About Us

Philosophy    Activities     Charter    Bylaws     

IFA's mission is to help change the face of India by becoming a catalyst in the economic self-sufficiency and empowerment of the underprivileged segments of Indian society.

India Friends Association (IFA) is an organization of Indian Americans and others dedicated to fostering grassroots development in India. It is located in Vetura County, California.

The IRS has determined that India Friends Association is exempt from federal income tax under section 501 (a) of the Internal Revenue Code as an organization described in section 501 (c) (3).

Group Structure:

  • Non-sectarian/non political
  • Democratic/non-hierarchical
  • Grassroots/community based
  • Networking while maintaining independence
IFA was started in 1993 by a group of Indian Americans in Southern California after the devastating Latur earthquake. Concerned about the red tape and corruption involved in charity work, they wanted to explore direct avenues for sending their support.  The resulting success of this endeavor and the satisfaction received encouraged them to make a long-term commitment.  The group has since evolved in to a solid organization with a well thought out charter and clear philosophy.  Neither a charity nor a debating society, IFA is designed to function as a catalyst in activities that promote economic empowerment and self sufficiency of the most under privileged population of India. Increasingly, it is seen by the diaspora as a vehicle to channelize their energies and resources into bringing about positive change in India.


Working Principles:

  • Assistance and cooperation towards self sufficiency, not charity or dependency
  • Building bridges by seeking participation rather than mere monetary contributions
  • Inclusive and voluntary. Compel none invite all
  • Flexibility, seek involvement and contribution at any and all levels
  • Frugality, aiming for the lowest possible overhead with most working expenses voluntarily borne by the members
  • Collective effort with emphasis on service
  • Democracy in thought, consensus in action
The core strengths of IFA are derived from its philosophy, group structure and working principles.  Our philosophy is rooted in the Gandhian concept of service that attaches a high value to personal involvement.  Monetary contribution, thus, becomes a sort of proxy for those who are unable to be active due to various reasons.  Our commitment to inviting all but compelling none has resulted in a warm and supportive relationship with the local community. There has been steady growth in IFA’s outreach in our home base and its impact in the field.   
In India IFA is now linked with numerous champions, organizations and movements that are attacking poverty in a  variety of ways. On the home front, IFA’s growth is evident in the steady increase in the funds raised and the number of volunteers added.  Archana, the annual fundraiser – embodying the ideal of broad community participation in a shared cause - has become a cherished local institution