Beyond basic necessities such as food, housing, clothing and access to medical care, sponsored members frequently utilize their benefits to pay for education costs or to start or expand small business ventures.
Bob and Jerry were both missionaries who had witnessed firsthand the effects of poverty in developing countries, so they formed a sponsorship organization based on Catholic social teaching.
The former president and CEO, Scott Wasserman, said that rather than a bunch of initials, what "Bob wanted was a single word capturing the essence of Catholic social teaching and empowering the poor.
Sponsorship requires a $40 monthly commitment to help fund basic necessities and, in many instances, livelihood programs to help families become self-sustaining.
Ninety-eight percent of Unbound sponsored friends participate in programs that deliver benefits through direct cash transfers.
Recipients are selected by local Unbound staff based on economic need, commitment to completing their education, demonstrated leadership potential and interest in community service.