Top 10 Best NGOs in Delhi You Should Know

Are you looking for the best NGO in Delhi to make a positive impact? In this blog, we will look into the best NGOs in Delhi dedicated to various causes and making a significant difference. Whether you’re interested in volunteering, donating, or partnering with an NGO, this blog will help you find the perfect organisation that aligns with your values and interests.

What is an NGO?

NGOs are non-profit groups that work independently, separate from the government. They aim to solve social, environmental, or humanitarian problems for the public’s benefit. There are 2 main kinds of NGOs: operational NGOs, which run projects and programs, and advocacy NGOs, which work to change public opinion and influence policies. NGOs have several key roles that include providing essential services like education, healthcare, and emergency aid to those in need. They raise awareness, influence policy decisions, and conduct research on specific issues.

List of the best 10 NGOs in Delhi

1. Teach for India

Address: Teach For India, N-23, Second Floor, Green Park Extn. New Delhi – 110016
Website:

Considered one of the best NGOs in Delhi, Teach For India is part of a global network called Teach For All, which works to improve education for everyone. Founded in 2009, Teach For India trains young professionals and college graduates to be full-time teachers in low-income schools across India. 

Their goal is to make sure every child in India gets a great education, no matter their background. They want to build a group of leaders who will push for fair and high-quality education.

They have three main programs : 

• Fellowship Program: A two-year program where fellows teach full-time in low-income schools. They get training and support to improve their teaching and leadership skills.

• Alumni Program:  After the fellowship, alumni continue to work on education issues in various roles, like policy or school leadership. For former fellows who want to keep working on education issues in different ways.

• School Leadership Program: For experienced professionals who want to create high-quality schools in underserved areas.

Teach For India works with schools in Delhi to enhance their quality and support students. They focus on improving literacy, numeracy, and student engagement. They also work with parents, communities, and local organisations to create a better learning environment. They collaborate with government bodies, private companies, and other NGOs to increase their impact. There are many ways to get involved, including volunteering, supporting with donations, or partnering with them.

2. Goonj

Address: Madan Pur Khadar, Near Sunder Public School, New Delhi. Nearest Landmark: Please take the road along GD Goenka School & Jal Board, Sarita Vihar.
Contact: 011- 41401216
Website: https://goonj.org/ 

Goonj is a non-governmental organisation in Delhi, India. It helps reduce poverty by running impactful social programs across India. People and organisations can donate money to support various causes through Goonj. The organisation works in 23 states, providing disaster relief, humanitarian aid, and community development. Goonj focuses on clothing, a basic need that is often ignored. 

It was started in 1999 by Anshu Gupta, known as the “Clothing Man” for his efforts to provide clothing to the poor. In 2012, Anshu Gupta was named India’s Social Entrepreneur of the Year by the Schwab Foundation, part of the World Economic Forum. He also won the Ramon Magsaysay Award in 2015 for his work with Goonj. The organisation began with just 67 garments and now handles over 3,500 tonnes of material each year. Goonj is legally registered and approved to receive foreign contributions. It addresses rural poverty by repurposing urban waste to meet the basic needs of people.

Their main focus areas:
Goonj’s main program, “Cloth for Work” (CFW), helps villagers improve their communities. In return for their work, they receive extra clothes and materials from cities. This program treats clothing as an essential need and gets people involved in local projects. Goonj helps during natural disasters like floods and earthquakes. They provide emergency supplies and long-term support, focusing on treating people with dignity, not just handing out charity. Goonj collects extra items from cities (like clothes and household goods) and sends them to rural areas. These items help solve various local issues. Goonj’s “Not Just a Piece of Cloth” (NJPC) program provides clean cloth pads to women in rural areas, promoting menstrual health and hygiene. The “School to School” (S2S) program connects urban schools with rural ones. Urban schools donate educational materials to rural schools to improve learning. Goonj runs programs that focus on improving rural infrastructure, water conservation, and agriculture by using local resources and involving the community.

Goonj’s impact is widespread, and it is present in multiple states across India. They have reached millions of people through their programs and have been instrumental in transforming lives in rural and disaster-hit areas.

Awards they’ve won:
Goonj has received numerous awards and recognition for its innovative approach and significant contributions to society. Some notable ones include:

1. Ramon Magsaysay Award (2015) awarded to Anshu Gupta for his work with Goonj.

2. Changemaker Award by Forbes India (2017).

3. Recognition by various national and international organisations for their impact on rural development and disaster relief.

Volunteer and Support Opportunities:
Goonj offers various opportunities for individuals and organisations to contribute. They encourage donations of materials, financial support, and volunteering in their projects. Their model emphasises the importance of dignity in giving and receiving, making every contribution meaningful.

Goonj is active on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram, where it often shares updates about its work. The organisation keeps growing and finds new ways to tackle social issues, making it not only one of the best NGOs in Delhi but also among the best in the country.

3. Delhi Red Cross Society

Address: Red Cross Bhawan, Golf Links, New Delhi-110003
Website: https://redcrossdelhi.org/redcrossdelhi/ 

The Delhi Red Cross Society (DRCS) is an important branch of the Indian Red Cross Society, which is part of the global Red Cross and Red Crescent Movement, known for its humanitarian work worldwide, including disaster response, healthcare, and social services. 

The Delhi Red Cross Society is a local branch of the Indian Red Cross Society, which was established in 1920 as part of the international Red Cross movement. Its main goal is to provide relief during disasters and emergencies and to promote health and social welfare programs. The mission of the Delhi Red Cross Society is to reduce human suffering and uphold human dignity. They focus on offering emergency relief, healthcare, and social services to those in need. Their objectives include disaster management, community health and care, promoting humanitarian values, and supporting vulnerable people during emergencies.

Here are some key activities and programs:

• DRCS is a key player in disaster relief efforts in Delhi and its surrounding areas, providing essential aid like food, shelter, and medical care during natural disasters.

• The organisation regularly holds blood donation camps across Delhi to ensure a steady supply of blood for emergencies and surgeries. They also run awareness campaigns on the importance of blood donation.

• DRCS runs dispensaries, mobile health units, and health camps that offer medical services to those in need, particularly in underserved areas. They also manage maternity and child health programs.

• DRCS organises Educational Programs like training in first aid, disaster management, and home nursing to empower people with the skills needed to respond to emergencies.

• The society supports the elderly, differently-abled, and other vulnerable groups. They work with other NGOs and government bodies to implement Welfare programs.

The Delhi Red Cross Society has a strong network of volunteers who participate actively in all its programs. These volunteers are trained in first aid, disaster response, and other humanitarian services, helping them assist effectively in various operations.

DRCS collaborates with government agencies, NGOs, and international organisations to extend its reach and effectiveness. These partnerships are crucial for large-scale disaster responses and long-term community development projects.

The society is funded through donations from individuals, corporate partnerships, and grants from government and international bodies. These funds are used to maintain and expand their humanitarian work. Because of all these factors, it is considered by many to be the best NGO in Delhi.

4. Sambhav Foundation

Address:  585, DDA Janta Flats, Pulpharadpur, Block A, Pul Pehlad Pur, New Delhi, Delhi 110044
Contact: 95657 69090
Website: https://sambhavfoundation.org/ 

Regarded by many as one of the best NGOs in Delhi, Sambhav Foundation dedicated to helping marginalised communities across India. Established in 2006, the foundation focuses on several important areas such as education, healthcare, skill development, women’s empowerment, sanitation, disaster response, and care for senior citizens.

The key initiatives and impact of the Sambhav Foundation are as follows: 

Sambhav Foundation invests significantly in building infrastructure and training teachers to provide employable skills. They emphasise a learning environment driven by curiosity and technology, with regular assessments, to make education accessible to everyone.

The foundation runs various public health programs, including immunisation drives and efforts to address period poverty. They also work to improve access to healthcare in underserved areas.

Sambhav Foundation enhances job opportunities by identifying skill gaps and connecting trained workers with the job market. They also support small entrepreneurs with mentorship, networking, and financial assistance to help them grow.

The foundation is strongly committed to empowering women by providing them with the skills and resources needed for financial independence. It also has programs aimed at uplifting differently-abled individuals.

During crises, the Sambhav Foundation actively provides disaster relief and works to ensure community resilience. Sambhav Foundation operates in many states in India and has a significant national impact, covering over 12,000 pin codes.

The foundation collaborates with corporate and government partners to maximise its impact. It offers various ways for individuals and organisations to get involved, including donations, volunteering, or corporate social responsibility (CSR) initiatives.

5. Chetna (Childhood Enhancement Through Training and Action)

Address: CHETNA, 40/22 Manohar Kunj, Gautam Nagar, New Delhi
Email:  info@chetnango.org
Contact number:  +91 – 11 – 41644471, 41644470
Website: https://chetnango.org/ 

Chetna is a well-known NGO based in Delhi, India, that focuses on improving the lives of marginalised children, especially those who are street and working children. Since its establishment in 2002, Chetna aims to provide these children with education, healthcare, and a safe environment to help break the cycle of poverty and exploitation.

Its main focuses are:

Education: Chetna offers non-formal education for children who cannot attend regular schools. They run learning centres and programs to help these children return to school or receive vocational training. The NGO works to protect children from abuse and exploitation. They run awareness programs to educate communities about child rights and the importance of safeguarding vulnerable children.

Chetna provides health services, including regular check-ups, nutritional support, and counselling, to ensure street children receive basic healthcare. The organisation offers vocational training for older children to help them gain skills for better job opportunities and a brighter future.

Chetna advocates for policy changes to improve the lives of marginalised children. They collaborate with government bodies, other NGOs, and international organisations to influence policies.

Their Programs and Initiatives are as follows:

Balaknama: A notable initiative where street children write and edit a newspaper. This publication allows them to share their stories and highlight their issues.

Contact Points: Safe spaces where street children can access education, counseling, food, and healthcare. These points are entryways into Chetna’s broader programs.

Home Placement: Chetna helps reintegrate street children with their families when possible, offering counselling and support to ensure a stable home environment.

Chetna Impact has significantly improved the lives of many street and working children in Delhi and nearby areas. Their holistic approach provides immediate support and works towards long-term solutions like education, skill development, and policy advocacy. Chetna works with various national and international organisations, including governmental bodies, other NGOs, and donors, to expand their reach and impact. Despite its success, Chetna faces challenges such as limited resources, the complexity of working with vulnerable populations, and the need for greater public awareness and support for child rights.

Chetna remains dedicated to empowering street and vulnerable children by offering them opportunities for a better and more secure future. Due to their initiatives and the lives they have touched, many consider it to be the best NGO in Delhi that works for the upliftment of children in need.

6. Aasra

Address:113, Som Bazar Rd, L-Extension, Mohan Garden, Uttam Nagar, New Delhi, Delhi, 110059
Website: http://www.aasra.info/
Phone:  91-9820466726

One of the best NGOs in Delhi, Aasra provides support and protection to people in distress, with a focus on suicide prevention. Established in 1998, it is part of a network of suicide prevention organisations in India, providing emotional support to those in mental distress.

Aasra’s mission is to help people who are feeling suicidal or distressed by giving them a safe space to talk about their feelings and guiding them towards recovery. They aim to reduce suicide rates by offering accessible, empathetic, and confidential support.

Aasra focuses on: 

Suicide Prevention: Aasra operates a 24/7 helpline offering emotional support to those in distress, depression, or having suicidal thoughts. Trained volunteers are on call around the clock to provide listening and guidance.

Mental Health Awareness: The organisation runs awareness campaigns, workshops, and training to promote mental health and reduce stigma, encouraging people to seek help.

Crisis Intervention: Aasra helps individuals and families manage crises such as emotional breakdowns and family conflicts.

Outreach Programs: They conduct community outreach to educate people about mental health, suicide prevention, and the importance of emotional support. They work with schools, colleges, and workplaces to spread awareness.

Volunteer Training: Aasra trains volunteers to handle sensitive conversations, provide support, and refer individuals to professional help if needed.

Aasra’s Programs and Initiatives: 

24/7 Helpline: Aasra runs a dedicated helpline (91-22-27546669) that is available all day, every day, for those in emotional distress, offering a confidential space to talk and receive support. They regularly hold workshops and seminars on mental health, stress management, and suicide prevention to educate the public and reduce stigma. Aasra conducts awareness campaigns through social media, community events, and partnerships with other organisations to educate people on recognising suicidal behaviour and seeking help.

Aasra has significantly impacted mental health and suicide prevention in Delhi and beyond, saving many lives through its helpline and support services. Their work has increased awareness and understanding of mental health issues in the community.

Aasra faces challenges such as the need for more trained volunteers, limited resources, and the stigma surrounding mental health and suicide. They are working to expand their reach and provide more support.

Aasra partners with mental health professionals, organisations, and institutions to improve their services and reach. They are also part of a broader network of suicide prevention NGOs and government agencies in India.

Aasra plays a crucial role in offering a safety net for those in distress, helping them seek help and regain hope. Their efforts in suicide prevention and mental health awareness continue to make a meaningful difference.

7. Smile Foundation

Address: 161 B/4, 3rd Floor Gulmohar House, Yusuf Sarai community centre, Delhi, India

Founded in 2002, Smile Foundation’s mission is to improve the lives of poor kids and their families. The foundation uses a lifecycle approach, focusing on education, healthcare, livelihood, and women’s empowerment to promote sustainable development across the country.

Mission and Vision of Smile Foundation

They aim to empower underprivileged children, youth, and women by providing education, healthcare, and job training.

Their aim is to drive sustainable change in the lives of these groups through a comprehensive development approach.

Smile Foundation’s key focus areas are:

To provide quality education to disadvantaged children. Smile Foundation operates Mission Education centres throughout India, offering free education and initiatives to help dropouts return to school and enhance the quality of government school education.

Smile on Wheels: To deliver healthcare services to underserved areas. Smile on Wheels is a mobile hospital program that brings medical care to remote and urban slum areas. It addresses maternal and child health, diseases, and health awareness.

Smile Twin e-Learning Programme – STeP: To equip youth with job skills and placements. STeP provides skills training in areas like English, computers, soft skills, and retail management to help educated youth become employable.

Women Empowerment (Swabhiman): To support women from underprivileged communities in becoming change-makers. Swabhiman offers vocational training, health camps, awareness programs, and self-help groups to empower women through health, education, and economic opportunities.

Disaster Response: To offer immediate aid and recovery to disaster-struck communities. The foundation provides food, shelter, healthcare, and other essentials to areas affected by natural disasters.

Smile Foundation’s Programs and Initiatives:

Mission Education reaches over 200,000 children each year, offering them quality education and development opportunities. 

Smile on Wheels provides healthcare to millions across India who lack basic medical facilities. 

STeP (Smile Twin e-Learning Programme) trains thousands of youth nationwide, helping them find jobs in various sectors like retail, hospitality, and BPOs.

Swabhiman Program is a women empowerment initiative that helps thousands of women by providing education, health care, and job opportunities, enabling them to become self-sufficient.

Smile Foundation’s Impact runs over 400 welfare projects in 25 states across India. Since it started, it has helped more than 1.5 million children and families, significantly improving the lives of many underprivileged people.

The foundation works with many national and international partners, including companies like Infosys, Nokia, Siemens, and Coca-Cola, as well as organisations like GiveIndia and GlobalGiving.

Smile Foundation has earned several awards for its work, such as the GuideStar India NGO Transparency Award and recognition from the United Nations. It is also accredited by the Credibility Alliance for Good Governance. Despite its achievements, Smile Foundation faces challenges like needing more resources, addressing issues in rural and urban slums, and adapting to changing social and economic conditions.

Smile Foundation remains a source of hope for many underprivileged communities in India, driving positive change through its comprehensive approach to development.

8. Butterflies

Address: 163/4, Pradhan Wali Gali, Jaunapur, New Delhi – 110047. India.
Telephone number: +91-9999321098

Email: butterfliesngo@gmail.com

Website: https://butterfliesngo.org/ 

Butterflies is a respected NGO in Delhi, India, working to improve the lives of marginalised children, especially those living on the streets or in difficult situations. Established in 1989, the organization provides nurturing environments that support children’s growth and learning.

Butterflies focuses on:

Butterflies offers educational support through learning centres and informal programs. They help integrate children into formal schools or provide vocational training. The NGO provides medical care, vaccinations, and nutritional support to ensure children’s health needs are met.

Butterflies advocates for child rights and protection, working to prevent abuse and exploitation. They create safe spaces for children and run awareness programs. They offer vocational training for older children and youth to enhance their job skills and support their transition to adulthood.

The NGO provides counselling to address the emotional and psychological needs of children and families dealing with trauma or abuse.

Butterflies’ Programs and Initiatives are as follows:

Drop-in Centers: These centres offer education, health care, food, and emotional support, serving as safe havens for street children.

Mobile Learning Units: Mobile units provide education to children who cannot attend regular schools and travel to various areas to offer informal learning.

Child Protection Helpline: A dedicated helpline helps children facing abuse or emergencies by connecting them with necessary resources and support.

Community Outreach: Butterflies raises awareness about child rights and engages with local communities to build support systems and encourage involvement in child protection.

Butterflies’ impact has significantly improved the lives of thousands of children through its programs, leading to better education, health, and protection.

The NGO works with government bodies, other NGOs, international agencies, donors, corporate partners, and community groups to support and expand their initiatives.

Butterflies face challenges like limited resources, the complex needs of vulnerable populations, and the ongoing need for advocacy.

Butterflies remains dedicated to supporting and empowering marginalised children in Delhi, working tirelessly to offer them better opportunities and protection for a brighter future.

9. Sightsavers India

Address: 45, Okhla Industrial Estate, Phase III New Delhi – 110 020.
Website: https://www.sightsaversindia.org/ 

Phone: +91 11 42267202, +91 11 42384572

Sightsavers India, a branch of Sightsavers International, aims to prevent avoidable blindness and support people with visual impairments. Since its establishment in India in 1966, the organisation has focused on enhancing eye health and fostering inclusion for individuals with disabilities, especially in underserved communities.

Sightsavers India focuses on:

They focus on preventing blindness and vision problems through cataract surgeries, treatments for other eye issues, and eye health education. They also train healthcare professionals and improve eye care facilities. The organisation works to include people with disabilities in all parts of society by reducing stigma and discrimination. They ensure access to education, employment, and other opportunities for people with disabilities. They run programs to improve educational access for children with visual impairments and other disabilities. This involves creating inclusive learning environments and providing the necessary resources. 

Sightsavers India advocates for policies that benefit people with disabilities. They work with government bodies and other groups to promote disability rights and address the needs of those with visual impairments. The organisation offers rehabilitation services to help individuals with visual impairments and other disabilities live independently. This includes training in daily living skills, mobility, and vocational skills.

Sightsavers India’s Programs and initiatives are as follows:

They have set up vision centres in various states to provide affordable eye care services, including eye screenings and treatments. They conduct large-scale cataract screening and surgery campaigns, focusing on remote and underserved areas. Initiatives to tackle childhood blindness and visual impairment, working with schools and communities to support affected children. Collaboration with schools to create inclusive environments, train teachers, and provide necessary assistive devices. Efforts to advocate for disability rights and raise awareness about disability issues.

Sightsavers India’s Impact has significantly improved eye health and disability inclusion, with thousands of sight-saving surgeries, better educational access for disabled children, and increased awareness of disability rights. They work with government agencies, local NGOs, healthcare providers, and international organisations. Corporate partners and donors also support their initiatives.

The organisation faces challenges like reaching remote areas, meeting high demand for eye care, and ensuring program sustainability. Advocacy for disability rights remains a key focus.

Sightsavers India strives for a world where no one is blind from preventable causes, and everyone with a disability can live with dignity and opportunity.

10. National Foundation for India (NFI)

Address: National Foundation for India, India Habitat Centre, Core 4A, Upper Ground Floor, Lodhi Road, New Delhi 110 003, India.

Phone number: 91-11-24641864, 24641865, 24648490, 24648491

Mail: info@nfi.org.in

One of the best NGOs in Delhi is the National Foundation for India (NFI). It is a well-known NGO based in Delhi, India, founded in 1998. It aims to promote social justice and fair development through various programs. NFI focuses on strengthening civil society, empowering marginalised communities, and supporting grassroots development.

This is where the National Foundation for India (NFI) focuses on:

NFI supports and uplifts marginalised groups, such as women, children, and people in rural areas. They strive to improve their access to resources, opportunities, and rights.

NFI enhances learning opportunities for children and young people from underprivileged backgrounds by improving education quality and increasing access to resources.

The foundation improves health outcomes by supporting health initiatives, offering healthcare services, and promoting health awareness.

NFI boosts economic opportunities through programs that focus on livelihood, skill development, and support for small businesses.

NFI works to influence policy changes by engaging with government bodies, other NGOs, and advocacy networks to address the needs and rights of marginalised communities.

Here are some Programs and Initiatives:

NFI provides financial support and grants to common organisations and community-based projects that align with their focus areas, helping them implement effective initiatives.

The foundation invests in training programs for local organisations and community leaders, equipping them with the skills needed to tackle local issues.

NFI conducts research and documents issues related to social justice and development to better understand community needs and guide policy advocacy.

NFI collaborates with other NGOs, government agencies, and international organisations to enhance their impact and reach.

The National Foundation for India has significantly contributed to social justice and community development in India, leading to better educational outcomes, improved health services, greater economic opportunities, and stronger advocacy for marginalised groups.

The National Foundation for India faces challenges such as securing sustainable funding, navigating complex socio-political environments, and meeting the varied needs of the communities they serve.

NFI is dedicated to promoting social justice and development through collaborative efforts and community engagement.

Conclusion: 

If you are based in Delhi and either want to monetarily help an NGO, work or volunteer with them, we hope that the list of the best NGOs in Delhi that we compiled in this blog is helpful for you. Many impactful NGOs in India rely on strong funding and resources to keep their work going and expand their efforts. Crowdfunding platforms like Ketto are crucial for this. As a leading crowdfunding organisation, Ketto offers a key platform for NGOs to raise the funds they need for their projects. By using Ketto’s network and resources, NGOs can reach a larger audience, connect with potential donors, and get the financial support they need to move their projects forward.

Ketto’s crowdfunding capabilities, combined with the dedication of these NGOs, create a more effective way to tackle social issues and promote sustainable development in Delhi and beyond.

Supporting these NGOs through Ketto not only meets their immediate needs but also invests in long-term solutions that aim to uplift communities and drive positive change. Together, we can enhance their impact and help build a fairer and more just society.

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