Chennai is renowned for its rich culture, strong sense of community, and deep-rooted values. Beyond its bustling streets and coastal charm, the city is home to several NGOs working tirelessly to uplift vulnerable communities. Whether it is education, mental health, environment, gender equality, or child welfare, Chennai’s NGOs have built powerful models of compassion and impact.
Here are some of the prominent NGOs in Chennai:
- Sevalaya
Founded in 1988, Sevalaya is one of Chennai’s most well-known charities offering multi-dimensional support to underserved communities.
- MOHAN Foundation
MOHAN Foundation is a leading organization promoting organ donation awareness and transplant education across India, with its headquarters in Chennai.
- Exnora International
A pioneering environmental NGO founded in 1988, Exnora has played a crucial role in improving civic cleanliness in Chennai.
- Schools of Equality
Founded in 2014, Schools of Equality works to build inclusive mindsets among young people. They conduct programs in schools and colleges that help students understand issues related to caste, class, religion, and gender — encouraging them to question and challenge inequalities.
- Rainbow Voices Community Center
A Chennai-based organization providing support, advocacy, and safe spaces for LGBTQ+ communities.
- World Vision India (Chennai Office)
One of India’s largest child-focused NGOs, headquartered in Chennai. Through child sponsorship programs and community development projects, World Vision supports lakhs of children across India with education, healthcare, and holistic wellbeing.
- The Banyan
The Banyan is widely respected for its work in mental health, especially for vulnerable populations experiencing homelessness.
- Bhumi
Bhumi is one of India’s largest youth volunteer organizations, founded in Chennai. Through after-school programs, environmental drives, and youth-led initiatives, Bhumi engages thousands of volunteers every year to uplift underserved communities.
- NICE Foundation
The NICE Foundation operates across Chennai and Tamil Nadu with multiple community development programs.
Why These NGOs Matter to Chennai’s Social Landscape
Chennai’s NGOs strengthen the city through diverse interventions:
✔ Addressing Multiple Social Needs
From mental health to education, gender equality to elderly care — these NGOs fill critical service gaps.
✔ Working Closely With Communities
Most organizations operate at the grassroots, understanding local challenges and delivering sustainable solutions.
✔ Offering Opportunities for Volunteering & CSR
Corporations, students, and citizens can meaningfully contribute through:
CSR partnerships
While Aashritha Charitable Trust is headquartered in Vijayawada, our mission aligns strongly with Chennai’s spirit of community service.
And if you wish to collaborate with Aashritha Charitable Trust — as a donor, volunteer, or CSR partner — we welcome you with open hearts.
To explore volunteering or donation opportunities, please visit our website or contact us.
Your support today can create a life-changing impact for someone in need.
