Our identity and history
Together we make Dorcas work
We collaborate with partner organisations, government institutions, volunteers, donors and more to deliver tailor-made humanitarian programmes based on peoples reality. Together is a key word for us. Together we make Dorcas work.
Our presence is never fleeting. We harness sustainable development models — working closely with community leaders, local networks and project participants on the ground — to turn temporary solutions into lasting change.
United, we act for and with people in need. Together, we work to realise new opportunities. This is how we create space for dignity and future prospects. Lives are reshaped, communities grow stronger and social awareness of justice and equality increases.
History
Dorcas was founded in 1980 when Dirk Jan and Janneke Groot began providing assistance to people in Eastern Europe who were being persecuted for their faith. In the 1990s, the organisation expanded its activities to Africa — and, in the last decade, to the Middle East.
Today we are active in 13 countries in 3 regions — working to improve the resilience and livelihoods of people living in poverty, exclusion and crisis.
Thousands of volunteers in Dorcas Shops, in Dorcas depots, working in groups and in local churches are the heart of our organisation. 2020 marked the 25th edition of the Dorcas Food Campaign — thanks to more than 700 communities across the Netherlands.
The origin of our name
Dorcas is the name of a woman in the Bible. She noticed people who were often overlooked and took action. The compassion that drove her is reflected in the organisation Dorcas was, is and aspires to be. Her approach is also how Dorcas aims to work today: we see what happens, do what is necessary and contribute to lasting change. We believe every person is valuable and has the right to a dignified existence.
