years, we have stood for the rights of children and helped millions of children to have the opportunity to contribute to their societies in a positive way. Read our mission statement.

We have long recognised that children are not passive recipients of aid. We believe that long-term improvements and change can only be sustained if children are 'development actors': they participate, voice their opinions, are listened to and taken seriously because their opinions count.

Children in communities we work with are often involved directly in planning, implementing and monitoring projects which benefit themselves, their families and their communities. 

Our work is broadly based around five key areas: 

Education
All children, young people and adults deserve access to learning and life skills that enable them to realise their potential.

Health
Everyone has the right to grow up healthy

Habitat
Improving living conditions to provide a safe environment for all

Livelihood
Working out ways for families to improve their income

Building relationships
Creating a worldwide community working to improve children's lives

Our history
Plan was founded in 1937. Read the story that led us to become one of the world's largest development organisations working at grass-roots levels to improve children's lives in 46 countries

Sponsor a child
Become a sponsor today, and support our work to make poverty history. Sponsorship supports long-term community development projects, helping us continue our vital work.

As a sponsor, you'll get regular updates about our work in the country and community where the child you sponsor lives. You can also enjoy a unique cultural exchange, by writing and receiving letters.