In Chennai’s frantic metropolis, among the buzz of daily life, a number of amazing NGOs have emerged and are subtly but effectively affecting the lives of the city’s citizens. The mission of these organisations is to solve urgent social concerns, offer assistance where it is most needed, and build a better future for the impoverished. Here, we introduce you to seven such NGOs in Chennai, each of which has a distinct goal and an impact on the community and has been working relentlessly to serve it.
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Ability FoundationÂ
Founded: 1995
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600020
Ability Foundation stands as a hope for persons with disabilities in Chennai. Established in 1995, this national cross-disability organisation has worked tirelessly to empower and mainstream individuals with disabilities. Their initiatives span publishing, media, counselling, advocacy, training, and employment. Ability Foundation firmly believes in an inclusive society, advocating for equal opportunities and a level playing field for persons with disabilities. Through their unwavering commitment, they aim to break down stereotypes and change public attitudes towards disabled individuals.
Bhagwan Mahaveer FoundationÂ
Founded: 1994
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600084
In 1994, Shri N Sugalchand Jain established the Bhagwan Mahaveer Foundation with a noble purpose: to recognise, encourage, and honour individuals and institutions serving the underprivileged and weak in society. The foundation’s flagship initiative, the Mahaveer Awards, celebrates excellence in domains like non-violence and vegetarianism, education, medicine, and community and social service. These awards highlight the exceptional contributions of generous individuals and inspire others to follow in their footsteps.
DATRI Blood Stem Cell Donor RegistryÂ
Founded: 2009
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600113
DATRI, a not-for-profit organisation, was founded in 2009 with a life-saving mission: to find unrelated matched donors for patients with life-threatening blood disorders. With over 4.6 Lakh registered donors, DATRI is India’s largest registry. Any healthy individual aged 18 to 50 can register as a blood stem cell donor, potentially becoming a lifesaver for someone in need. DATRI tirelessly works to create a diverse database of potential donors to save lives through stem cell transplants.
Hindu Mission HospitalÂ
Industry: Hospitals, Healthcare, NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Sub-Industry: Hospitals, Clinics
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600045
Hindu Mission Hospital has been a healthcare lifeline for Chennai’s residents for nearly four decades. Situated on GST Road, this 300-bed charitable institution is accessible to urban and rural populations. With NABL and NABH accreditation, it provides high-quality, timely healthcare solutions. Their commitment to serving the underprivileged and focusing on medical care for all makes them a trusted institution in the city.
The Banyan Adaikalam
Founded: 1993
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600037
Banyan Adaikalam was born from a chance encounter with a homeless woman in Chennai in 1993. Vandana Gopikumar and Vaishnavi Jayakumar realised that no services addressed the needs of marginalised homeless women with mental illness. It led to the founding of The Banyan, which strives to provide support and rehabilitation for individuals with mental health issues. With 150 million Indians estimated to have mental health issues, organisations like The Banyan are crucial in addressing this critical but often neglected aspect of healthcare.
AIM for SevaÂ
Founded: 2000
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600004
AIM for Seva, founded by Pujya Swami Dayananda Saraswati, is dedicated to enabling children from rural and tribal areas to access quality education. Their journey began in 2001 with the establishment of free student hostels called Chatralayams. Today, AIM for Seva’s reach extends across 16 states, encompassing various education, healthcare, and community development projects. Their commitment to empowering underprivileged children and communities makes them a significant force for positive change.
World Vision IndiaÂ
Founded: 1958
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600024
World Vision India is a prominent child-focused humanitarian organisation with over seven decades of experience. Their extensive grassroots presence empowers vulnerable children and communities living in poverty and injustice. They work in partnership with governments, civil societies, donors, and corporations to address issues affecting children. World Vision India’s mission reflects Christ’s unconditional love for all people, emphasising the well-being of children, education, awareness of fundamental rights, and community development.
Life Help Centre for the Handicapped
Founded: 1978
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Neelangarai, Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600115
Life Help Centre for the Handicapped is a non-profit organisation that aims to empower and support individuals with disabilities- established to create a better future for those facing physical and mental challenges and to provide them with the resources and tools necessary to lead fulfilling and productive lives. Since its inception, Life Help Centre has been reaching out to various sectors like Disability, Education, Rehabilitation, Training and Employment, Health Services, Rural Development, Disaster Relief and support for the vulnerable groups.Â
Bhumi
Founded: 2006
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Teynampet, Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600018
Bhumi Registered Societies is a non-governmental organisation promoting social welfare and community development. The organisation is committed to positively impacting the lives of individuals and communities in need by providing education, healthcare, and livelihood opportunities. Bhumi Registered Societies believes in the power of collective action and works closely with local communities, government bodies, and other NGOs to achieve its goals. Bhumi has transformed this conviction into a volunteering opportunity for India’s youth, launching a snowball effect of nurturing talent on the path to an educated, poverty-free India.
Ekam Foundation
Founded: 2006
Industry: NGOs, Trust, Charitable Institutions
Location: Nungambakkam, Chennai / Tamil Nadu – 600018
EKAM Foundation is a not-for-profit organisation in India that aims to provide quality healthcare to underprivileged children and mothers. Their vision is to contribute to the reduction of infant, childhood, adolescent, and maternal mortality rates. EKAM focuses on the reproductive, maternal, newborn, child, and adolescent health (RMNCHA) sector, collaborating with the public health system. They provide training to nurses, support in maintaining critical equipment, transportation for sick infants, and medical supplies in select government hospitals. Over the years, EKAM has reached out to more than 1.08 million children and their families through various initiatives.Â
FAQs
What is an NGO?
An NGO stands for Non-Governmental Organisation. It’s a non-profit entity that works independently of the government.
How many NGOs are there in Chennai?
There are hundreds of NGOs operating in Chennai.
What do NGOs in Chennai do?
NGOs in Chennai engage in various activities, such as—education, healthcare, environmental conservation, and social welfare.
Can I volunteer for an NGO in Chennai?
Yes, many NGOs in Chennai welcome volunteers. Contact them directly to inquire about opportunities.
Are NGOs in Chennai only focused on local issues?
No, some NGOs in Chennai also work on regional, national, and international issues.
Are NGOs in Chennai required to register?
Yes, NGOs in Chennai need to register under the appropriate government authorities.
What types of causes do NGOs in Chennai support?
NGOs in Chennai work on a variety of causes, including education, healthcare, women's empowerment, child welfare, environmental conservation, poverty alleviation, and more.
How can I donate to NGOs in Chennai?
NGOs in Chennai often accept donations through their websites, bank transfers, or by visiting their offices in person. Some NGOs may also have online fundraising campaigns or partnerships with donation platforms.
Do NGOs in Chennai provide assistance during natural disasters or emergencies?
Yes, many NGOs in Chennai and across India actively participate in relief and rehabilitation efforts during natural disasters, emergencies, and crisis situations.
Can I collaborate with NGOs in Chennai for corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives?
Yes, many corporations and businesses collaborate with NGOs in Chennai for CSR projects. You can reach out to NGOs directly to explore partnership opportunities aligned with your company's CSR goals.
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