The NOIVA Foundation is a non-denominational and politically independent, autonomous body. Its philosophy is based on the proven humanitarian values of Switzerland.
Noiva
Values and Goals
As a non-profit, non-governmental organization (NGO), NOIVA is committed to enabling people to lead a self-determined life in freedom, peace and dignity. Our country has centuries-old traditions based on the ideals of tolerance and individual freedom. Time and again, religiously or politically persecuted minorities have found refuge in Switzerland – starting with the Huguenots, who were forced to flee France in the 16th century. Ethnic groups threatened by war and oppression have also sought protection here. Today, the issue of refugees is more topical than ever.
Humanitarian commitment
As one of the safest and most prosperous countries in the world, we share responsibility for people who are less fortunate. Since the founding of the Swiss Red Cross (SRC) and the International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC), Switzerland has played a leading role in emergency and development aid worldwide. The SRC and ICRC are just two of the many instruments used by the government and the population to alleviate suffering at home and abroad. The NOIVA Foundation aims to strengthen and promote Switzerland’s rich humanitarian heritage.
Unfortunately, humanitarian and social tasks are often delegated to large organizations. NOIVA is convinced that we as individuals can do more than we realize. Personal sympathy and practical willingness to help in one’s own environment are therefore central concerns of the foundation. In addition, interested people without humanitarian training are also encouraged to take part in missions. The associated broadening of horizons has had a lasting impact on many of the former participants.
Noiva
Principles and Guidelines
We put our hearts into what we do: our focus is not on numbers, structures and institutions, but always on people. We deliberately work flexibly, close to everyday events. We take care of external needs as well as the emotional needs of those in need. We network, arrange contacts and promote personal friendships.
How we understand our humanitarian work
The core of our humanitarian work is to build relationships with people in need. We create space for encounters, acceptance, appreciation, reconciliation and friendship. Based on the conviction that all of this contributes significantly to sustainable change, we invest a lot of time – together with our volunteer teams – in personal encounters and relationships.
Based on this core idea, we provide practical help.
- We visit needy families at home and hand out food vouchers, clothes, blankets, toys, etc. We carry out repair work on makeshift shelters, often with the active support of refugees.
- We regularly organize and design cultural events that are open to all sections of the population and offer children and young people in particular a welcome change of pace – and, depending on the situation, a platform for participation.
- We run various free courses for children, young people and adults (English, computers, sport, theater, life skills, etc.) and are involved in special creative and sporting activities in refugee camps.
- We provide financial support for medical emergencies (examinations, operations, etc.) and, if necessary, refer those affected to other organizations and doctors so that they can be helped as quickly as possible.
- We initiate and supervise private learning groups for Syrian refugee children. Unemployed Syrian or Jordanian adults take on the role of learning guides, supported and accompanied by the “learn2live” project manager.
- We cooperate with various NGOs. We see ourselves as part of a humanitarian Switzerland that gets involved in crisis areas and makes gifts.
We live our culture based on this core idea.
- We maintain an authentic, fair and respectful relationship with project staff, participants, local volunteers (e.g. interpreters), other organizations and the people we support.
- We treat all people as equals, with respect and decency and preserve their dignity. This also means that we respect other cultures and behave sensitively and considerately on site.
Based on this core idea, we organize voluntary help.
- We encourage people in Switzerland to take part in a mission themselves. This enables them to make a personal contribution – contrary to the widespread feeling of powerlessness. The insight into the refugees’ living conditions gives them a completely different perspective.
- We are not primarily looking for “professionals” for our missions, but for people who would like to give some of their resources – time, energy, skills, empathy – to those in need.
- Character qualities and personal motivation are more important to us than training and experience. As the safety of all those involved and the smooth running of operations are our top priority, we reserve the right to reject applications without giving reasons.
We handle finances with this core idea in mind.
- We are committed to handling donations responsibly and efficiently and keeping administrative costs low – as many funds as possible should go directly to those in need.
- No funds are passed on to other organizations. Mission-related expenses (flights, transportation costs, board and lodging, insurance if applicable) are borne by the participants themselves.
Adresse
Stiftung NOIVA
Grüzefeldstrasse 32
CH-8400 Winterthur
Schweiz