Stories that speak to the heart of IDS.
Hear from supporters, partners and changemakers whose words reflect five decades of trust, service and lasting grassroots impact.
Testimonials in their own words
Personal reflections from members of the IDS community who have witnessed its mission and impact.
Himanshu Patel
Naperville, Illinois
Shabana Azmi
Actor and social advocate
A little effort, yet a huge impact on someone’s life—someone who has no one, no support, no connections and no means. IDS gives them hope for a better present and future. So far away, yet reaching people in the remotest corners of India. Fifty years of service by dedicated individuals like yourself is remarkable.
My best wishes for IDS to grow from strength to strength and continue being a ray of sunshine for so many.
Words of trust, gratitude and partnership
Messages shared by grassroots partners, longtime supporters and friends of IDS during its 50th anniversary.
Friends, partners and co-learners
IDS is not just our donor—they are friends, partners and co-learners in our journey.
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On this momentous occasion, we congratulate IDS on a journey of passion, hard work and solidarity. Its support of grassroots institutions and proximate leaders has been of great value. We see this partnership unfold beautifully in our relationship and send our strength, love and hope for the many years ahead.
Helping people find dignity and a voice
Because of IDS, waste pickers gained a voice, dignity of work and new opportunities for their children.
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IDS support helped AVANI organize waste pickers, address child labor and create pathways to dignified livelihoods. Women began green businesses, secured work contracts and received identity cards. Their children gained access to scholarships and continued education. I am deeply thankful for IDS’s generous support and wish the organization many more years of service.
Going from strength to strength
The goodness within IDS contributes financially to our cause and also strengthens the goodness within our own organization.
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IDS is a group of well-meaning people giving back to their roots and taking on the momentous task of supporting underserved communities. For 50 years, they have reached organizations across the length and breadth of India. I am grateful and proud that Shraddha and IDS are in collaboration. God bless IDS.
Sustainable, community-driven change
IDS’s unwavering support empowers us to create sustainable change in some of the most vulnerable regions.
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Our partnership with IDS has strengthened grassroots initiatives addressing water security, child protection and food security. This support enables sustainable, community-led progress. IDS’s 50th anniversary reflects tireless effort and profound impact, and we are honored to be part of this inspiring journey.
Empowering farmers and protecting the Himalayas
Together, we have improved livelihoods while strengthening the Himalayan environment.
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Through Project Empower HEALTH, IDS and SankalpTaru supported rosemary cultivation, nurseries and new livelihood opportunities for rural farmers. IDS also helped plant native Himalayan trees, preserve ecosystems and reduce landslide risk. We extend our heartfelt thanks and wish IDS continued success.
A journey led by kindness and commitment
We feel proud and humbled to be a small part of this remarkable journey with IDS.
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IDS is made up of individuals with kind hearts and a deep commitment to creating meaningful change. We wish the organization the very best and look forward to continuing to learn from and contribute to its journey.
Five decades of extraordinary service
IDS has transformed lives and communities by providing hope, support and opportunities.
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IDS’s 50-year journey is a testament to unwavering commitment. Its compassionate programs have created resilience and success, while seed support has helped NGOs build capacity and empower communities. We are grateful to the entire IDS family and look forward to many more years of positive change.
Slow, sure and dignified change
With a small amount of funding, IDS helps people become independent and live with dignity.
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Social change is slow and demanding, yet IDS has worked relentlessly for 50 years. Its dedication to empowering marginalized communities, thoughtful intent and sound processes create lasting progress. Until the world is equal and just, it is important to support organizations like IDS.
Every voice reflects a shared belief.
Lasting change begins when committed people stand beside communities, listen deeply and help create opportunities rooted in dignity.