HOPE worldwide was founded in 1991 in response to the call of the Scriptures to serve the poor, sick and suffering throughout the world. The ministry of the International Churches of Christ wanted to fulfill the teachings of Matthew 25 to serve anyone in need. It is through this invaluable partnership that HOPE worldwide began and continues to thrive. 

The organization started with just three small programs dedicated to bringing hope to vulnerable communities. In Abidjan, Ivory Coast, HOPE worldwide established an HIV/AIDS clinic to meet the critical health needs of a country plagued with disease. A medical clinic in Mexico City, Mexico, provided treatment for children without access to quality healthcare.

Children were also the focus of educational outreach programs in Bangalore, India. In collaboration with volunteers around the globe, HOPE worldwide quickly expanded its reach, building relationships with partner organizations and mobilizing thousands of volunteers. While maintaining its Biblical foundation, HOPE worldwide was compelled to find new and innovative ways to fight poverty, respond to disasters and foster a culture of volunteerism. Today, HOPE worldwide serves more than 1.5 million people annually on every inhabited continent.