Who We Are
Architects and planners founded Shelter Associates in 1993 in Pune, India. Shelter Associates and Baandhani, an informal federation of the poor, work together with local authorities to facilitate the development of basic infrastructure and new housing for the slum dwellers and those living in informal communities.
In large cities in India, almost half of the population lives in informal or slum settlements, often without adequate access to the basic amenities like clean water and sanitation. The poor are a vital part of the city, yet urban planning often ignores or neglects their contribution. Shelter Associates works to prevent the marginalization of the poor by incorporating them into formal housing and urban planning systems.
Baandhani Partnership
Shelter Associates created the Baandhani partnership to empower women in urban settlements. By forming Baandhani groups, the women in these settlements work together to improve their settlement and expand their horizons.
Our Vision/Mission
Shelter Associates works with the urban poor to improve their lives and living standards within their settlements. Read our full mission statement here.
Recognition
Shelter Associates has been recognised all over the world as leaders in slum rehabilitation. Take a look at our most recent recognitions here.
Our Team
At Shelter Associates we have an experienced team of experts and social workers, dedicated to improving living standards within informal and slum settlements. Meet our team here.
Our Trustees
Shelter Associates has a highly regarded board of trustees who oversee the running of the NGO. Meet the board here.
Past Volunteers
Shelter Associates attracts volunteers from all over the world. Meet some of our past volunteers and find out about their work with Shelter here.
Interested in Volunteering?
We are always looking for volunteers, from architects to filmmakers, who can help us with our various projects. Find out how to volunteer with us here.
