Oasis started life as a hostel for homeless young people in London in 1985. More than two decades on, and Oasis now has over 400 staff, students and volunteers working in 11 countries across the globe. Oasis India was founded in 1994 as the second member of the Oasis Global family which shares a common vision, mission and outcomes. Our work around the world reflects a common ethos of equality, inclusion, excellence, transparency and innovation. Over the years, several projects based around communities have been run offering inclusive and holistic solutions to people bound by various situations of abuse and vulnerability through education, training, health care, psycho-social care, micro-finance initiatives and residential rehabilitation.

Oasis is a Christian organisation whose motivation comes from the example of Jesus Christ. We believe everyone is made in God’s image and work towards creating safe and inclusive communities where everyone is allowed to reach their full potential. We believe that God’s love is for everyone; it’s inclusive – regardless of any differences we may see on a human level. We believe that we, as people who love God, should demonstrate that love in the same way. It is for this reason that we work in some of the poorest communities in India and overseas with the aim of bringing transformation – socially, emotionally, educationally and physically - helping people to live life to the fullest.

We don’t ask people to behave in certain ways or believe certain things before we are willing to work with them. Instead, we recognize that many people need a place to belong – it is out of that sense of belonging that their belief starts to grow and it is out of their belief that their behaviour starts to change. Our logo incorporates what we call our “Circle of Inclusion” which reminds us that everyone is included when it comes to God’s love. And when everyone, whatever their situation, their problems, beliefs, hopes and fears, is included, life becomes a little bit messy (just like our circle) but it also becomes the richest and most fulfilling experience.

While our projects reflect the heart of Oasis’ global vision for communities characterized by love and acceptance, we have learned that it takes commitment, demands ownership and is a gradual process. We have learned that people, despite their different backgrounds and circumstances, possess unique potential, require individual care and have different dreams for better lifestyles. At Oasis, we believe that by walking alongside people and communities and affording them the right input and attention, we are contributing towards creating positive communities that give people the opportunity and dignity to find their voice and address injustice.

To read more about the work of the global family, log on to www.oasisglobal.org