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ABOUT TZU CHI

MISSION

To alleviate the suffering of the most vulnerable in society through humanitarian assistance and education, empowering
individuals and communities to become self-sustainable.
VISION
A world in which the vulnerable becomes empowered and finds the strength to help others in need, forming a cycle of
compassion and gratitude.

ORGANIZATION HISTORY
The Buddhist Tzu Chi Foundation (BTCF) is a non-profit volunteer-based international non-governmental organization with
headquarters in San Dimas, California and 82 offices in 28 states. The organization was established by a Buddhist nun,
Dharma Master Cheng Yen in 1966. Originally starting with a group of 30 female homemakers who saved approximately 2

cents from their grocery budget each day to help the less fortunate, Tzu Chi has now grown to over 7 million supporters in
70 countries around the world. “Tzu Chi,” which literally means “Compassionate Relief,” is in another sense, “to serve with
compassion,” an act which is held true by all Tzu Chi volunteers, individuals guided by the principles of kindness, compassion,
joy, and unconditional giving. The foundation has dedicated itself in the field of community and social services, national and
international disaster relief, medical and charitable aid, education, environmental protection, bone marrow donor registry, and
the promotion of humanistic values and community volunteerism.