Our Roots

The first SOS Children’s Village was founded by Hermann Gmeiner in 1949 at Imst, in Austria. Hermann Gmeiner devoted his life to supporting children in need – to children who have lost their homes, who have lost a feeling of security and were abandoned during the Second World War. In the following years the activities of SOS Children’s Villages spread and support children all over the world.   

We take action for children as an independent non-governmental social development organization. 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 Nation Convention on the Rights of the Child and we promote these rights around the world.

With the SOS Children’s Village concept, our organization 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 recognizes 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: 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 actively participate in society.