Background and the Founders:

 

 Chaithanya Mahila Mandali, founded in 2001 by the compassionate social worker and visionary, Mr. Jaya Singh Thomas, emerged from a profound sense of duty and an unwavering commitment to make a difference in the lives of vulnerable women and children.

 

Mr. Thomas's journey began in 1999 when he encountered the heart-wrenching story of Ms. Jayamma, the first woman he rescued from the clutches of sexual slavery during his research on street children and women in sex work/prostitution in Hyderabad City. Witnessing the dire circumstances faced by these marginalized individuals, Mr. Thomas resolved to extend a lifeline to those affected by social injustice, poverty, and hunger, especially those trapped in the cycle of sex work. This initial encounter ignited a spark of hope and positivity that transformed him into a silent yet resolute activist.

 

With a clear vision and unwavering determination, Mr. Thomas established Chaithanya Mahila Mandali, initially offering aid to Jayamma and other survivors. The organization officially became a registered nonprofit on January 24, 2001.

 

Over the years, CMM's efforts gained recognition from the government and various stakeholders. Their work spanned a wide spectrum of services, ranging from empowering survivors to preventing second-generation children and girls from falling victim to sexual slavery. The organization actively campaigned to combat sexually transmitted infections among high-risk communities, receiving support from entities such as the Government of India (Ministry of Health and Family Welfare), FHI, Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation, and more.

 

CMM collaborated with Rajiv Vidya Mission to establish Residential Children's Homes, aimed at providing a safe haven for children of sex-trafficked victims. They also initiated skill development programs, reproductive health and rights education, and educational support for high-risk children and youth. Their efforts garnered support from individuals and likeminded national and international organizations, creating alternate livelihood opportunities for those seeking to leave the world of sex work.

 

Since its legal registration, CMM has tirelessly worked to identify and support women and girls ensnared in exploitation, providing emotional and moral support and helping them reintegrate into society. They have counseled and empowered these survivors, enabling them to break free from the chains of prostitution and become advocates against human trafficking. CMM also partnered with government agencies to combat HIV/AIDS among at-risk populations, ultimately serving as a model for educating individuals in sexual slavery about safer sex practices.

 

Their collaboration with the police force has led to a significant reduction in false case filings against victims of human trafficking. As a result, hundreds of women have been rescued, rehabilitated, and given the chance to live the lives they once could only dream of.

 

Through their unwavering dedication, CMM has transformed the lives of countless children and women affected by sexual slavery. They have heightened awareness about human trafficking, significantly reduced new HIV/AIDS cases, and provided education and opportunities for the children of survivors to lead dignified lives.

 

Chaithanya Mahila Mandali stands as a shining example of what can be achieved when one person's compassion and determination spark a movement for positive change, impacting not only individuals but also entire communities.

 

Our journey has been marked by numerous accolades, awards, and recognition bestowed upon us by well-wishers, organizations, and governments at the state, central, national, and international levels. These accolades have not only validated our efforts but also instilled in us a profound sense of responsibility and a commitment to uphold the laws of our country.

 

However, the true honor lies in the satisfaction we experience at the end of each day. It's in the transformation we witness, the lives we touch, and the change we bring about in the individuals we serve. This fulfillment fuels our unwavering dedication, and it's a testament to the profound impact we can have when we commit our lives to a cause greater than ourselves.

 

Every day, as we see lives transformed and hope restored, we are reminded that our mission is not just a duty but a calling. It's a reminder that even in the face of adversity, we can make a positive difference, and that's a source of inspiration that keeps us steadfast on this extraordinary journey of compassion and change.

   

VISION

"To empower vulnerable children, youth, and women by addressing illiteracy, human-made social injustices, abuse, poverty, and hunger, thereby shaping a brighter and more equitable future."

 

MISSION

Our mission is to discover and implement enduring solutions to combat human-made social injustices, poverty, and hunger. We achieve this by identifying, safeguarding, empowering, and fostering CMM's vision to serve as a compelling role model for a brighter and more equitable future."

 

VALUES

Solidarity

Partnership

Empowerment

Strive for excellence

Accountability

Non-discrimination

Subsidiarity

 

STANDARDS :

 

At CMM, our guiding principles and standards reflect our commitment to inclusivity, compassion, and social responsibility:

 

Inclusivity Without Bias: CMM extends its services to all individuals who are in need of our support that meets our criteria within our target group of children,youth and women in vulnerable situations and locations, irrespective of religion, caste, race, or ethnicity, ensuring equal access to our support and care.

 

Non-Judgmental Stance: While we do not encourage prostitution, we do not pass judgment on those engaged in it. We recognize that many individuals have been forced into this life, and our approach is rooted in empathy and understanding.

 

Advocacy for Second-Generation Prevention: CMM actively supports initiatives aimed at preventing the second generation from entering the cycle of prostitution, acknowledging the intergenerational impact of this social issue.

 

Rehabilitation with Dignity: We believe in rehabilitation but not through force. Our approach centers on empowering individuals to make informed choices for themselves and rebuild their lives with dignity.

 

Focus on Victims, Not Culprits: Children, girls, and women in prostitution are seen as victims, not culprits. We advocate for holding those who exploit and coerce them accountable for their actions.

 

OBJECTIVES :

 

In pursuit of our mission, CMM sets the following objectives:

 

Collaboration: We actively seek partnerships with like-minded institutions and individuals, both within India and globally, to amplify our impact and drive positive change.

 

Unleashing Inner Potential: CMM aims to identify and harness the inherent potential within individuals, including children, youth, and women, to enable them to achieve their full capabilities.

 

Knowledge Sharing: We embrace media and research as tools to share knowledge and experiences, fostering a culture of transparency and learning.

Promoting Volunteering: CMM encourages volunteering, both on a national and international scale, to engage individuals in our mission and facilitate their personal growth.

 

Health and Well-Being: We strive to empower our target group—children, youth, and women at risk—with knowledge and resources to lead healthy and fulfilling lives. This includes promoting sports, raising awareness, facilitating informed decision-making, and more.

 

CMM's Focus Areas:

 

Education and Awareness: CMM's primary focus is on children, youth, and women at risk, most of whom have been trafficked and forced into sex work. We provide vital information about AIDS and reproductive diseases, aim to prevent children from entering the sex trade, and offer educational support.

Rehabilitation: For those willing to be rehabilitated, CMM provides support to rebuild their lives, emphasizing empowerment through institutional and community-based assistance, education, and training.

 

Healthcare: We offer essential medical aid to address the healthcare needs of our target group.

 

Child Welfare: CMM is dedicated to providing care, homes, and essential facilities to orphaned children, ensuring they have a nurturing environment to thrive.

 

Community Building: We actively engage with sex workers and those affected by HIV/AIDS, promoting their participation in a robust network of support and empowerment.

 

Economic Empowerment: CMM facilitates economic development through skill development trainings , offering individuals the means to achieve the skills to be financially independent.

 

Counseling and Support: CMM offers counseling services to address various situations and challenges faced by our beneficiaries, empowering them to navigate their lives with resilience and confidence.

 

Education and Job Training: We provide educational support, both institution-based and community-based, and offer job-oriented training programs to equip individuals with the skills needed for sustainable livelihoods.

 

At CMM, our unwavering commitment is to serve as a catalyst for transformative change, providing hope, dignity, and opportunities for a brighter future to those who need it most.