Double the Impact, Twice the Pride

We’re proud to announce that United Way has been honoured with two prestigious awards at the 7th ICC Social Impact Awards 2025!

Our work in Wayanad was celebrated under the Healthcare category for making meaningful strides in community well-being. And our one-of-a-kind Safe Space Centre for the LGBTQ+ community, under the campaign AIKYAM, was recognized under the Diversity, Equity & Inclusion (DEI) category.

Here’s to creating change that matters, and building a world that includes everyone.

A Safe Space for the LGBTQ+ Community

“Leave No One Behind” — the promise of the UN’s 2030 Agenda — remains distant for many in the LGBTQ+ community.

Despite the conversations on inclusion, acceptance is still out of reach. Discrimination, stigma, and violence are everyday realities in India, making access to basic rights like healthcare, education, housing, and jobs a challenge. Many are pushed to the margins, often into begging or sex work, stripped of dignity and safety.

The First Safe Space Centre

In 2022, United Way Bengaluru (UWBe) established its first Safe Space for the LGBTQIA+ community in Guttahalli. More than just a center, it is a judgment-free environment with access to healthcare, counselling, legal aid, and livelihood support. It also fosters community connection and awareness on rights, identity, and support systems.

Cooked Meal Intervention

In 2022, UWBe, under its Rural Rising campaign, launched a focused initiative to improve the nutritional status of children, particularly in tribal communities, and create a healthier, more informed ecosystem around child nutrition.

Creating Child-Friendly Spaces and Nutritious Plates

As part of the initiative, 30 Anganwadi Centres (AWCs) were refurbished into vibrant, child-friendly spaces – safe havens where learning and nourishment go hand in hand. In 42 AWCs, a Cooked Meal Intervention was introduced, designed to meet the micro-nutrient needs of young children.

Co-Active Kitchens: Where Nutrition Meets Inclusion

One of the most innovative aspects of the initiative has been the Co-Active Kitchens for Enrichment (CAKE) program. These community kitchens engaged mothers in hands-on cooking demonstrations using locally available ingredients.

Conclusion

As an organisation that works on various projects in multiple thematic areas, United Way Bengaluru has vast reach in terms of the social impact we create. Flagship programs address early childhood care, climate action, and livelihood support for rural women.

We are honoured that our efforts have been acknowledged as we continue to work towards contributing to the development of the communities we work with.