Who We Are

“A lot of people struggle, whether you live in a reservation or in the big city. We are struggling to live up to our hopes, hoping for peace.”

— Alex

ATD Fourth World USA builds supportive communities to counter poverty.

MISSION STATEMENT

Founded in a creative grassroots approach, ATD Fourth World USA integrates the expertise of those most marginalized into building supportive communities to counter the culture, institutions and systems that trap people in persistent poverty.

VISION STATEMENT

ATD Fourth World USA envisions a society free from the stigma, subjugation, and injustice which prolong poverty; and a future where everyone thrives in dignity.

CORE VALUES

Dignity
We place human rights at the center of our approach to poverty eradication. We reject the idea that anyone is useless or disposable.

Most marginalized
We know that meaningful participation and the expertise of those most isolated are required for transformation into a just society. 

Presence
We stand in solidarity and mutual understanding, by reaching out and being rooted in communities facing persistent poverty.

Community
We create caring community with people from all backgrounds, relying on each other to leave no one behind and to resist the worst conditions of poverty and exclusion.

Justice
We challenge, within a social justice network, a society that places profit over people and advocate prioritizing human well-being. 

Creativity
We integrate art, stories, questions, and reflection to develop innovative tools for mutual transformation.