Beginning in 1983 with an initial project in the Algarve region of Portugal, A Rocha has been helping to change the face of environmental stewardship--bringing to it our faith in the God who created it, called it very good, and entrusted its care to humankind. Now at work in 19 countries on five continents, our work is identified by five core commitments and to a practical outworking of each:

• CHRISTIAN - Underlying all we do is our biblical faith in the living God, who made the world, loves it and entrusts it to the care of human society. 

• CONSERVATION - We carry out research for the conservation and restoration of the natural world and run environmental education programmes for people of all ages. 

• COMMUNITY - Through our commitment to God, each other and the wider creation, we aim to develop good relationships both within the A Rocha family and in our local communities. 

• CROSS-CULTURAL - We draw on the insights and skills of people from diverse cultures, both locally and around the world.

• COOPERATION - We work in partnership with a wide variety of organisations and individuals who share our concerns for a sustainable world.

In the United States, A Rocha provides educational programs and hands-on conservation projects in communities across the nation. Our goal: restoring the environment and the people, plants and animals that depend upon it. Driven by local context, local need and local leadership, our exact efforts vary--ranging from organic gardens to watershed protection to habitat restoration to species monitoring. Whatever the focus, our work bears several distinctives:

Scientific research and conservation. We conduct research that furthers the understanding and protection of natural habitats and populations, especially those in urgent need, and use that research to guide our conservation projects. 

The role of the church in caring for creation. We work to lead and equip the church toward a fuller understanding and a more active expression of its biblical mandate to steward the Earth.

The needs of human beings. We work to integrate and balance the needs of humans with those of the nonhuman world for the benefit and protection of both.

Open participation. We welcome and encourage people of all backgrounds and faiths to be a part of the work.

The example of Christ. We endeavor to be a living expression to all with whom we work of Christ's love and concern for all of His creation.

Hope. In the face of ever-increasing environmental degradation, we bring a message of hope based on the help of God the Creator who cares for His creation.

In addition to our efforts in the United States, A Rocha USA supports our sister organizations abroad through financial assistance, publicity and the sending of volunteers.