Lahore, the second-largest city in Pakistan, is widely recognized as the cultural heart of the country, known for its rich history, magnificent architecture, and mouthwatering cuisine. However, what often goes unnoticed is the city’s thriving non-profit sector, consisting of numerous NGOs (Non-Governmental Organisations) that are dedicated to addressing a wide range of social issues.
These organisations operate on the principle of compassion and are driven by a deep-seated desire to make a difference in the lives of underprivileged and marginalised communities. They tirelessly work towards creating sustainable solutions to social problems, such as poverty, illiteracy, lack of healthcare, gender inequality, and child labour.
Graana.com has prepared a list of the best NGOs In Lahore below:
Reputed NGOs Working In Lahore
The NGOs in Lahore operate in a wide range of areas, including education, health, human rights, environment, and disaster relief. They offer a range of services, such as vocational training, healthcare facilities, legal aid, counselling, and advocacy, among others.
The impact of these NGOs on society is immeasurable, as they provide a vital tapestry of support to the most vulnerable sections of the population. The selfless efforts of these organisations have helped transform the lives of countless individuals and communities and continue to inspire hope for a better tomorrow.
What Does NGO mean?
An NGO, also known as a Non-Governmental Organisation, is a group of individuals or an organisation that operates independently of any government. They are typically non-profit and focus on a wide range of social, environmental, or political issues. NGOs are characterised by their independence, non-profit status, social mission, diversity, and wide range of activities.
Independence
One of the key characteristics of NGOs is their independence. They are not controlled by any government, though they may receive funding from governments or other sources. This allows them to work towards their social mission without being influenced by political pressures.
Non-profit
NGOs are also non-profit organisations that are not primarily motivated by profit, though they may generate income to support their activities. This enables them to remain focused on their social mission and to allocate resources in the best interest of the community they serve.
Diversity
NGOs come in all shapes and sizes, from small local groups to large international organisations. This diversity allows them to have a broad impact on society and to address a wide range of issues that affect people and the environment.
Activities
Finally, NGOs engage in a wide range of activities, such as providing services to the community, such as healthcare, education, and disaster relief, advocating for policy changes to improve the lives of people or the environment, conducting research and raising awareness about important issues. These activities enable NGOs to make a significant impact on society and to work towards a better future for all.
Types of NGOs
There are many ways to categorise NGOs, depending on their scope, mission, focus, and other factors. Here are some of the most common types:
Scope
- International NGOs (INGOs): These organisations operate across several countries, often with headquarters in developed nations and field offices in developing countries. Examples include Oxfam, Save the Children, and Greenpeace.
- National NGOs (NNGOs): These organisations operate within a single country, focusing on national issues and development. Examples include BRAC in Bangladesh, Aga Khan Development Network, and Pratham in India.
- Community-Based Organizations (CBOs): These organisations operate within a specific community, addressing local needs and challenges. Examples include neighbourhood associations, women’s groups, and youth groups.
Mission
- Operational NGOs: These organisations directly implement projects and programs to address specific issues. Examples include building schools, providing healthcare services, or distributing emergency relief.
- Advocacy NGOs: These organisations focus on raising awareness, lobbying for policy changes, and influencing public opinion. Examples include human rights groups, environmental organisations, and consumer protection groups.
- Membership-Based NGOs: These organisations are formed by individuals who share a common interest or concern. Examples include professional associations, religious organisations, and sports clubs.
Focus
- Developmental NGOs: These organisations focus on promoting sustainable development and improving the lives of people in developing countries. Examples include CARE, World Vision, and WaterAid.
- Environmental NGOs: These organisations focus on protecting the environment and promoting sustainable practices. Examples include Greenpeace, WWF, and Friends of the Earth.
- Human Rights NGOs: These organisations focus on protecting human rights and promoting justice. Examples include Amnesty International, Human Rights Watch, and Freedom House.
Other types of NGOs
- Religious NGOs: These organisations are affiliated with a particular religion and work to promote its values and teachings. Examples include Caritas Internationalis and World Vision.
- Business NGOs: These organisations are formed by businesses to promote corporate social responsibility and philanthropy. Examples include the Clinton Foundation and the Gates Foundation.
List Of NGOs In Lahore
Here’s a list of NGOs in Lahore Pakistan along with brief descriptions:
| Category | Name | Contact Information | Description | Website |
| Welfare | Kawish Welfare Trust | H. No, 157, Block F Phase 1 Johar Town, Lahore, Punjab 54600 tarin.ammar@gmail.commanagement@kawish-welfare-trust.org+92-42-35175282 +92-42-35175280 | Works towards welfare initiatives such as Education and Training Education and Literacy Poverty Alleviation Health. | https://www.kawish-welfare-trust.org/contact_us.php |
| Human Development | Democratic Commission For Human Development | 186 N Model Town Extension Lahore | A commission dedicated to human development. | https://dchd.org.pk/# |
| Child Welfare | CCF- Child Care Foundation of Pakistan | Child Care Foundation of Pakistan A-6-A-E, 105, New Super Town, Defence Main Boulevard, Lahore
ceo.ccfp@gmail.com | Provides care and support for children in Pakistan. | https://ccfp.org.pk/ |
| Education, Welfare | Al-Gohar Educational & Welfare Society Lahore | Plot no 5, block 3, Sector D-II, Green Town, Lahore- Pakistan 0321-2546427042-35233555042-35116263 info@algohar.org | Focuses on education and welfare in Lahore. | https://algohar.org/ |
| Humanitarian Services, Welfare | Caritas Pakistan | 23/3 Race Course Road Lahore, Pakistan info@caritas.org.pk +92-42-36315584-5 | A humanitarian organisation providing various services such as environmental and Climate Disaster Recovery and Management Health WASh. | https://caritas.org.pk/ |
| Humanitarian Services, Welfare | Buksh Foundation | 57-L Javed Iqbal Street، off MM Alam Rd, Block T Gulberg 2, Lahore, Punjab 54000 0300 8577400 | Engaged in various charitable activities. | NA |
| Poverty Alleviation | Wasil Foundation | 1st Floor House #6, Noon Avenue, Tariq St, Muslim Town, Lahore, Punjab 54000 042) 35834101 | A foundation with a focus on diverse areas. | https://wasil.org.pk/ |
| Agriculture | Agribusiness Support Fund (ASF) | ASF, Lahore Pakistan | Supports and promotes agribusiness in Pakistan. | https://agribusiness.org.pk/ |
| Youth Development | NGP-Next Generation Pakistan | 2nd Floor, 9 Fane Road, Mozang Chungi, Lahore, Punjab 54000 0333 8620737 | Aims to contribute to the next generation’s development. | https://ngp.org.pk/ |
Other NGO’s
| We The Youth | Lahore, Pakistan | 0332 6514141, usman@wetheyouth.org | Youth Development and Empowerment | We The Youth |
| Ali Etemad | Lahore, Pakistan | 0331 9297553, aietemad@aietemad.org | Financial Support for Higher Education | Ali Etemad |
| Al-Khair Foundation | CC Masjid, 36-Sector CCA DHA Phase 4, Lahore, Punjab | 0300 0999786 | Welfare and Humanitarian Activities | Al-Khair Foundation |
| Research Foundation for Humanity (RFFH) | P14, Marghzar Colony, Multan Road, Lahore, 54000 | +92-335-5260444, admin@rfh.com.pk | Research and Initiatives for Humanity | RFFH |
| Naya Savera | 153 CC/A, Commercial Area, Phase 4, DHA, Lahore, Pakistan | 0324 6800011, nayasaverapk@gmail.com | Welfare Initiatives for a New Dawn | Naya Savera |
| Ansar-ul-Ilm Foundation School | 96-6-A-2, Township, Lahore | +92322-4547224, shahid.javed99@gmail.com (Shahid Javed), +92312-4385153, faisal.muslim@gmail.com (Faisal Muslim) | Education and Enlightenment | AIF School |
| Citizens’ Commission for Human Development (CCHD) | 42-Tipu Block, New Garden Town, Lahore | 012345678, info@cchd.org.pk | Human Rights, Justice, Peace, Education | CCHD |
Education Ngos In Lahore
Here is the list of Education Ngos In Lahore:
| Name | Abbreviation | Description | Website | Location |
| AlKhidmat Foundation | – | Involved in humanitarian services work since 1990. | AlKhidmat Foundation Website | Alkhidmat Foundation Head Office, 3km Khayaban-e-Jinnah, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan Phone: +92 42 3595 7260 Email: info@alkhidmat.org |
| Arfa Karim Foundation | – | Works in education, social innovation, and community development. | Arfa Karim Foundation Website | 9th Floor – Suite 9, ARFA Tower, 346B Lahore – Kasur Road, Nishtar Town, Lahore, Punjab 54600, Pakistan
+92 42 35972095 |
| Idara E Taleem O Aagahi ITA | – | One of the biggest NGOs for Education in Pakistan. | ITA Website | 1/A, Canal Park, Gulberg II, Lahore, Pakistan (+92) (42) 35711107-9 info@itacec.org |
| Kaarvan Foundation | – | Focuses on poverty alleviation and arts and culture. | Kaarvan Foundation Website | 137-1 Block C Model Town Lahore +92 423 585 7485 www.kaarvan.com.pk |
| SOS Children’s Villages Pakistan | SOS | Works for the welfare, education, and upbringing of orphans. | SOS Children’s Villages Pakistan Website | SOS Children’s Villages of Pakistan Ferozepur Road, Lahore-54600, Pakistan 92-42-35918035-6+92-42-35917846-7national@sos.org.pk |
| Umang Pakistan – 24 Hrs Free Mental Health Helpline | – | Provides 24/7 mental health helpline services. | Umang Pakistan Website | Lahore, Pakistan (92) 0311 7786264 / 0311 (77 UMANG)info@umang.com.pk |
Environmental NGOs In Lahore
Here is the list of Environmental NGOs In Lahore:
| Name | Abbreviation | Description | Website | Location |
| World Wide Fund for Nature | WWF Pakistan | Works for wilderness preservation and reducing human impact on the environment. | WWF Pakistan Website | Ferozepur Road, Inside Ali Institute of Education, Lahore, Punjab 042-35465972-77 |
| Brooke Hospital For Animals (Pakistan) | – | Works for animal welfare and rescue in Pakistan. | Brooke Hospital Website | 9/295 Sarwar Road Lahore Cantt Pakistan 54810 +92 42 36650751 info@thebrooke.org.pk |
| Transparent Hands | – | One of the largest crowdfunding platforms in the healthcare sector in Pakistan. | Transparent Hands Website | Plot 605, Block C Faisal Town, Lahore, Punjab, Pakistan UAN: 0304-1111-411 info@transparenthands.org |
FAQs
Here are some FAQs on NGOs in Lahore, Pakistan:
1. What types of NGOs are there in Lahore?
Lahore boasts a diverse range of NGOs, tackling issues like education, healthcare, women’s empowerment, environmental protection, social welfare, and more.
2. What are some prominent NGOs in Lahore?
HEAL (Health Education and Literacy Trust), Idara Aaghosh, Transparent Hands, Sahil, Kawish Welfare Trust, Democratic Commission for Human Development, World Wildlife Fund Pakistan, Lahore Wildlife Foundation, Ajoka Theatre, and Naya Savera are just a few examples.
3. Do NGOs in Lahore offer volunteer opportunities?
Absolutely! Many Lahore NGOs welcome volunteers, offering valuable learning experiences and the chance to contribute to social change. Check their websites or reach out directly to inquire about current opportunities.
4. How can I donate to NGOs in Lahore?
Donations are crucial for NGO sustainability. Most organisations have online donation platforms, accept bank transfers, or welcome direct contributions at their offices. Explore their websites or social media pages for specific details.
5. Are there NGOs focusing on specific issues I care about?
Yes, definitely! Research potential NGOs based on your areas of interest, such as child welfare, animal rights, or cultural preservation. Lahore’s NGO landscape caters to diverse concerns.
6. How can I find trusted NGOs in Lahore?
Look for organisations registered with the Pakistan Social Welfare Department. Check online reviews, media coverage, and financial transparency on their websites. Consider their impact and alignment with your values.
7. Do NGOs in Lahore collaborate with each other?
Collaboration is quite common! Many NGOs partner to leverage their strengths, maximise impact, and address complex issues holistically. This strengthens Lahore’s social sector.
8. Can NGOs advocate for policy changes in Pakistan?
Yes, advocacy is a core function of many NGOs. They raise awareness, lobby government officials, and engage in public campaigns to influence policy decisions for social betterment.
9. Do NGOs contribute to economic development in Lahore?
NGOs create jobs, empower communities, and support local businesses. Their work on education, healthcare, and infrastructure improvement indirectly enhances economic potential and fosters sustainable development.
10. How can I stay informed about NGO activities in Lahore?
Many Lahore NGOs host events, workshops, and awareness campaigns. Follow their social media pages, subscribe to newsletters, and attend relevant gatherings to stay updated on their work.
11. Are there opportunities for young people to engage with NGOs in Lahore?
Absolutely! Several NGOs actively involve young people through volunteer programs, leadership training, and youth-led initiatives. Explore opportunities and consider internships or project collaborations.
12. Can I start my own NGO in Lahore?
Yes, the process involves registering with the Social Welfare Department, fulfilling legal requirements, and building a strong team and mission. Seek guidance from established NGOs or relevant government agencies.
13. How can I measure the impact of NGOs in Lahore?
Many NGOs publish annual reports detailing their activities, achievements, and beneficiaries. Look for independent evaluations and impact assessments conducted by credible organisations.
14. Do NGOs face challenges in Lahore?
Funding limitations, bureaucratic hurdles, security concerns, and societal biases can pose challenges for some NGOs. Public support, advocacy, and collaborative efforts are crucial to address these.
15. How can I make a difference through NGOs in Lahore?
Volunteer your time, donate resources, raise awareness, support their campaigns, and advocate for their causes. Every contribution, big or small, can make a significant difference in Lahore’s social landscape.
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