About Us
Maithree: Empowering Lives with Dignity
A Parent-Led Movement Empowering Lives through Special Education, Skills & Care
Who We Are
Maithree is a parent-driven NGO in Chennai dedicated to empowering children and adults with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Founded in 1994 by a group of passionate parents, we have grown into a trusted community organization supporting 540+ individuals through education, vocational training, residential care, and social enterprises. At Maithree, we believe that every individual deserves dignity, inclusion, and equal opportunity to thrive.
Our Vision
“To Integrate the Persons with Intellectual & Developmental Disabilities (PwIDD) into the mainstream thereby bringing dignity to their lives”.
Our Mission
– To reach the Persons with IDD by providing an array of services duly supported with appropriate infrastructure and qualified personnel.
– To create an awareness and acceptance both in the society and the families of such persons by providing necessary support.
Our Journey: How We Began & Where We Stan
Roots in Connection
The idea of Maithree sprouted from regular coffee-table conversations among parents of exceptional children in 1993. By January 15, 1994, Maithree was formally inaugurated—and soon registered under the Societies Act in February that year.
First Steps in Service
On August 15, 1994, our first school was born in Perambur, functioning out of a family home with one special educator and three children. Over the years, we grew steadily—opening new centers, launching fundraising efforts, and expanding our footprint. A vocational lab, satellite centers, summer camps, and fundraising drives marked the evolution from a small association to a structured, impactful movement.
Today
- We now reach 500+ beneficiaries through 18 satellite centres across Chennai.
- Our team comprises 78+ professionals and dedicated caregivers who bring expertise and empathy to every step of our work.
Objectives at Work
01.
Education
Foster functional competence through an Individualized Education Plan tailored to each child’s abilities.
02.
Skilling
Smooth transitions from education to vocational training for greater independence.
03.
Vocation
Encourage individuals to actively contribute to society, leveraging their talents meaningfully.
04.
Independent Living
Provide nurturing residential care for families concerned about the future.
What We Do
Empowering Through Care, Education & Inclusion
Our special education programs use Individualised Education Plans (IEPs), functional academics, and therapies to nurture every child’s abilities. Parents are active partners, making learning meaningful and inclusive.
We provide competency-based vocational training with real-world apprenticeship models. Graduates are placed in sheltered workshops or assisted employment, helping them build confidence and financial independence.
Our group homes are designed for comfort, safety, and independence. With personalized care covering hygiene, meals, health, and social life, residents thrive in a nurturing, family-like environment.
Through Aakruti, our social enterprise, adults with disabilities design and handcraft eco-friendly products like tote bags, sambrani, plants, and festive items. Each product carries the spirit of dignity and empowerment.
We empower parents with counselling, workshops, and awareness programs that build acceptance, resilience, and community inclusion. Parents become not just caregivers but co-educators and advocates.
Our Well-Wishers & Partners
At Maithree, we are deeply grateful to our corporate partners, donors, and well-wishers whose support makes our mission possible. Your contributions help us provide special education, vocational training, residential care, and livelihood opportunities for persons with intellectual disabilities.
Together, we are building a world where differences are celebrated and every individual lives with dignity and independence.
