Since its founding in 1959, we have worked tirelessly to make it possible for people with disabilities (PWDs) to fully participate in all aspects of society, including but not limited to interventions in healthcare, education, employment, and advocacy.
From our headquarters in Bangalore, we administer programmes across urban and rural South India, serving people of all ages who suffer from a wide variety of physical and mental disabilities.
We believe that every policy, intervention, or action about PWDs should be taken with their participation in that decision. Our work as a facilitator, integrator, and catalyst of change, aims to increase the social, political and economic influence of people with disabilities in society.
Disabled people are more than just beneficiaries; they are fully capable members of society who want the opportunity to realise their full potential.
To act honestly, ethically, and responsibly in all aspects, adhering to principles of fairness, reliability, loyalty, and lawfulness.
To be sensitive to feelings, thoughts, emotions, and experiences by developing the capacity to understand another’s perspective, appreciate it, and respond with care.
To demonstrate responsibility, transparency, and commitment to the highest standards of openness, professionalism, and integrity with all stakeholders.
To ensure participatory processes, knowledge sharing, teamwork, and consensus building for meaningful partnerships with varied stakeholders.
To work towards excellence in process, product, and service delivery by listening, committing to continuous improvement and innovation, and developing a conducive environment for individuals to realise their potential.
To nurture an internal ecosystem where people of diverse genders, cultures, abilities, views, and needs are respected and given equal opportunities at work.
Our story began when N S Hema, a 17-year-old girl affected by polio, travelled to Mumbai seeking medical intervention and discovered the Fellowship of the Physically Handicapped. The rehabilitation centre, founded by Fatima Ismail, supported many people with disability, helping them find their independence and inspiring N S Hema to do the same.
On returning to Bangalore, her father connected with N D Diwan, an ex-serviceman, and Rev I L Thomas, Principal of Bishop Cotton School, Bangalore, both of whom were wheelchair users. Together, they discussed the need for such a rehabilitation and therapy centre in Bangalore. Thus, in 1959, the Association of People with Disability was born.
Honorary President
& Trustee
Honorary Vice President
& Trustee
Honorary Secretary
& Trustee
Honorary Treasurer
& Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Trustee
Member
Member
Member
Member
CEO
Director – Fundraising & Communications
Director – Policy & Advocacy
and Govt Interface
Deputy Director – Policy & Advocacy and Govt Interface
Director – Community Mental Health Program & Life Cycle Approach
Director – Environment & Horticulture
Director – Life Cycle Approach Projects & Divisional Head
Director – Inclusive Education & Academics
Director – Health & Rehab
Director – Livelihood
Director – Admin & Finance
Director – Human Resources
Deputy Director – Community Mental Health
Asst. Director / Head – Fundraising & Communications
Head – Yes To Access
Principal – Shradhanjali Integrated Primary School
Head – Administration
Sr. Manager – MEAL & Strategic Partnerships
Project Head – Life Cycle Approach Project (LCA)
