UMCOR provides humanitarian relief and disaster response in the United States and internationally. Our efforts are targeted in places where natural disasters, war, or conflict have done so much damage that communities are unable to recover on their own. While UMCOR is not a first-response organization, we stand ready to accompany communities in need over the long haul of their recovery, until they are well on their way to establishing a “new normal” after a crisis.

In addition, UMCOR helps communities in the United States and abroad prepare for emergencies and to reduce the risk of disasters through a roster of training programs.

UMCOR’s International Development Unit works through its field offices and its extensive partner network to facilitate long-term community development and empowerment in areas of great need. Many development issues and opportunities are interrelated, so UMCOR uses integrated solutions to address root causes, working alongside local communities to develop assets in water, sanitation, and hygiene; sustainable agriculture and food security, nutrition; and community-based primary health care.

Our work is informed by global initiatives such as the Millennium Development Goals, the post-2015 development goals (in process), Sphere Standards, and best practices with regards to facilitating sustainable solutions, measuring impact, and evaluating approaches. We seek to alleviate human suffering without regard to race, religion, gender or sexual orientation. We believe all people have God-given worth, dignity and a right to assistance when in need.