Institute for Capacity Strengthening

Since 1943, CRS has worked with local organizations to develop and implement relief and development programs. CRS’s approach is firmly grounded in its principles, derived from the body of knowledge called Catholic Social Teaching, notably that people and organizations in their own context are best suited to identify and address their particular development needs. CRS also believes deeply that partnership is a better way to do development and find sustainable and effective solutions. CRS’ approach to development is the belief that healthy institutions are better able to provide consistent and quality services. Since the early 2000s, CRS has applied a theory of change grounded in the concept of Integral Human Development (IHD), which promotes the good of the whole person and every person.