About Concern Worldwide

Concern Worldwide is a non-governmental, international, humanitarian organization dedicated to the reduction of suffering and working toward the ultimate elimination of extreme poverty in the world’s poorest countries.

Concern Worldwide was founded by John and Kay O’Loughlin-Kennedy in 1968, in response to the famine in the breakaway province of Biafra in Nigeria. The widespread conflict that followed Biafra’s attempt to secede from Nigeria caused the displacement of millions and a blockade of food, medicine, and basic necessities by the Nigerian authorities. At the height of the crisis in the summer of 1968, it was estimated that 6,000 children were dying every week.

Mission

To help people living in extreme poverty achieve major improvements in their lives that last and spread without ongoing support from Concern.

Our Vision

Is of a world free from poverty, fear, and oppression. All have access to a decent standard of living and the opportunities and choices essential to a long, healthy, and creative life. Everyone is treated with dignity and respect.

Values

Built on our history and the voluntary, compassionate commitment of Concern’s founders:

• Focus on extreme poverty
• Equality
• We listen
• Rapid Response
• Courage
• Commitment
• Innovation
• Accountability and Transparency