The SSSIO is a spiritual and humanitarian organization founded by Sri Sathya Sai Baba and has been active for over 50 years globally. Sri Sathya Sai Centres and Groups were established in the late 1960s in many countries by His overseas devotees, to carry forth the message of Bhagawan Baba and do His work. A World Council was formed by Bhagawan in 1980, and in 1987 He dissolved it in favor of national organizations to suit the local cultures and conditions, and for operational efficiency. The Prasanthi Council was formed by Swami in 2003 for the administration of the SSSIO.

Subsequently the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation (SSSWF) was formed as per divine directive in 2006. The announcement was published in the March 2006 Sanathana Sarathi: “By the divine command of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba, the Sri Sathya Sai World Foundation will henceforth assume responsibility for the governance of all functions of the SSSIO. The foundation will work together with the Prasanthi Council to accomplish the administration of these Organizations.” The SSSWF is registered as a 501(c)(3) public charitable foundation in California, USA. It supports the humanitarian relief projects and other works of the SSSIO around the world.

The Charter and Guidelines of the SSSIO were developed under the personal guidance of Bhagawan Sri Sathya Sai Baba. The SSSIO has been expanding the divine mission of Bhagawan since the inception, and selflessly serving its officers, members, and the public around the globe.

The Organization carries forth the mission started by Sri Sathya Sai Baba who, by His selfless love, universal spiritual teachings, and exemplary life dedicated to social service, touched the hearts of millions of people all over the world.

Its goal is to help people realize the Divine Principle innate in every human being. This is achieved by doing selfless service and achieving self-transformation by practicing the five universal human values of Truth, Right Conduct, Peace, Love, and Nonviolence. This Divine Principle within is expressed by manifesting love in thought, word, and deed. The SSSIO promotes and practices harmony of religions and unity of faiths. It includes people from all religions, faiths, and nationalities. The quest for knowing the ultimate truth about oneself, living in accordance with one’s higher consciousness, and serving society is the mission of all Sri Sathya Sai Centers and Groups spread in over 110 countries.

The vast network and operations of this international organization is managed through an organizational structure shown below.