The Beginning
The Association for Underprivileged People (AUP) was founded in 1998 in response to the devastating flood that affected thousands of families in Bangladesh. Seeing the immense suffering of marginalized communities, a group of socially conscious individuals came together with a shared vision of uplifting the lives of those in need. From humble beginnings as a small grassroots initiative, AUP has grown into a nationwide organization committed to sustainable socio-economic development.
Our Journey
Over the past two decades, AUP has expanded its programs to address key challenges faced by underprivileged communities. Initially focusing on emergency relief efforts, the organization soon realized that long-term solutions were needed to break the cycle of poverty. Thus, AUP began implementing programs in education, skill development, microfinance, housing, water & sanitation, and social rights awareness.
Key Milestones in Our Journey Include
- 2002: Establishment of AUP Model Schools to provide quality education to children from low-income families.
- 2005: Introduction of Microfinance Programs to support small entrepreneurs and promote self-reliance.
- 2010: Launch of the ENRICH Program in partnership with PKSF, focusing on holistic community development.
- 2015: Expansion of Housing Loan Programs, providing affordable housing solutions for the homeless.
- 2020: Strengthening our Water & Sanitation initiatives to improve health and hygiene in rural areas.
Commitment to Change
AUP operates with the belief that true change happens when communities are empowered to take charge of their development.
Our Approach Emphasizes
- Community Participation: We involve local people in the planning and execution of programs to ensure sustainability.
- Capacity Building: We provide training and technical support to help individuals become self-sufficient.
- Innovative Solutions: We continuously explore new methods to address the evolving challenges of poverty and inequality.
Impact and Growth
Since its inception, AUP has positively impacted the lives of over 500,000 individuals across multiple districts in Bangladesh. We take pride in our role as a catalyst for change, creating opportunities for education, economic stability, and better living conditions. With a strong foundation built on dedication and integrity, AUP continues to move forward, reaching more communities and transforming lives. Our journey is far from over, and we invite you to be a part of our mission to build a more just and equitable society.
Looking Ahead
The future of AUP is filled with promise as we scale our impact and strengthen our programs. Our focus remains on expanding educational opportunities, enhancing livelihood programs, and promoting sustainable development. We envision a future where every individual, regardless of their background, has access to the resources and support they need to thrive. Together, we can create a world where poverty is a thing of the past, and every person has the opportunity to live with dignity and hope.