Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe (“Help for Self-Help”) is a German-based humanitarian and development organisation active in Kosovo since 2001, resuming operations in 2015 after a short pause.
We work with individuals and communities to build self-reliance through sustainable livelihoods, vocational training, entrepreneurship, social inclusion, and environmental initiatives.
We envision a world without misery, poverty and social inequality. Our goal is to enable people to take charge of their own life and live independently in dignity, peace and security.
In line with its principle of assisting people towards self-reliance, Help works together with people in need, irrespective of their gender, age, political views or religious beliefs, by providing immediate aid in the aftermath of catastrophes and by making sustainable contributions to reconstruction and rehabilitation efforts in all areas of life. Our underlying long-term objective is to reduce the vulnerability of communities to new conflicts or extreme natural disasters. People and the preservation of human dignity are the focus of everything we do.
- Economic Empowerment– Supporting micro and small businesses, including those run by former inmates, through mentoring, grants, and access to modern technologies. We work closely with all entrepreneurs to diversify income sources and strengthen resilience.
- Entrepreneurship & Business Development – Training and mentoring in business planning, finance, marketing, and growth strategies.
- Social Inclusion & Gender Equality – Prioritising women, youth, and marginalised groups, including inmates, in all programs.
- Environmental Sustainability – Promoting renewable energy, waste management, and eco-friendly income activities such as agritourism and beekeeping.
Supporting Reintegration
Through a long-standing partnership with the Kosovo Correctional Services, Help provides vocational training and grants to inmates preparing for release. This support gives them the tools, skills, and resources needed to start or grow a business, improving their economic prospects and easing their reintegration into society.
- Community-driven – We plan projects with municipalities, local stakeholders, and community representatives.
- Fair & Transparent – Two-step selection process with municipal involvement.
- Capacity Building – Tailored business and vocational training with ongoing mentorship.
- Local First – Equipment sourced from local suppliers to boost the economy.
- Ongoing Support – Regular monitoring and feedback to adapt programs and ensure lasting results.
- Ministry of Justice of Kosovo – Recognition for correctional and reintegration programs.
- Kosovo Correctional Services – Acknowledged for vocational training and grants supporting inmates.
- EU Award for Roma Integration – For advancing Roma employment
Since Help was founded more than 40 years ago, we have consistently worked according to the principle of empowerment. We provide effective emergency aid in the event of disasters and are committed to the sustainable fight against poverty, hunger and disease worldwide.
On July 15, 1981, members of parliament from all parties represented in the Bundestag at the time, as well as personalities from academia and the church, gathered at Frankfurt Airport. Their goal: to help the millions of people who were displaced as a result of the Soviet military intervention in Afghanistan. Together they founded the aid organization “Help – Hilfe zur Selbsthilfe”.
Today, Help is active in over 20 countries, helping people affected by humanitarian crises such as conflicts or natural disasters to lead a self-determined life. Empowering people remains at the heart of our project work and determines our actions.
