Who we are

CO-OPERAID is a non-profit, politically and confessionally independent, humanitarian Swiss association with its headquarters in Zurich. The association was founded in 1981, has been recognised by the Canton of Zurich as a charitable organisation, and is tax-exempt. It is included in the trade register of the Canton of Zurich. Since 1998 the association has carried the ZEWO seal of approval for charitable organisations. CO-OPERAID is a partner of Swiss Solidarity (Glückskette), of the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation (SDC), and of various cantons and foundations.

CO-OPERAID is active in the field of education and professional education. Its projects help impoverished children and young people in a current total of eight countries in Africa and Asia. The aim of these projects is basic education for all children and the promotion of secondary and vocational education. At the same time the economic situation of the children’s and young people’s families is improved.

CO-OPERAID has a voluntary, unpaid executive board which advises the head office on the planning and implementation of projects. The majority of the board members have a direct connection with one of the project countries. CO-OPERAID’s members help to shape the association’s work and are involved as voluntary helpers.