About us
Rooted in social ministry, ARUWYE is committed to compassionate service that drives meaningful social change and empowerment.
About
A Movement of Hope, Service, and Transformation
ARUWYE, the Social Development Office of the Province of St. Thomas the Apostle, Chennai, was established in 2012 by the Salesian Sisters to coordinate and strengthen the developmental initiatives of the Province. ARUWYE embodies the Salesian mission of reaching out with compassion and a preventive approach, especially towards the most vulnerable and marginalized sections of society.
As a dedicated social development initiative of the Salesian Sisters, ARUWYE works to transform lives by supporting youth at risk and women from working-class and underprivileged backgrounds. The organization implements a wide range of programmes through its institutions such as Oratories, Youth Centers, formal and non-formal Schools, Professional Training Institutes, Shelter Homes and other educational and skill development initiatives. These programmes are designed to ensure holistic development by nurturing academic excellence, vocational skills, moral values, emotional well-being and leadership qualities among beneficiaries.
Operating across nine districts in Tamil Nadu, ARUWYE has grown into a vibrant non-profit organization that reaches communities with purpose, commitment, and compassion. It is not just an institution but a movement that sparks transformation in the lives of underprivileged children, youth, and women. Through its consistent efforts in education, empowerment, and capacity building, ARUWYE enables individuals to overcome social and economic barriers and build sustainable and dignified livelihoods.
Guided by a vision of equality, dignity and social justice, ARUWYE continues to inspire change and nurture human potential. Upholding the Salesian spirit of accompaniment and creating a family-like environment, the organization empowers individuals to live with hope, confidence, and self-reliance. Through its dedicated service, ARUWYE contributes to building an inclusive society where every person is given the opportunity to grow, thrive, and lead a life of dignity.
9
Districts in Tamil Nadu
44
Evening Study Centers
- Partnerships for impact
- Growth opportunities
- Financial aid & training
Objectives
Our Vision
ARUWYE works to empower marginalized women, children, and youth by promoting their rights, supporting livelihoods, and engaging with state institutions through networking, lobbying, and advocacy
Our Mission
ARUWYE envisages a just, harmonious and eco-friendly society where the integral and sustainable development of the marginalized is ensured
History
Since 1998, the Province Office of St. Thomas the Apostle – Chennai coordinates development initiatives. Auxilium ARUWYE empowers women and youth at risk through education and training.
The Office of the Province of St. Thomas the Apostle – Chennai was established in 1998 to coordinate and strengthen the developmental initiatives of the Province.
Auxilium ARUWYE, the Salesian Sisters’ Social Development Organization, serves as a catalyst for social change, committed to the upliftment of women and youth at risk. Through oratories, youth centers, schools (formal and non-formal), vocational institutes, shelter homes, and other educational and training initiatives, ARUWYE continues to empower marginalized communities and foster holistic growth.
Services Offered
- Women/men Self Help Groups
- Coaching Centre for Continued Education
- Community College
- Evening Coaching
- Parish Ministry
- Village ministry
- Sunday Oratory
- Reach and program for the Refugees
- Hostel for Teachers
- Hostel for Students and working women
- Hostel for Tailoring Girls
- Home for Girls
- Home for Boys
- Home for street children
- Shelter Home
- Vocational Training center
- Non-formal Educational center
- Assistance to women and young at risk
- Computer Centers
- Tailoring Centers
- Typing Centers
- Secretarial Courses
- Dispensaries
- Leprosarium
Provincial Message
I am deeply impressed by the remarkable progress of ARUWYE and the impactful initiatives carried out during 2023–2024, which continue to build a strong foundation for the well-being of children, youth, and women. My sincere appreciation goes to the dedicated staff, collaborators, and supporters whose tireless efforts have made this journey meaningful and successful. I extend special gratitude to Sr. Alphonse J. Isabella for her committed leadership and selfless service in transforming lives.
As ARUWYE moves forward, I pray that it continues to stand as a beacon of hope for the marginalized, firmly rooted in the vision of St. Don Bosco and St. Maria Domenica Mazzarello. May Mary, Help of Christians, guide and bless its mission to uplift, empower, and lead many toward a life of dignity and fulfillment.
President's Message
I am deeply impressed by the remarkable progress of ARUWYE and the impactful initiatives carried out during 2023–2024, which continue to build a strong foundation for the well-being of children, youth, and women. My sincere appreciation goes to the dedicated staff, collaborators, and supporters whose tireless efforts have made this journey meaningful and successful. I extend special gratitude to Sr. Alphonse J. Isabella for her committed leadership and selfless service in transforming lives.
As ARUWYE moves forward, I pray that it continues to stand as a beacon of hope for the marginalized, firmly rooted in the vision of St. Don Bosco and St. Maria Domenica Mazzarello. May Mary, Help of Christians, guide and bless its mission to uplift, empower, and lead many toward a life of dignity and fulfillment.
Director Message
As I reflect on another remarkable chapter in ARUWYE’s journey, I am filled with a deep sense of gratitude—to the Almighty and to each and every person in ARUWYE who made this year possible. The phrase that comes to mind and truly resonates with me is: “Rooted in Hope, Rising Together.” This year tested our resolve in many ways, yet it also revealed the extraordinary power of what becomes possible when passion meets purpose—and when people come together in service of a shared mission.
At the heart of every milestone we’ve achieved is a dynamic and dedicated team—our management, staff, spirited volunteers, and tireless interns. Each one brought not only their skills, but also their hearts to the work, breathing life into our mission and translating vision into tangible impact across communities. Whether it was standing alongside vulnerable women launching microenterprises or learning a new trade, creating safe environments and empowering children through Children’s Parliaments, or guiding youth toward dignified livelihoods—we did not walk alone. We walked as one. Our growth this year has also been anchored in a spirit of co-creation—with communities, partners, and supporters journeying alongside us. Together, we have nurtured hope and fostered a model of development that is inclusive, sustainable, and deeply rooted in dignity.
As we look ahead, I carry great faith in what the future holds. The road may be complex, but with unity of purpose and the power of collective action, we will continue to dream—dream boldly.
“A dream you dream alone is only a dream. A dream you dream together is reality.”
— Yoko Ono
To everyone who has walked with us: thank you. Your spirit defines the soul of ARUWYE.
With Deep Sense of Appreciation
Sr. Mary Josephine Isabella
Director
Value and Principles
Professionalism in work
Transparency & Accountability
Compassionate Leadership
Teamwork
Creative & Innovation
