Building Resilient Communities and
Cultivating Dignity
WE’VE IMPACTED
LIVES!
Our Impact
CREATING LASTING CHANGE
Recent Awards
AWARDED THE “TOP 20 MOST TRUSTED NGO’S” BY
THE INDIAN CSR AWARDS
Our Focus
Building resilient communities and
cultivating dignity
Our Story
Inspiring Transformation and Empowering Dreams
In 1997, the Desai Foundation’s story began – ignited by the vision of Samir A. Desai and Nilima Desai. Their mission was simple yet profound: to give back to the communities that had shaped them.
Samir, a tech trailblazer, directed our efforts towards transformative corners of the world: Metro-Boston, MA, the vibrant tapestry of Morningside Heights & Harlem, NY, and the heartland of south Gujarat, India. Our purpose was clear – to uplift those who had been our pillars.
Throughout the years, compassion led to strong partnerships. We co-created programs, expanded horizons, and pioneered initiatives. Responding to growth, we evolved into a public foundation, empowering women and children through health and livelihood initiatives in India and the U.S.
Our belief: solutions come from within the community. Empowered communities drive deep change. Dignity restoration isn’t just a goal, it’s at our core. With every step, partnership, and heart touched, the Desai Foundation redefines compassion and collaboration. Together, we’re creating a world where dreams flourish beyond challenges, celebrating each person’s potential.
Our Pledge
Every dollar raised goes directly to programs that change lives for women and girls in rural India. Our staff and infrastructure are supported by the founding endowment from the Desai Family and its Board Members.
Beneficiary Stories
Stories From the Ground
Get Involved
how TO SUPPORT our work
Empower Change: Donate Today!
Donate to the Desai Foundation
Transform Lives
Empower health, education, and livelihood programs.
Support Menstrual Equity
Ensure dignity for women and girls.
Healthcare Heroes
Give for accessible healthcare in underserved areas.
Empower Women: Give Monthly!
Champion gender equality through your support every month.
Sponsor a Program, Empower a Community
Bring Impactful Programs to Life
Make a lasting impact by sponsoring a specific program or supporting our programming in specific states across India where we work. You can also play a pivotal role in expanding our reach, helping us bring vital programming to new states.
Looking for something innovative? Consider sponsoring one of our pilot programs, which rely on visionary partners like you for funding. Contact us to learn more or to request state-specific one-pagers detailing how you can support this meaningful work. Together, we can cultivate dignity and create transformative change for women and girls.
Fundraise for The Desai Foundation and Empower Change
Host an Event, Build a Campaign
Host a Cocktail & Chaat—a casual gathering in your home, a restaurant, or any space where friends can come together, enjoy snacks, and learn about the incredible work we do. You can also celebrate your special day by creating a birthday campaign or get involved through peer-to-peer fundraising.
We’ll support you every step of the way, including creating a customized fundraising page tailored to your event or initiative. Together, we can create a ripple effect, transforming lives through education, vocational training, and health programs.
Amplify Your Impact Through Corporate Collaboration
Corporate Partnerships
Collaborate with us to create impactful partnerships that align with your corporate social responsibility goals. From event sponsorships, cash contributions, and gift bag support to in-kind services or corporate giving programs, there are many ways for your company to make a difference. We also welcome corporate matching programs if your company matches employee donations, we’d love to connect!
Be a Changemaker in Your Community
Volunteer Opportunities
There are countless ways to make an impact. By giving your time, attending an event, connecting us with donors or grantors, and more. Join our vibrant community of changemakers and lend your time and talents to support our programs.
News
Latest News and Updates
Events
Upcoming events
Experience the Magic of Our Signature Events!
From the vibrant lights of Diwali on the Hudson in NYC to the cultural richness of the Lotus Festival in Boston, and the global charm of Cocktails and Chat, our events promise unforgettable moments.
Events Supporting a Cause
Every event contributes to supporting programming for women and children in rural India. Join us in making a positive impact!
Events
Upcoming events
Here’s all the exciting things you can expect this year:
From the vibrant lights of Diwali on the Hudson in NYC to the cultural richness of the Lotus Festival in Boston, and the global charm of Cocktails and Chat, our events promise an opportunity to celebrate, connect, and make an impact.
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JOIN THE COMMUNITY
Follow the Desai foundation
Connect with us on social media! We share inspiring stories from the ground, upcoming events, and more about the work we do.