An NGO founded in 1972 to help children living in slums towards a better life, Apnalaya strives to achieve this through urban community development projects in Mumbai. Its role is one of empowerment: of encouraging ordinary men and women to believe in themselves and in their abilities to change their lives for the better.

Partnership and participation are thus the key to all of Apnalaya’s activities.  From identification of needs and problems, to planning and execution of projects, local people are involved at every stage.

Apnalaya's programmes are carried out by over 60 trained and dedicated community based staff, who work hand in hand with 7 professional social workers and 3 doctors, under the guidance of the Director, Leena Joshi, and the Executive Committee.

The main area of work is Shivaji Nagar, Govandi, with communities around the dumping ground: Rafi Nagar, Baba Nagar, Shanti Nagar, Padma Nagar and Chickalwadi. Other centres are located in Chikuwadi in Mankhurd, Wadaripadda in Malad, and Datta Mandir and Jaiphalwadi in Tardeo.

Apnalaya complies with the norms for accountabilty, transparency and good governance within the voluntary sector laid down by Credibility Alliance.

Click Here to view comments from visitors.