Save the Children: Over 80 Years of Helping Children and Families in Need

In 1919, teacher and sociologist Eglantyne Jebb founded the Save the Children Fund in England to help children in war-torn central Europe. More than a decade later, a group of concerned citizens who were inspired by Jebb's vision established Save the Children in America to aid Appalachian children and families struggling to survive during the Great Depression. Today, Save the Children works internationally to create lasting, positive change in the lives of children in more than 120 countries. The world's leading independent organization for children, Save the Children has a broad domestic and global footprint thanks to the support of its donors and partners. In 2012, Save the Children helped more than 78 million children in the United States and over 125 million children globally.

Currently led by president and CEO Carolyn Miles, Save the Children works in the heart of marginalized, impoverished, and vulnerable communities, helping children and families help themselves. The organization's core philosophies have always been self-help and self-reliance – that development takes place when people take charge of their own lives. Save the Children helps save children's lives, defend them from exploitation, and assist them in accessing health care and education. Additionally, the organization responds to natural disasters, civil conflicts, and ethnic violence, staying in communities to help them rebuild and recover.



Recognized for its commitment to accountability, collaboration, and innovation, Save the Children has received top awards from charity watchers, publishers, and consumer advocates, including an A+ ranking from the American Institute of Philanthropy, a four-star rating from Charity Navigator, and a Top-Rated Award from Great Nonprofits.

While Save the Children runs diverse programs and follows a multi-disciplinary approach, its mission has always been to improve the lives of children in need around the world. The organization envisions a planet where every child has the right to survival, development, protection, and participation.