The significance of Kherwadi Social Welfare Association (KSWA) lies in its profound impact on poverty alleviation and youth empowerment across India. Founded in 1928 by the statesman Mr. B. G. Kher, KSWA addresses "social poverty" by uplifting marginalized communities. Through its flagship movement, Yuva Parivartan - formally launched in 2003 by the former President A.P.J. Abdul Kalam - the organization provides vital "second-chance at meaningful and enhanced livelihoods" for school and college dropouts and underprivileged women. By imparting flexible, short-term vocational, entrepreneurial, and life skills, KSWA has enhanced the employability of over 1.5 million individuals. Over 90% of its urban and rural beneficiaries successfully transition into stable wage or self-employment, driving sustainable economic independence.
Through 2022–24, VFIT supported 200 Adivasi and Dalit farmers in Gondia and Gadchiroli, Maharashtra, to become pig-rearing entrepreneurs through a Revolving and Group Herding Model. The farmers were organised into 40 groups of five, with each group receiving an initial stock of five pigs. The groups took responsibility for the care, management, and growth of their herds, with continuous support and monitoring from KSWA
VFIT appreciates that KSWA identified the right intervention for the community, selected a suitable and sustainable breed, and brought together the right farmers to benefit from it. KSWA also helped the groups develop market linkages for procuring feed, built their capacity in pig healthcare and encouraged them to adopt better farming practices, including investing in improved and hygienic shelters for their pigs.
“The Volkart Foundation Indian Trust is helping us create sustainable livelihood opportunities for tribal communities in Maharashtra by combining awareness, research, market linkages and entrepreneurship development in animal husbandry. This is helping farmers become more self-reliant, reduce their social and economic vulnerabilities, and build a better future for the next generation.”
The Shield Foundation significantly impacts marginalized communities, primarily in Mumbai’s Dharavi and Mankhurd, by empowering vulnerable populations. It delivers critical elderly care, providing physical and mental health support, free medical camps, and eye care to thousands of seniors. Additionally, it fosters financial independence through targeted youth and women's vocational training.
Suhit Jeevan Trust works through an integrated approach focused on health, empowerment, and sustainable community well-being.
Offers comprehensive health checks, home-based care, and psychological support for senior citizens.
Trains young individuals and women in employable vocational programs to secure sustainable livelihoods.
Conducts preventive health and screening camps in densely populated urban settlements.
VFIT supports healthcare of 1000 senior citizens in Dharavi. This includes regular check up and physiotherapy and food for few select senior citizens. It also trains 100 girls and boys every year in bed side nursing
VFIT appreciates the partnership Shield Foundation has developed with the Sion Hospital and how it has positively impacted the parameters of access, affordability and wait time for this group of senior citizens. Many students, especially girls from challenging family background have started supporting their families and have earned a respect in their neighbourhood.
“"Our heartfelt gratitude to VFIT for being the first to believe in us and in the dignity and well-being of Dharavi’s underserved elderly. For nine years, when senior citizens were often overlooked, VFIT stood by us with unwavering trust and compassion. Your belief gave us the courage to dream, innovate, and keep going. Thank you for not just funding our work, but for believing in the people we serve - and walking beside us, year after year.”
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