OlamAid was founded on the belief that people in crisis need rapid, effective, and culturally sensitive support. In 2016, we developed our first program for intercultural mental health and psychosocial support (MHPSS). As an organization with a Jewish background and a multicultural focus, we have tailored our assistance to the diverse needs of vulnerable communities from the very beginning. This means people who experience higher risk during a crisis due to characteristics such as age, health status, ethnicity, socioeconomic status, or geographic location, and who therefore need additional protection and support.
Since then, our approach has evolved: today, OlamAid provides a wide range of aid and support programs tailored to the diverse needs of vulnerable communities. As an independent and non-political humanitarian organization, we have continuously expanded our impact, successfully implementing more than 20 national and international projects for particularly vulnerable communities and minorities in crisis situations – especially in contexts of war, displacement, and natural disasters.
Through the active involvement of participants, OlamAid has grown into a pluralistic organization that embraces diversity and focuses on local knowledge and the needs of communities at the center of its work. Our approach of combining short-term emergency aid with rehabilitation, enables us to strengthen communities in the medium and long term.
For this work, OlamAid was awarded the National Integration Prize by German Chancellor Angela Merkel in 2018. A recognition that is both an obligation and a motivation for us to continue our mission.
OlamAid is a European, Jewish-based pluralistic aid organisation. We provide global emergency relief and rehabilitation by addressing psychosocial and physical needs throughout all stages of humanitarian crises. Guided by international humanitarian principles, our objective is to ensure resilient and self-sustained communities.
Respect – We act with respect and demonstrate our appreciation to our team members, beneficiaries, and stakeholders. We acknowledge the unique qualities and contributions made by each individual. By treating others with compassion and dignity regardless of their background, we create supportive environments that foster collaboration and well-being.
Sustainability – We strive for a long-lasting impact by upholding responsible and ethical practices for the benefit of our stakeholders and the environment. Our collaboration with local communities is tailored to address their individual needs, promoting resilience and self-sufficiency while fostering a positive environment of change and growth.
Reliability – We deliver on our promises, ensuring a reliable support system and fulfilment of our commitments to all stakeholders. By cultivating trust and transparency, we act on our commitment to making a lasting impact. Our emphasis on accountability strengthens our relationship with our teams and stakeholders, ensuring the effective use of resources in supporting the needs of beneficiaries.
Adaptability – We believe that the ability for quick adaptation is vital to addressing the dynamic and continuously changing needs of the people and communities we serve. Combining our expertise with local know-how and innovative concepts helps us meet the challenges at hand.
Empowerment – We are committed to the promotion of attributes such as self-reliance and resilience. We believe in unlocking the potential of individuals and communities by equipping them with tools, skills, and access to opportunities to create an environment in which they take charge and become agents of change.
Inclusion – We champion inclusivity by embracing diversity. We are committed to fostering inclusivity across cultures, religions, and backgrounds, promoting a collaborative environment. By embracing individual perspectives and strengths, we enhance our ability to build resilient and self-sustained communities.
At OlamAid, our strength lies in our team members. Our team of over 70 dedicated staff, experts, and contributors is supported by a larger network of over 100 volunteers who form the backbone of our work in the field.The OlamAid team is interdisciplinary and multicultural. Its Jewish background is complemented by a local approach: OlamAid recognizes the special skills and experiences of affected communities and places a special focus on recruiting employees from these communities. This has resulted in a team from 13 countries that combines professional competence, outstanding motivation, and personal resilience. This is continuously strengthened at OlamAid through individual supervision and group intervision.
