This is what we do
The Horyzon Foundation was established in 1969 and is currently active in six different countries: Haiti, Colombia, Uganda, Togo, Palestine, and Nepal. Horyzon works to support young people in these regions, guiding them on their path to becoming independent adults.
Horyzon's projects aim to improve the living conditions and health of young people while providing educational opportunities. Based on the principle of "helping people to help themselves," young individuals learn to stand up for their rights and take control of their lives. They, in turn, pass on their knowledge to peers and serve as role models for younger children in their communities. With an annual budget of around 1.5 million Swiss Francs, Horyzon’s projects directly reach over 5,000 youth each year, and indirectly benefit around 10,000 young people and their families.
Why we are committed to
Social, economic, and environmental problems, along with increasing inequalities, are among the greatest global challenges of our time. Those most affected by these issues are countries marked by crises and poverty, where young people, in particular, are often left to fend for themselves and face a future without prospects.
With more than 1.8 billion young people worldwide, youth represents the largest generation to ever exist. Nearly 90 percent of them live in countries affected by poverty, where they make up a significant portion of the population. Their social, political, and economic participation is crucial for enabling them to transition into self-determined adulthood. When young people acquire the necessary skills and opportunities to unlock their full potential, they can become a driving force for development, contributing to peace and inclusion.
How we work
The aim of Horyzon is to empower young people in countries of the Global South so that they can live a self-determined and independent life. To reach this goal, the young people are supported with a wide range of courses, workshops, individual and group discussions and various therapy options. The projects are carried out locally by Horyzon's partner organizations, the international youth associations YMCA and YWCA (Young Men's / Women's Christian Association). Local employees, who themselves have lived in the respective countries for generations, implement the activities and are in close contact with the young people. This means that encounters can take place on an equal footing and the employees are familiar with the needs of the population as well as the cultures and languages.
Horyzon accompanies the partner organizations through professional fundraising, project monitoring, and evaluations. The organization follows a partnership-based approach, prioritizing mutual exchange, learning from each other, and advancing together. In Switzerland, Horyzon maintains a broad network within Cevi (YMCA / YWCA Switzerland) and advocates for international cooperation. Horyzon adheres to international standards and holds the ZEWO quality seal.
Horyzon is guided by the defined mission, vision and values of the foundation. In addition, Horyzon attributes great importance to ensuring the responsibility and accountability of all employees and to protecting project participants. The Horyzon Code of Conduct is binding for all employees, volunteers and Foundation Board members and is an integral part of the employment contract.