Empowering Lives - Building Communities - Creating Change.
Humble Beginnings, Powerful Purpose
In 1992, social apostolate began in the Arilova slum with a simple act
of solidarity. Sr. Philo Augustine’s compassionate outreach turned rice savings
and ₹10 deposits into a movement for dignity. Today, we are a thriving force
transforming thousands of lives.
Women's Empowerment Through Self-Help
From 5 women in 1994 to 5,000+ members now, our Self-Help Groups have built a support system that nurtures economic independence and confidence. Registered as Visakha Maria Mutually Aided Cooperative Society, women now lead savings, credit, and community change.
Development Driven by Women
Community
Halls:
Built in 8 clusters – community halls a space to gather for women for
meetings.
Borewells: 15 borewells installed and pipelines laid on
hilltops to solve water scarcity.
Housing & Assets: Through collective action, women secured better living conditions.
Pratyasha Team for Family Counselling & Legal Aid
With 50 trained Para Legal Volunteers and legal experts, WMDS has intervened in over 200 family cases and 300+ legal matters. Women-led legal cells know as Pratyasha team resolve issues with empathy and effectiveness—keeping families united and strong.
Impactful Social Action
Liquor-Free
Zones:
Shut down 45 belt shops and one licensed outlet after rallies, dharnas,
and months of silent protests.
Dignity
Restored:
Women claimed their space, voice, and safety in public life.
Health & De-addiction Support
Led by Sr. Philo Joseph, the de-addiction program offers acupuncture, counseling, and treatment. 50+ families have overcome alcoholism and now live in wellness.
Livelihoods & Vocational Training
Computer
Education
(2003): 200–300 youth trained annually in MS Office, Tally, Photoshop,
etc.
Typewriting
& Tailoring:
Over 5,000 youth and 1,000 women trained – many now self-employed.
Skill Workshops: Saree painting, pottery, knitting, pickle-making – turning talent into income.
Informal & Formal Education
Dropout
Program
(2000–2010): 300 students reintegrated into mainstream education.
Community
College & Open School: Courses in preschool teaching, English, and Class 10 support –
changing futures for youth and women.
Scholarship Support: Over 200 children are sponsored every year by SHGs and clusters. Education is our bridge to equity.
Healing Through Herbs & Eco Living
Herbal
Medicine Training: Women prepare and use remedies for everyday illnesses.
Herbal
Gardens:
Over 80 families grow healing plants at home.
Water
Pits, Waste Management & Terrace Gardens: 800 families practice sustainability daily.
20,000 Saplings Planted with support from local authorities and green partners.
In Times of Loss, A Helping Hand
Insurance & Charitable Fund: In partnership with MetLife, over 200 families received insurance support. Charitable aid is given to members’ families during bereavement.
The WMDS Spirit - At WMDS, women plan, women lead, women
transform. Every initiative is built on participation, self-reliance, and
hope. We are not just an NGO—we are a community in action.