Looking to support or volunteer with an NGO in Pune? In 2026, Pune's social sector is thriving with organizations dedicated to causes like education, health, women's empowerment, and environmental protection. Whether you want to donate, volunteer, or collaborate, choosing the right NGO is key to making a meaningful impact.

This list covers some of the best NGOs in Pune, highlighting their focus areas, reputation, and how they serve the community. You'll find trusted names that have earned respect for transparency and effective programs.

1. Akanksha Foundation

Akanksha Foundation is a well-established NGO focused on providing quality education to underprivileged children in Pune. It runs several learning centers and schools, aiming to break the cycle of poverty through education.

• Location:

  Operates multiple centers across Pune, including areas like Kothrud and Hadapsar, easily accessible by public transport.

• Specialty:

  Education-focused programs for children from low-income families, including after-school support and life skills training.

• Experience:

  Known for its structured curriculum and strong community involvement, with positive feedback from parents and volunteers.

• Price Range:

  Services are free for beneficiaries; funding comes from donations and grants.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for those wanting to support education equity and volunteer in teaching or mentoring roles.

Perfect for education enthusiasts and volunteers looking to make a direct impact on children's learning outcomes in Pune.

2. Snehalaya Pune

Snehalaya Pune works extensively in women’s empowerment, child welfare, and HIV/AIDS care. It provides shelter, education, and vocational training to marginalized women and children.

• Location:

  Based in Pune city, with outreach programs in rural Maharashtra.

• Specialty:

  Rehabilitation of women and children affected by poverty, trafficking, and disease.

• Experience:

  Highly reputed for its holistic approach and long-term support systems.

• Price Range:

  Free services for beneficiaries; supported by donors and CSR initiatives.

• Why Visit:

  Recommended for those passionate about gender justice and health awareness campaigns.

Great for volunteers and donors focused on social justice, health, and rehabilitation services in Pune.

3. Teach For India Pune

Teach For India is part of a national fellowship program that places young professionals as teachers in low-income schools. The Pune chapter works to improve educational outcomes in underserved communities.

• Location:

  Works across Pune’s municipal schools, including areas like Pimpri-Chinchwad.

• Specialty:

  Fellowship program focused on quality education and leadership development.

• Experience:

  Recognized for innovative teaching methods and strong alumni network.

• Price Range:

  Fellowship is paid; educational services are free for students.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for young professionals seeking meaningful teaching experience and social impact.

Best suited for graduates and young adults wanting to contribute to education reform and youth leadership.

4. Apeksha Foundation

Apeksha Foundation focuses on child health and education, supporting children with disabilities and chronic illnesses through therapy, education, and family support.

• Location:

  Located near Pune University, accessible via Shivaji Nagar and Deccan areas.

• Specialty:

  Rehabilitation and inclusive education for differently-abled children.

• Experience:

  Known for compassionate care and professional therapy services.

• Price Range:

  Subsidized or free services depending on need; funded by donations.

• Why Visit:

  Recommended for families needing support and volunteers interested in special education.

Perfect for those seeking specialized child care services or wanting to volunteer in inclusive education.

5. Pratham Pune

Pratham is one of India's largest NGOs working to improve literacy and numeracy among children. The Pune branch runs community-based learning programs and early childhood education initiatives.

• Location:

  Active in slum areas and low-income neighborhoods across Pune.

• Specialty:

  Literacy programs, remedial education, and community mobilization.

• Experience:

  Highly regarded for scalable models and measurable impact.

• Price Range:

  Free educational services; funded through grants and donations.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for donors and volunteers focused on large-scale education outreach.

Great for supporters of literacy and community education programs in urban Pune.

6. Snehi Pune

Snehi Pune works with vulnerable populations including street children, women in distress, and elderly people, providing shelter, counseling, and rehabilitation.

• Location:

  Central Pune, near Shivaji Nagar, with outreach in surrounding areas.

• Specialty:

  Shelter homes, counseling services, and legal aid.

• Experience:

  Trusted for confidentiality and effective crisis intervention.

• Price Range:

  Services offered free to beneficiaries; funded by charitable donations.

• Why Visit:

  Recommended for those interested in social work and crisis management volunteering.

Best for volunteers and donors focused on mental health, shelter, and legal support services.

7. Environmentalist Foundation of India (EFI) Pune Chapter

EFI Pune is dedicated to environmental conservation, focusing on lake restoration, biodiversity, and community awareness programs in Pune.

• Location:

  Active in Pune’s lakes and green spaces, including Kharadi and Baner.

• Specialty:

  Ecological restoration, citizen science, and environmental education.

• Experience:

  Known for successful lake clean-up drives and youth engagement.

• Price Range:

  Volunteer-driven; no cost for participation.

• Why Visit:

  Ideal for eco-conscious individuals wanting hands-on environmental work.

Perfect for nature lovers and volunteers passionate about sustainability and urban ecology.

8. Snehalaya Foundation

Distinct from Snehalaya Pune, this NGO works on rural development and women’s self-help groups around Pune, empowering communities through livelihood training and microfinance.

• Location:

  Rural outskirts of Pune, including villages in Mulshi and Junnar talukas.

• Specialty:

  Women’s empowerment, livelihood programs, and rural education.

• Experience:

  Respected for grassroots impact and community trust.

• Price Range:

  Programs are free or low-cost; funded by grants and CSR.

• Why Visit:

  Recommended for donors and volunteers interested in rural upliftment.

Great for those wanting to support rural women’s economic independence and education.

When to Visit or Use These Best NGOs in Pune

Knowing when to engage with these NGOs can maximize your impact and experience.

• Volunteer during school holidays or festival seasons when many NGOs run special programs.

• Donate or support during annual fundraising drives, often held between October and December.

• Visit during awareness months like International Women’s Day or World Environment Day for special events.

• Consider regular volunteering for ongoing projects to build deeper connections and impact.

How to Choose the Best NGO in Pune

Choosing the right NGO depends on your interests, resources, and goals.

• Check the NGO’s registration and transparency records for credibility.

• Consider the cause that resonates most with you—education, health, environment, or women’s empowerment.

• Look for recent reviews or testimonials from beneficiaries and volunteers.

• Assess the NGO’s community reach and measurable impact reports.

• Evaluate the ease of access and your availability to volunteer or support.

• Understand the NGO’s funding sources and how donations are utilized.

By comparing these factors, you can select an NGO that aligns with your values and where your contribution will be most effective.

Conclusion

Pune hosts a diverse range of NGOs making significant social and environmental contributions. From education to women’s empowerment and environmental conservation, these organizations offer multiple ways to get involved and support meaningful causes.

Use this guide to explore trusted NGOs in Pune, helping you make informed decisions about volunteering, donating, or collaborating. Your support can create lasting change in Pune’s communities in 2026 and beyond.

FAQs

Which is the most reputed NGO for education in Pune?

Akanksha Foundation and Teach For India Pune are highly regarded for their education programs targeting underprivileged children.

How can I volunteer with NGOs in Pune?

Most NGOs have volunteer registration on their websites or social media pages. You can also visit their offices or contact them via phone for opportunities.

Are the services provided by these NGOs free?

Yes, most NGOs offer free or subsidized services to beneficiaries, funded through donations and grants.

Can I donate to these NGOs online?

Many NGOs accept online donations via their official websites or trusted platforms like GiveIndia and Benevity.

Do NGOs in Pune work in rural areas too?

Yes, several NGOs such as Snehalaya Foundation focus on rural development and women’s empowerment in villages around Pune.