Maher

Enables and uplifts vulnerable individuals, fostering holistic growth and social justice through comprehensive support and nurturing environments

  • Bronze Certified 2023
  • FCRA
  • 80G
  • 12A
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About

  • Headquarters

    Pune, Maharashtra

  • Since

    1997

Maher Ashram is a humanitarian organisation based in India that has been dedicated to uplifting and empowering helpless women, children, and men since Read more its inception. The organisation, founded by Sister Lucy Kurien, aims to provide a nurturing environment and comprehensive support to those in need. Its mission is to identify and understand the root causes of violence and despair experienced by women and children in India. The goal is to develop and deliver services that address these causes, promote self-reliance, and support healthy homes and communities. Embracing people of different faiths, the mission promotes social justice and environmental consciousness. The organisation operates several homes and centres across India, offering shelter, healthcare, education, and vocational training to deprived individuals, including survivors of domestic violence, abandoned children, and elderly persons. At Maher Ashram, the emphasis is not just on addressing immediate needs but also on holistic development and empowerment. It focuses on nurturing self-esteem, life skills, and emotional well-being, enabling beneficiaries to lead independent and fulfilling lives. It also strives to create a sense of community and belonging, fostering an atmosphere of mutual respect and understanding. Through partnerships and collaborations, it seeks to create lasting change and promote social justice on a larger scale.

Impact

Over the past 26 years, Maher has made an impact, touching the lives of over 4,637 women through Matruchaya, reaching approximately 4,237 children in Kishordham's 35 homes, and providing aid to 454 men through Pitruchaya.

Programs

  • Pitruchaya Programme

    Maher's "Pitruchaya" programme provides shelter for needy, broken, physically challenged, and elderly men. Initially focused on women and children, Sr. Lucy witnessed the plight of needy men and established a dedicated home. The project began when a man in dire condition was rescued and housed with older boys. Despite challenges, a rented and renovated house became the new home in 2013. Additionally, a separate home for elderly men was inaugurated in 2021. Maher's commitment extends to helping men in need and fostering a safe and supportive environment.

  • Child Protection Programme

    Maher prioritizes the safety of children, providing a secure and respectful environment. Following Indian laws and the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child, comprehensive protection policies are implemented. A 24/7 CCTV system covers public spaces. Collaborating with social workers and organisations, safety awareness training is provided. Stringent screening ensures trustworthy volunteers and visitors. With 26 years of experience, Maher remains vigilant for signs of abuse upholding a zero-tolerance policy.

  • Volunteering Programme

    Maher values volunteers who actively support its mission. People are attracted to India for meaningful opportunities. At Maher's orphanage, volunteers have diverse roles and some become long-term contributors. Schedules are customized to fit children's home, school, and tuition responsibilities. Volunteer work varies but aims for a rewarding experience. Activities include reading to children, farm and workshop assistance, teaching and painting, gardening and landscaping, organizing games and activities, and contributing to cooking and cleaning.

  • Matruchaya Programme

    Providing refuge and care for disadvantaged, broken, physically challenged, and elderly women, Maher's "Matruchaya" programme offers a nurturing haven where women facing emotional, psychological, social, and financial difficulties find solace and support. It empowers them to pursue professional training as nurses, social workers, and house mothers. Some have even pursued higher education. These resilient women, hailing from challenging backgrounds and having experienced violence, widowhood, destitution, mental challenges, or unwanted pregnancies, have found sanctuary in Maher's expanding network of homes. Additionally, Maher has extended its services to encompass mentally challenged women, exemplifying their commitment to holistic care and inclusivity.

  • Kishoredham Programme

    Embracing orphaned and helpless children from shattered families, Maher's "Kishordham" programme fosters a nurturing environment, upholding every child's right to joy and happiness. Maher works towards the education and well-being of these children, who have often faced traumatic situations. Maher believes in smaller homes, each with around 20 children, ensuring individual emotional needs are met. Trained social workers monitor progress, while community integration facilitates healthy psychological development. Over 90 children pursue higher education. Maher's commitment lies in creating an atmosphere of love and acceptance, enabling children to realize their full potential.

Leadership Team

  • Sister Lucy Kurien

    Founder & Director

  • Dr. Nicola Pawar

    Secretary

  • Hirabegum Mulla

    President

  • E R Vijayan

Demographics & Structure

  • No. of Employees

    100+

M&E

  • Internal, External Assessors

    No

Policies

  • Ethics and Transparency Policies

    No

  • Formal CEO Oversight & Compensation Policy

    No

Political & Religious Declarations

  • On Affiliation if any

    No

  • On Deployment Bias if any

    No

Registration Details

  • PAN Card

    AABTM1421G

  • Registration ID

    Maharashtra/188/2003/Pune

  • VO ID / Darpan ID

    MH/2017/0165839

  • 12A

    AABTM1421GE20164

  • 80G

    AABTM1421GF20139

  • FCRA

    083930418

  • CSR Registration Number

    Not Available

Location

  • Headquarters

    Survey Number 1295 Vadhu BK, Koregaon Bhima Taluka Shirur, Pune

    Directions

Other Details

  • Type & Sub Type

    Non-profit
    Trust