As a small, locally based organization IFA support is contingent upon the following:
1. A proposal must be sponsored/adapted by one of our members before any evaluation can take place. A member is any one who is connected to IFA and supports its work by participation in any number of ways.
2. The sponsor must either become a ‘sewak (director)’ of the organization or must impress upon one of the existing ‘sewaks’ to adopt the proposal.
3. Becoming a ‘sewak’ is quick and simple. If the person is willing to make the required commitment, the induction is instantaneous. There is no limit to the number of ‘sewaks’.
4. IFA supports a variety of activities in accordance with our charter, but the most desirable aspects are:
a. Transformative work that leads to long term, sustainable betterment of people’s lives
b. Leveraging, so that the benefits accrued are many times more than the funds provided. This typically occurs when Fellows are able to ensure proper implementation of Government welfare schemes
c. Work that leads to systemic change in the conditions that help mitigate poverty and backwardness
d. Work that empowers communities rather than merely individuals
Baring rare exceptions, IFA does not provide direct services such as food, clothing, shelter, etc. We may support activities that ensure mechanisms for provision of such services by the responsible institutions such as the State or community organizations.
5. Being an entirely voluntary organization with limited funding and meager human resources for monitoring compliance, we reserve the right to limit our support at any point.
6. Due to the same reasons, IFA selects organizations/activities/individuals that have a proven track record or are recommended by recognized leaders in the specific area of work.