WE’VE IMPACTED
LIVES
OUR MISSION
We Empower Women and Children through Community Programs to elevate Health, Livelihood, and Menstrual Equity in rural India.
Our Impact
BUILDING scalable, replicable model for localized IMPACT
10 MILLION+
People Have Been Directly Impacted By Our Programs
3,400+
Rural Communities Reached
2.7 million+
Reached From Help Desk
9.9 MILLION+
Sanitary Napkins Produced
75,000+
Children Have Attended Our Health Camps
333,000+
Children Reached With Primary Health & Hygeine
121,075+
Adults Benefited Through Health Camps & Seminars
16,000+
Students Have Been Taught How to Use a Computer
34,000+
Women Have Received Vocational Training
10,700+
Total Students at Lok Vidyalaya School From 2013-2024
23,000+
Benefitted From Gynec Health Camps
11,000+
Women Have Been Taught to Sew
Recent Awards
AWARDED THE “TOP 20 MOST TRUSTED NGO’S” BY THE INDIAN CSR AWARDS
Our Focus
Building resilient communities and cultivating dignity at scale
Health
Livelihood
Menstrual Equity
Climate Resilience
Our Pledge
We focus on unlocking the potential of underserved women and girls because the evidence is clear: when they thrive, families grow stronger, businesses become more resilient, and communities prosper.
Every individual donation is matched 100% by our founder, doubling your impact from day one. And because our operational costs are fully funded by our founding endowment, 100% of your contribution supports scalable, high-impact programs; from better healthcare and education to increased economic opportunity and personal dignity.
Sponsor a Hero
Building Resilient Health Workforce
In any complex system, whether healthcare, financial inclusion, or education, the final mile is often where progress breaks down. Infrastructure exists. Resources exist. But without trusted, local actors to carry that value across the finish line, impact stalls.
Heroes for Humanity is our human-centered solution to that problem, a last-mile delivery system built for rural India, powered by trained, embedded community health workers and local leaders. These Heroes are not outsiders. They live in the very villages they serve, delivering programs with cultural fluency, trust, and consistency that no top-down model can replicate. From menstrual health and hygiene, to diabetes and anemia screenings, to banking literacy and vocational skills, our Heroes are also investing in themselves: gaining training, earning income, building social capital, and stepping into leadership.
When you sponsor a Hero, you’re not just funding a program, you’re investing in the very workforce that makes sustainable rural progress possible. You’re backing a scalable, replicable model for localized, human-powered systems change.
Most Significant Change Stories
Stories From the Ground
I’m Geetaben from Pardi village, Valsad district. At 45, I’ve faced many challenges but always believed in staying strong. I used to work with a group that helped people, but COVID-19 changed everything, and I lost my job. Then, I met the Desai Foundation two years ago, and I really liked their vision. I joined them, and now I’m happy, energetic, and inspiring those around me. My story is about staying strong, finding new ways, and caring for others. It shows that one person’s determination can make life better for many.
I’m Sohani Jat, 20, from Nohata village, Rajasthan. My family relies on farming, and my parents are illiterate. Due to our economic situation, I had to halt my education after the 12th grade. Until recently, I used cloth during my periods, unaware of proper menstrual hygiene practices.
But a Menstrual Hygiene Management (MHM) session through The Desai Foundation Trust’s Heroes for Humanity program changed everything. I learned about menstrual hygiene, the menstrual cycle, and the importance of good hygiene to prevent diseases. I wholeheartedly appreciate the organization’s efforts and urge them to continue the MHM Awareness program.
I’m Jyoti from Jhilai village in Rajasthan. I’m 19 years old, studying in my final year of college. My parents are farmers, and life is tough.
During the pandemic, things got even harder. I didn’t know much about menstrual hygiene, and nobody talked about it in our village. But thanks to a session by the Heroes for Humanity program, I learned why it’s so important. Now, I use sanitary pads, and I want to tell other women about it too. I’m grateful for the help and hope they continue this initiative.
I’m Payal, a 20-year-old from Jhilai village in Rajasthan. I completed my 12th standard, but I didn’t know much about managing money or even the importance of having a bank account. Then, someone from the Desai Foundation Trust came to our village and talked to us about financial literacy. They explained how to save money, the different types of bank accounts, and how to avoid scams.
I was so happy to learn about this. It made me feel more confident and in control of my finances. Now, I know how to make better decisions with my money. Thanks to the Desai Foundation Trust for teaching me these important things.
I’m Sowmiya, 18, from Yercaud, Tamil Nadu, studying B.Sc. Maths. My parents can’t read or write, and I have siblings with limited education. I faced a scholarship application issue due to the lack of a PAN card, and the deadline was looming. The Desai Foundation Trust’s Heroes came to my rescue, explaining its importance and helping me apply.
Their support was incredible. I got my PAN card in time, securing the scholarship that aids my education. I’m grateful for their help and even guided my college friends. My family and I extend a big thanks to the Desai Foundation Trust.
Bihar, a 30-year-old from Lonsara Khurd village in Madhya Pradesh, is supporting his family through daily-wage farm labor. The Desai Foundation’s help desk camp in his village provided valuable assistance: PAN cards, Ayushman cards, and e-Shramik cards.
Bihar registered for a labor card, but an accident with a tractor left him with a severe leg injury. His labor card provided instant relief of Rs. 2 Lakhs and enrollment in the Economic Benefit Scheme, offering Rs. 1,000 per month. He’s grateful for the Desai Foundation’s Heroes for Humanity program, benefiting from the housing scheme associated with the labor card. Bihar is thankful for the Desai Foundation’s unwavering support.
I am Preet, I am studying in 6th STD in Joravasan school. All the children from my school attended Bal Health Mela at Shantaben Vidhyabhavan. I got my dental check-up, bad habit, good habits workshop, use of a first aid kit, good food-bad food and most important information on primary health care.
Padma, a resilient 61-year-old from Marathikoppa, Sirsi. Her vision challenges didn’t deter her dedication to work. But daily tasks and commuting became difficult due to her blurring vision. Padma attended an eye checkup camp by the Desai Foundation and partners. Thorough examinations revealed cataracts in her right eye.
On May 1, 2023, she had a successful cataract surgery, transforming her life. Now, she confidently navigates even at night, free from vision challenges. With your support, the Desai Foundation empowers individuals like Padma, ensuring equal opportunities for all to thrive.
I’m Renu, a 21-year-old from Bhanwata village, Rajasthan. After facing challenges, I had to discontinue my education after the 8th grade. But I didn’t give up on my dreams. Later, I resumed my studies and started a BA degree at a Niwai college. Here’s where the HFH program became a game-changer. I became a Community Facilitator and realized the importance of computer literacy.
I joined the Computer Skill Training program, which meant a daily 10-kilometer journey. Before this, I didn’t even know how to start a computer. But after three months of dedication, I gained essential computer skills. Thanks to this opportunity, I’ve opened up new horizons and feel more confident about my future.
I’m Shital, a 25-year-old housewife from Selu block, Parbhani district. After facing family responsibilities following my marriage, I couldn’t pursue my dreams. However, with my husband’s support, I joined beautician classes at SKF office in Selu.
I fulfilled my dream of becoming a makeup artist two years after our daughter was born by completing a 3-month beautician training course. My husband encouraged me to start a home-based beauty parlor. For the past 3-4 months, I’ve been earning 2000 to 3000 Rupees monthly while taking care of my child and managing household chores.
I’m Divya, a resident of Korlakatta village in Sirsi. My family faced tough times due to my father’s paralysis and financial struggles. I always had a passion for sewing, but family circumstances prevented me from pursuing it as a job. Fortunately, the foundation organized a sewing training program in Halagadde Panchayat, which I eagerly attended from February 23 to April 23, 2023.
During the training, I gained valuable sewing skills, allowing me to create various garments like blouses, kurtas, and baby frocks. What’s even better is that I can do this work from the comfort of my home. In just one month, I managed to earn ₹15,000 by taking sewing orders from others.
Get Involved
Your support helps remove barriers that hold women back
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
How The Desai Foundation Cultivates Dignity Across Rural India
Desai Foundation Celebrates 10 Million Lives in Times Square, Ahead of Upcoming Diwali on the Hudson
Desai Foundation’s 11th Annual Lotus Festival to Celebrate 10 Million Lives Impacted — Sept. 13 at Boston’s Omni Seaport
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 unforgettable moments.
Diwali on the Hudson 2026
LOTUS FESTIVAL 2026
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Follow us social media to stay connected
We regularly share impactful stories from the field, updates on upcoming events, and insights into the work driving our mission forward.
![From managing her home, caring for her cows, and supporting her family, to carefully crafting candles, Binitaben’s journey is one of resilience and growth.
Access to the Candle and Diya -making training by the Desai Foundation opened new livelihood opportunities for her and her family. Today, her handcrafted candles travel beyond her village, from Valsad to Surat, Vapi, Saputara, and other cities.
With the support of her husband and children, Binitaben now earns with dignity, contributes to her household, and supports her children’s education, while continuing to nurture her home and farm.
This is what empowerment looks like when skills meet opportunity.
#WomenEmpowerment #RuralEntrepreneurs #LivelihoodWithDignity
#DesaiFoundation #SkillDevelopment
[StoriesOfChange, Women empowerment, MadeByHer, livelihood initiatives, Rural India, Small business]](https://thedesaifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/wp-social-ninja/instagram/desaifoundation/17922748203238411_full.jpg)
![Dignity is now the law. 🩸✨
In a landmark judgment, the Supreme Court of India has ruled that the right to menstrual hygiene is an integral part of the right to life and privacy under Article 21 of the Constitution.
The Court has directed all schools to provide free sanitary pads and functional, gender-segregated toilets for girls, finally acknowledging a truth girls have lived with for generations: Without access to menstrual products and safe sanitation, girls are denied dignity, equality, and education.
At Desai Foundation, this is the reality we’ve been working to change for nearly 15 years.
No girl should miss school because of her period.
No girl should have to choose between her health and her education.
Menstrual health is not a privilege. It is a right.
We at the Desai Foundation have seen firsthand how access to pads, privacy, and dignity can transform a girl’s education, confidence, and future.
Today’s decision is a revolution for girls.
We are incredibly proud of this moment, proud of India, and proud of the work we have been doing every day to advance menstrual equity.
We believe this ruling will change the lives of millions of girls, ensuring they can live with dignity, pursue their education without interruption, and step into their futures without barriers.
[Supreme court of India, Menstrual Hygiene, right to life, Constitutional Right, Article21, school girls, separate toilets for girls, Justice JB Pardiwala]
#supremecourtofindia #landmarkjudgement #menstrualequity #fundamentalright #freepadsforgirls](https://thedesaifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/wp-social-ninja/instagram/desaifoundation/18071741165150280_full.jpg)
![You can’t build an equal society while treating menstruation like a taboo.
At Desai Foundation, we believe that breaking the stereotype starts with breaking the silence. Menstrual health is not just a “women’s issue”, it is a cornerstone of public health, economic livelihood, and gender equity.
When we hide the reality behind “blue liquid” and hushed whispers, we ignore the systemic barriers that hold half our population back.
The Facts vs. The Myths:
❌ Myth: Periods are “dirty” or a sign of impurity.
✅ Fact: Menstruation is a vital biological indicator of health. However, poor menstrual hygiene is linked to 70% of reproductive health issues in India. (Source: NFHS)
❌ Myth: Periods only affect a woman’s “private life.”
✅ Fact: Period poverty is a major barrier to Livelihood. Nearly 23 million girls in India drop out of school annually due to a lack of menstrual facilities and awareness. This loss of education directly impacts their future earning potential and our nation’s economy. (Source: UNESCO)
❌ Myth: Men shouldn’t be part of the conversation.
✅ Fact: True Menstrual Equity requires inclusive advocacy. When fathers, brothers, and leaders understand the science of menstruation, they help build a world where a period never stops a girl from her education or a woman from her work.
#BreakTheSilence #MenstrualHealthMatters #MenstrualEquity #PeriodPositive #EndPeriodStigma [ PeriodsAreNormal, PublicHealthForAll, GenderEquityNow, PeriodPoverty, EducationNotInterrupted, MenForMenstrualEquity, InclusiveAdvocacy, DignityForAll, DesaiFoundation]](https://thedesaifoundation.org/wp-content/uploads/wp-social-ninja/instagram/desaifoundation/17933408193160235_full.jpg)
