CBM (charity)

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Logo-Christoffel-Blindenmission

CBM (formerly known as Christian Blind Mission) is an international Christian organization committed to improving the quality of life of people with disabilities in the poorest communities of the world. Based on Christian values, CBM addresses disability as a cause and consequence of poverty and works in partnership with local and national organizations to create an inclusive society for all.

History

CBM was founded in 1908 by Ernst Jakob Christoffel, a German Christian missionary, in Turkey. Initially focused on providing education and rehabilitation for blind children, the organization has since expanded its services to include a wide range of programs aimed at preventing and treating blindness, as well as supporting people with other disabilities. Over the years, CBM has grown into a global organization, operating in over 60 countries and reaching millions of people worldwide.

Mission and Vision

The mission of CBM is to transform the lives of people with disabilities, their families, and their communities in the poorest places of the world. CBM envisions an inclusive world in which all people with disabilities enjoy their human rights and achieve their full potential.

Areas of Work

CBM's work encompasses a variety of areas, including:

• Health care: Providing access to medical and rehabilitative care to prevent and treat conditions leading to disability.
• Education: Supporting inclusive education systems that enable children with disabilities to learn alongside their peers.
• Livelihoods: Empowering people with disabilities to secure sustainable employment and income.
• Disaster response: Ensuring that people with disabilities are included in emergency relief efforts and long-term recovery plans.
• Advocacy: Promoting the rights of people with disabilities at local, national, and international levels.

Partnerships

CBM collaborates with local partners, including hospitals, schools, and disability organizations, to implement its programs. The organization also works closely with governments and international agencies to advocate for policies and practices that support the inclusion of people with disabilities.

Impact

CBM's impact is seen in the lives of individuals who have gained access to essential services, the communities that have become more inclusive, and the policies that have been influenced to recognize the rights of people with disabilities. Through its comprehensive approach, CBM strives to address the barriers that prevent people with disabilities from participating fully in society.

Funding

CBM's work is funded through donations from individuals, churches, and organizations, as well as grants from governments and international bodies. The organization places a strong emphasis on transparency and accountability in its financial practices.

See Also

• Disability rights movement
• Inclusive education
• International development