Dharmam Charitable Trust
Our Story

About DHARMAM

A charitable trust founded with the conviction that education is the most powerful tool to break the cycle of poverty.

Indian children in a classroom learning with Dharmam Charitable Trust support in Chennai
Indian teacher conducting a lesson for underprivileged students in Tamil Nadu
Indian students smiling and engaged in learning activities at a Dharmam Trust event
Who We Are

Rooted in Chennai,
Driven by Purpose

DHARMAM Charitable Trust was established in 2019 in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, with a singular focus: ensuring that no child's potential is limited by the circumstances of their birth.

The word "Dharmam" reflects our core belief in righteous duty — the responsibility each of us holds toward the vulnerable members of our community. We operate on the principle that sustainable change comes through education, not charity alone.

Our programs span educational support, after-school coaching, health awareness camps, student mentorship, life skills training, and community development. We work in direct partnership with local schools, hospitals, and government bodies to maximize impact.

2019
Year Established
Chennai
Headquartered
9
Active Programs
180+
Volunteers
Dharmam Trust volunteer teaching Indian children in a Chennai classroom setting
Indian children smiling and holding books at a Dharmam educational event in Tamil Nadu
Health camp organized by Dharmam Trust providing free medical checkups for Indian families
Community development workshop conducted by Dharmam Charitable Trust volunteers in Chennai
Foundation

Mission, Vision & Objectives

Our Vision

A society where every child, regardless of economic background, has equal access to quality education, healthcare, and opportunities to thrive.

Our Mission

To empower underprivileged children and communities in Chennai through holistic programs in education, healthcare, mentorship, and life skills development.

Our Values

Compassion, Transparency, Integrity, Community-First, Sustainable Impact. We believe in righteous duty (Dharmam) toward every individual we serve.

Our Objectives

Provide free educational materials and support to underprivileged students

Run after-school coaching and academic support programs

Conduct free health camps and medical assistance programs

Offer career guidance and mentorship to first-generation learners

Develop life skills and counseling programs for holistic growth

Build community development initiatives addressing root causes of poverty

Engage volunteers meaningfully in structured social impact programs

Support employment and vocational training for youth

Our Journey

Six Years of Impact

2019

Trust Established

DHARMAM Charitable Trust registered in Chennai. First educational support program launched serving 50 students.

2020

Community Expansion

Expanded to 3 communities. Launched health awareness camps during the pandemic, reaching 500+ families.

2021

After-School Programs

Formal after-school coaching centers established. 200 students enrolled. Volunteer network grew to 50 members.

2022

Mentorship Launch

Student Mentorship Program launched with 30 professional mentors. First batch of 60 students received career guidance.

2023

Healthcare Initiative

20 medical camps conducted. Employment Support Initiative launched. Volunteer base surpassed 100 members.

2024

Scaling Impact

2,400+ students supported. 48 health camps. 9 active programs. 180+ volunteers. Recognized by local government.

Leadership

Meet the Founder

S. Kathiravan, Founder and Managing Trustee of Dharmam Charitable Trust, Chennai
S. KATHIRAVAN
MA. LLB.
Founder & Managing Trustee

S. Kathiravan, MA. LLB.

With a background in law (LLB) and arts (MA), S. Kathiravan founded DHARMAM Charitable Trust in 2019 driven by a deep commitment to social justice and education equity. His legal expertise ensures the trust operates with full transparency and compliance, while his community roots in Chennai keep the organization grounded in genuine need.

" Dharmam is not just a value — it is a way of life. It drives us to create impact where it matters most. Education is a right, Our mission is to ensure education reaches even the most unreachable corners."