We are a nonprofit organization who for over 40 years have mobilized our international network of social services agencies to protect and reunite children, individuals and families separated by borders.
ISS History
International Beginnings
The International Social Service (ISS) is an international NGO
founded in 1924, following the war, in order to reunite families. Today
it has grown into a network of over 120 national
entities governed by the General Secretariat (Geneva, Switzerland) in
order to assist children, individuals and families confronted with
complex social problems as a result of migration.
Our History
In Canada
ISS services began in the 1950’s as a program of the Canadian Welfare Council. In 1979, International Social Service Canada was federally incorporated as a non-profit organization and accepted by the ISS International Council in Geneva as the Canadian Branch of International Social Service.
ISS Canada is governed by a national volunteer Board of Directors. ISS Canada provides the vital link between Canadian agencies and government departments and the ISS international network in order to assist them in resolving problematic individual and family situations that cross national borders.
ISS Canada accesses social services worldwide through the global network of International Social Service. Complex family matters arising from differing cultural, legal, political and social situations make ISS an indispensable resource for government departments, social service agencies and other organizations needing assistance to resolve complex cases that cross national borders.
Our Mission
Mobilize international networks to protect and reunite children, individuals and families separated by borders.
Our Vision
We envision a world where the rights of children, families and individuals are protected, defended and supported in situations of forced or voluntary migration.
Our Values
We believe
In a world where people are safe, protected and supported without discrimination.
That people have a right to a safe environment that supports positive development of their well-being and sense of belonging.
In the strength of our global network and partnerships with national and local organizations.
We are committed
to human rights, social justice, professional integrity and service excellence.
We promote
and protect the integrity and the dignity of all human beings.
Our board and staff
We would not be able to operate and assist the number of people we do without the contribution of these key players.
Governance
The Board of Directors of ISS Canada is made up of experienced professionals in the fields of social work, youth protection, migrant populations, and intergovernmental relations who are committed to protecting children and adults and reuniting families separated by borders.
