AMURT (Ananda Marga Universal Relief Team) is one of the few private voluntary organizations of Third World origin, being founded in India in 1965. Its original objective was to help meet the needs of victims of disasters that regularly hit the Indian sub-continent. Over the years AMURT has established teams in eighty countries, to create a network that can meet development and disaster needs almost anywhere in the world. In 1985 we broadened our goals to include long-term development. We feel we can play a useful role in helping the poor break the cycle of poverty and gain greater control over their lives. For us, development is human exchange: people sharing wisdom, knowledge and experience to build a better world.

Our mission is to help improve the quality of life for the poor and disadvantaged people of the world, and to assist the victims of natural and man-made disasters.

We believe that the best assistance is that which encourages and enables all people to develop themselves. Hence we help individuals and communities to harness their own resources for securing the basic necessities of life and for gaining greater economic, social and spiritual fulfillment, while
respecting their customs, language, and religious beliefs.

AMURTEL was formed in 1975 as a sister organization to respond specifically to the problems faced by women and children in their struggle to develop. AMURTEL is managed by women and initiates programs that raise the standard of health and education of women and their children. The programs also permit women to gain greater self-determination and economic independence. Please visit their website for a complete presentation of their programs around the world: www.amurtel.org.

· Every human being has the right to meet his or her own fundamental needs such as nourishment, accommodation, medical care, clothing and education. The resources of the earth should be used in a just and appropriate way to meet those needs.

· Every human being regardless of race, creed, gender, color or social status is a dignified member of the human family and should be treated with understanding and respect.

· It is only by showing respect for women, and ensuring their integration and active participation in the development process, that a harmonious growth of the family, community and society as a whole can be achieved. 

· Development is a balanced process that maintains an equilibrium between industry and the environment, urban and rural growth, human needs and available resources. Development should lessen the gap between rich and poor and provide opportunities for all. 

· Appropriate development begins within the social and cultural framework of each community. It enables underprivileged communities to gain a greater degree of independence to determine their own future.

KIDS Worldwide is a non-profit, non-religious organization affiliated with AMURT. It supports the well-being and holistic growth of vulnerable children,  women and their communities. Through compassionate service and the nurturing of a universalistic outlook, Kids Wordlwide give volunteers from around the world a chance to realize their true potential.  

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