Humanity
Empowering people who are marginalized and vulnerable.
Our story
Born from adversity. Built with compassion.
A child's future should not be decided by the circumstances of their birth. For more than two decades, Aai Samajsevi Sanstha has worked to replace abandonment with family, uncertainty with education, and vulnerability with opportunity.
It began with one child who needed a family.
The story of Aai began in 2004 in Beed, Maharashtra. Santosh Narayan Garje grew up in a family of sugarcane labourers in Patsara village.
A personal tragedy changed the direction of his life. His elder sister died during childbirth, leaving behind a young daughter who needed care and protection.
Instead of accepting the circumstances around him, Santosh chose to act. At just 18, he gave up his dream of becoming a school teacher and began caring for orphaned and vulnerable children.
In 2004 he established Sahara Anathalaya Pariwar, which later became known as Balgram. The journey began with seven children. Resources were few. He went from door to door seeking food and basic necessities.
The early years were difficult. The vision stayed clear: no child should have to face life alone.
Over time that small beginning grew into a family and a larger social mission. Aai Samajsevi Sanstha was formally registered in 2007. The Balgram campus developed in Georai taluka, Beed district.
From one child who needed a family to hundreds of lives touched — this is the journey of Aai.
Balgram Documentary - 2022
Founder
Santosh Narayan Garje
Santosh Garje is the founder of Aai Samajsevi Sanstha. His own experience of poverty and loss became the inspiration for Balgram.
That path — from a young man facing personal tragedy to a social worker dedicated to vulnerable children — has shaped the organisation’s philosophy of compassion, resilience and responsibility.
His work and Balgram’s model have received media attention through interviews, documentaries and news coverage.
Recognition named in the organisation’s documents (years not recorded there):
- Avinashi Seva Puraskar
- Marathwada Bhushan
- Zee Yuva Awards
- Swami Vivekanand Yuva Puraskar
- Vasant Gaurav Puraskar
A society where every child can live with love, dignity and hope.
We envision a society where life is not burdened by fear, abandonment or helplessness, and where every child has the opportunity to experience a joyful journey.
We aspire to create an environment where children are nurtured naturally, educated well, supported emotionally and socially, and empowered to become self-reliant and dignified citizens.
The vision extends beyond childhood — toward a society that respects its elderly, values agriculture and sustainable living, and encourages young people to contribute positively to their communities.
What we work for
Our mission is to ensure that vulnerable children find the warmth and security of a nurturing family while receiving the education, healthcare, life skills and opportunities required to build independent lives.
- A safe and nurturing family environment for orphaned and neglected children
- Access to quality education and healthcare
- Confidence, life skills and practical capabilities
- Support for young adults beyond the age of 18, toward independence
- Sports, arts, culture and public speaking, so children can discover their talents
- Agriculture, environmental awareness and sustainable living
- Dignity and well-being of elderly people
- Strengthening families wherever children can safely and appropriately be reunited
What we hold to
Sustainability
Building a greener and more responsible future.
Integrity
Leading with honesty and accountability.
Innovation
Finding better ways to create lasting impact.
Ethics
Nurturing responsible and compassionate citizens.
A family, not an institution.
We believe that children should not simply be “provided for.” They should be loved, heard, educated, encouraged, challenged, trusted and prepared for life.
That is why Balgram is designed around the idea of a family. Children share meals, celebrate festivals, participate in activities, learn together, support one another and grow together.
The organisation’s annual report describes Balgram as a place where children from different backgrounds find a second chance at life and become part of a new family.
