The Congregation of our lady of charity of the Good Shepherd became affiliated with the United Nations as a Nongovernmental Organization (NGO) in consultative status with ECOSOC in November 1996. The purpose of this affiliation is to further our mission of reconciliation, particularly in its orientation toward girls and women. Through this means of collaboration we work to bring about change in whatever conditions condemn others to a marginalized life. Through our affiliation with the goals of the UN, we seek to extend mercy to the poor and to the oppressed, awakening our world to the dignity and value of each person.