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Motivation and values

We act boldly and on equal footing with others. In doing so, we are guided by the principle of Christian charity.

Motivation

We give possibilities.

We mobilize people who, together with us, empower more and more individuals worldwide to a future full of possibilities. So they can boldly unlock their potential and break the cycle of poverty.

Values

We develop perspectives.

We are acting boldly today for a promising future. This creates possibilities for more and more people around the world, for our donors and our employees.
  • Hopeful & realistic

    Despite the challenges, we are committed possibility givers.

    We believe that God is active and there for all people. Therefore, despite challenges, we work toward better conditions in our communities and the world. In doing so, we create possibilities that bring joy to others and ourselves—and fill us with shared wonder. We are hopeful realists.

  • Free & connecting

    We engage with all people on equal footing, creating spaces that foster connection.

    Because every person has dignity and value, we approach everyone with openness, cultural sensitivity, hospitality, and sometimes even appropriate humor. This means our work is accessible to people regardless of ethnicity, religion, political beliefs, or sexual orientation. From this respect arises connection, enabling genuine community and friendship—and creating spaces for everyone involved. We foster connection freely.

  • Impactful & empowering

    We are generous and innovative to create sustainable solutions for the future.

    Driven by our belief that every person—both current and future generations—deserves a livable future, we apply creativity to develop solutions with long-lasting impact. In doing so, we are generous and strive for professional excellence, always ensuring that our actions open up future possibilities for others and strengthen sustainable livelihoods for project participants. We work in an impactful and empowering way.

  • Simple & committed

    We are committed to making things simple.

    Two things define our work: we act decisively, and we make life easier for others. This determination is reflected in our courage and maximum efficiency. At the same time, we remain flexible, understandable, and clear. We act simply and with commitment.

  • Holistic & fulfilling

    We consider the whole picture, in order to bless others through our service-oriented actions.

    Our work is focused on the entire living environment of those we engage with—such as the spiritual and cultural values, as well as the social, economic, ecological, and political context of project participants. We believe that this is the only way to invite people to participate and, in doing so, become a source of enrichment for them. We serve in a holistic and fulfilling way.

  • Genuine & fair

    We act respectfully and approachably by being truthful and transparent.

    Our work is based on fundamental and human rights. These require us to work together in a respectful, inclusive and understanding manner. We consistently stand up for them and for peacebuilding in an authentic and transparent manner - even if it is unconventional or brings us criticism. We are genuinely fair.

"I am inspired by how consistently ena has remained true to its values over the last 40 years - and yet has always set out to remain a forward-looking and innovative aid organization."

Marianne Streiff
President of the Ena Association (Switzerland)

Publications

Learn more.

Would you like to get to know us even better? We have put together exciting background information and materials for interested parties.