HELPS International was founded in 1984 as a 501(c)(3) charitable foundation in the tradition of service to others. HELPS programs extend a helping hand to people who then learn to become self-sufficient, giving them hope for a better life for them and a future for their children.

HELPS' volunteers from around the world offer programs to all people regardless of ethnicity, social standing, political involvement, or religious belief.

HELPS believes in a world of liberty, stability, and personal opportunity. To achieve these goals, HELPS  integrates its programs into the areas of healthcare, education, economic development, and home transformation. HELPS works together with other non-governmental organizations (NGOs), private enterprise, and cooperates with local and national governments to promote sustainability of its programs. 

HELPS strives for permanent change in communities through its programs, and promotes mutual respect, responsibility, and partnership with local infrastructure. This integrated approach ensures cohesiveness in cultural, medical, spiritual and economic affairs of the rural population.