Voluntary Agencies and Foundations in International Aid

Abstract

American voluntary agencies perform on behalf of their constituencies—the American public—extensive over seas operations in many countries throughout the world. They bring medical, educational, agricultural, relief, and refugee services to disadvantaged people wherever they have an op portunity to share their concerns and competence. They co ordinate their activities and co-operate with governmental agencies through informal arrangements such as councils and more formal agreements such as subcontracts. Their voluntary and independent characteristics permit a maximum of experi mentation and close contact with the people with whom they work and share. In so doing they help translate American humanitarian ideals in practical ways. They also bring to communities in the United States firsthand insight of the as pirations and problems of other peoples. This relationship helps the needed communication and understanding in an inter dependent world. Foundations have grown in number and scope to supplement the work of the traditional voluntary agencies. Some carry on their own programs; others prefer to work through existing organizations.