About Us

Karuna-Shechen was founded in 2000 by Matthieu Ricard to help empower under-served communities in India, Nepal, and Tibet to reach their full potential and create a better future.

Each year, over 270,000 people benefit from our projects in northern India, Nepal, and eastern Tibet

OUR VISION

Rooted in the ideal of “compassion in action,” we serve others with joy and determination by cultivating altruism in our hearts and actions.

We strive to reduce suffering in the Himalayan region and work toward a fairer and more compassionate world. We believe that communities can be lifted out of poverty, that change is possible, and that the well-being of every individual, regardless of race, gender, class, or caste, is essential.

OUR WORK

We provide vulnerable and disadvantaged populations access to health care, education and vocational training, clean water, solar electricity, and other sustainable solutions. Our programs are interconnected, working together to provide short-term support that fosters long-term change.

OUR STRATEGY

We believe that building on local strengths and knowledge is the most efficient way to respond to the specific needs and aspirations of our beneficiaries. Our comprehensive development strategy is based on active community participation, women’s empowerment, and the preservation of local resources and culture.

We implement our strategy by working with a network of grassroots organizations and partners, as well as local teams of experienced professionals.

Did you know?

Karuna-Shechen’s name expresses its mission while paying homage to its roots:
‘Karuna’ means compassion in Sanskrit
and ‘Shechen’ is the name of a major monastery in Tibet.