By cultivating the quality of human relationships, social ties, a sense of belonging, benevolence, concern, passion and altruistic love, we have a much greater chance of triumphing together.
MATTHIEU RICARD
THE ASSOCIATIONKaruna-Shechen
Founded in 2000 by Matthieu Ricard, secular and inspired by Buddhism, Karuna-Shechen acts and advocates to eradicate the causes of poverty with the conviction that benevolence is a key to building a more resilient society.
OUR MISSIONS
ACTION Karuna-Shechen contributes to break the cycle of intense poverty, strengthen the resilience and develop the full potential of poor, vulnerable or distressed populations. The organization mainly works in India and Nepal, through a local, community-driven and holistic approach interconnecting the sectors of Health and Hygiene, Education, Food Security, Economic Development and Environment.
ADVOCACY Karuna-Shechen invites everyone to develop their altruistic potential and work together towards a more altruistic, resilient and peaceful world. The organization invites us to cultivate our inspiration and provides training tools for the practice of meditation and mindfulness. It suggests ways to be part of change and get involved in a concrete way.
OUR VISION
Altruism is a necessity! It is one of the most concrete solutions to the challenges of the 21st century. Altruism is indeed not only the noblest state of mind of human beings, but the only concept that reconciles the demands of the short, medium and long term, to move towards an economy of solidarity, the wellbeing of citizens, and a much greater consideration for the fate of future generations, the environment, and the eight million species with which we share the biosphere.
MATTHIEU RICARD
THE VALUES THAT UNITE US
Personal practice
We are convinced of the importance of transforming ourselves individually and then contributing to changing the world. Karuna offers its members the tools and time to regularly practice active listening, mindfulness, and emotional intelligence.
Cooperation
Each of us contributes to the collective effort by cultivating the principles of horizontal governance, which require sharing authority, making authentic connections, and sustaining critical self-awareness. Treasuring our interdependence, we put ourselves at the service of others without neglecting our individual needs.
Ethics, joy and humility
Inspired by the universal, secular ethic of altruism in action and its founder Matthieu Ricard, we act with determination, joy and humility. We seek out projects in which we can work together and transcend individuality for a more altruistic world.
Effectiveness and impact
An altruistic vision is most meaningful when it is realized through concrete actions in the service of others. We pay particular attention to thinking rationally about the best ways to help others, to measuring, evaluating, and improving our impact, to acting innovatively and to carefully using the resources so generously entrusted to us.
I am humbled and delighted to take over from Érick Rinner as President of Karuna-Shechen, an organization that holds a special place in my heart. My sincere attachment dates back to 2007, when a first trip to Nepal and Tibet strengthened my conviction to get involved.
What touched me deeply went beyond the projects themselves: it was meeting the dedicated teams and the people who receive our support so gratefully. This openness of heart has strengthened my determination to serve this essential cause.
In this ever-changing world, alleviating the suffering of vulnerable people demands vigilance and benevolence. I pledge to provide our teams with all the support they need to meet the challenges ahead with serenity.
Together, let’s continue to embody these fundamental values: compassion in action, respect for human dignity and sustainable development. Our collective work remains more essential than ever in building a world where everyone can flourish.
CHARLES-MATHIEU BRUNELLE PRESIDENT
HEADING TOWARDS THE FUTURE
As you read this report, KarunaShechen is celebrating twenty-five years of service to the world’s poorest people. A quarter of a century of commitment, solidarity and benevolence, embodied by the members of the great Karuna family. We’ve come a long way: from a handful of patrons gathered around Matthieu in the early days, to a few volunteers supporting local teams, KarunaShechen is now a professional association, made up of over four hundred people.
We can be proud of what we’ve achieved so far, considering all that remains to be done. In addition to celebrating this special anniversary, the year 2025 will be an
opportunity to collectively reflect on the road ahead. Together, employees and volunteers will work on the course of our associative project to meet current and future challenges, while remaining faithful to what has driven us since the beginning. We need to unify our vision, our missions and our methods of intervention.
I hope this course will continue to constitute the beacon guiding our steps for many years to come. I have every confidence that, together, we can all move towards a future marked by benevolence and hope.
QUENTIN DURAND EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR
of altruism in action
Karuna-Shechen is celebrating 25 years of commitment, solidarity, and compassion. Beyond being just an organization, it is a collective movement carried by thousands of people motivated by altruism.
Karuna-Shechen is a human adventure uniting all those who are convinced of the power of altruism and cooperation: benefactors, volunteers, staff, partners, and the communities we serve. Together, we embody and act to build a more just and compassionate world. This anniversary is an opportunity to express our heartfelt thanks to all those who have made this beautiful initiative possible. Throughout the year, in 25 portraits, we will honor the work we accomplished, expressing our gratitude and illustrating who we are and what we achieve. We warmly invite you to be part of this celebration by continuing your engagement. Together, we can make a real difference.
2000
The entirety of the royalties from Matthieu Ricard’s first book enable the association to be founded. The first benefactors finance the construction of a clinic in India and one in Nepal.
2004
France’s first legal structure is created. Today, the organization brings together six branches that unite their motivations and coordinate their efforts.
2010
Complementing our programs in health and education, the first women’s empowerment project is launched, focusing on literacy and vocational training.
2014
A dedicated endowment fund is created to receive legacies and life insurance donations. In India, the organization is expanded to a new region: Jharkhand.
Let us joyfully and gratefully celebrate
all those who walk this path
with us – and, I hope, will continue to do so for a long time to come!
MATTHIEU RICARD
2015
Two devastating earthquakes strike Nepal. Emergency relief reaches 216,500 people, followed by a three-year plan for rehabilitation and long-term development.
2018
A key step toward professionalization: the association strengthens its governance with the election of a president and the appointment of a CEO. The organization’s headquarters is established in France.
2020
In response to the COVID-19 pandemic, an emergency aid plan delivers 10 tons of food and essential supplies to over 50,000 people.
2025
Karuna-Shechen celebrates 25 years of commitment, solidarity, and compassion. A new course is set to meet the challenges ahead, while remaining true to our founding inspiration.
WHAT COUNTED IN 2024
ACTION
474,000 people accompanied 393,300 indirect beneficiaries
218,500 villagers cultivated a nutritive garden
US $ 3.0M dedicated to our missions
7,870 animals cared for
69,150 patients listened to and cared for
11,840 young people supported in their schooling
HIGHLIGHTS
EXPLORING NEW INTERVENTION AREAS
A data collection effort is carried out in India, based on indicators such as the presence of educational and medical facilities, illiteracy rates, and unemployment levels. This evaluation will enable us to extend our intervention to new regions and develop the most relevant actions to combat poverty.
CONTEMPLATION PHOTO EXHIBITION
From April to August, 26 black-andwhite photographs by Matthieu Ricard are exhibited in Geneva at the cultural space “Quartier Libre SIGServices Industriels de Genève” at the Pont de la Machine. The exhibition panels, accompanied by inspiring quotes, invite visitors to cultivate altruism and marvel at the world.
SATTVA KNOWLEDGE INSTITUTE SUMMIT
Javed Miri, International Program Director, speaks at the annual Sattva Knowledge Institute Summit in New Delhi. Karuna-Shechen is ranked among the top 500 NGOs in India out of 100,000. This recognition is the result of 25 years of work rooted in the heart of communities and offers us the opportunity to continue improving our intervention methods, with the support of the consulting firm.
MARCH
THE “VOYAGEURS SOLIDAIRES” DOCUMENTARY
Karuna-Shechen and its founder Matthieu Ricard are at the heart of a special episode of the documentary series Les Voyageurs Solidaires, presented by Stéphane Basset and aired on Ushuaïa TV in December 2024. The program, filmed in Nepal, highlights the fundamental values of the association and its human history, through the humanitarian commitment of its founder.
ALTRUISTIC ENCOUNTERS
The third edition of the Altruistic Encounters brings together 27 speakers and more than 1,700 participants at the GoodPlanet Foundation. Round tables, meditations, workshops… this event encourages each and every one of us to draw collective inspiration and nurture our altruistic engagement at every level. (see page 35)
JUNE
EXTREME HEAT IN INDIA AND NEPAL
Successive waves of extreme heat trigger fires, droughts, and fatalities. In India, temperatures reach 50°C (122°F), a deadly threshold in dry environments. Karuna has long been involved with this issue, notably through constructing ponds and planting trees that create cooling zones and help mitigate the local impacts of climate change.
SEPTEMBER
THEORY OF CHANGE
Collaborative reflection workshops are conducted with all teams in India and Nepal to define our “theory of change” and rethink how programs are designed and implemented. The goal is to continuously improve our impact and align ever more closely with the needs of local communities.
JULY
RETURN OF THE PODCAST: A Summer with Matthieu Ricard
The second season of the podcast delves into themes such as commitment to a cause greater than ourselves, the many dimensions of altruism in our interpersonal relationships, and the outlines of a society grounded in altruistic principles.
AUGUST
BREASTFEEDING AWARENESS WEEK
In Kapilvastu, Nepal, Karuna-Shechen co-organizes an event with local authorities to raise awareness among mothers about the benefits of breastfeeding. The session includes information on the nutritional benefits of breast milk, appropriate breastfeeding techniques and the importance of exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months (see page 21).
OCTOBER
EMBODIED VALUES
Karuna continuously raises awareness among its teams about the use of emotional intelligence and mindfulness tools. In Nepal, the benefits are noted by our staff, who are often exposed to challenging situations in the field and now describe enhanced well-being, greater mental resilience, and emotional balance. Inperson or online, these sessions offer opportunities to practice guided meditation as well as breathing and stress management techniques.
NOVEMBER
SOURCES OF WATER AND COOLNESS
Rainwater retention ponds help replenish groundwater and ensure sustainable access to clean water. In the drought-stricken states of Bihar and Jharkhand, three ponds were dug in one month with the support of villagers. In all, twelve ponds were built in 2024 to guarantee better access to water.
DECEMBER
ELECTION OF A NEW PRESIDENT
Succeeding Érick Rinner, who served as Chairman of the Board of Karuna from 2022 to 2024, Charles-Mathieu Brunelle — board member since 2021 and longtime friend of Karuna in Canada — is elected as the new president of the organization.
Acting ON THE FIELD
For 25 years, Karuna-Shechen has been working to eradicate the causes of poverty and help the most vulnerable women, men, and children in India, Nepal, and Tibet realize their full potential.
In 2024, we collaborated with more than 474,000 individuals and cared for 7,870 animals, through a range of interconnected programs addressing the needs of communities in a holistic way: health and hygiene, education, food security, economic development, and environmental preservation. Our integrated approach has had a meaningful impact on the lives of over 867,300 people.
The families we support live in remote rural areas with little or no access to healthcare services, quality education, or economic opportunities. Our mission is to relieve suffering that undermines human dignity, while empowering individuals to become agents of their own development. As a non-political and non-religious organization, we assist children, women, and men to the best of our abilities, without any distinction of gender, religion, or caste.
Deeply convinced of the need to cultivate compassion and cooperation, our aim is also to foster a lasting culture of care — for oneself and for others.
In this way, Karuna-Shechen contributes to building a world where every moment and every decision becomes an opportunity to nurture altruism, paving the way for a more resilient society. Together, we walk the path toward a brighter future.
Intervention areas
EASTERN TIBET
Kham and Amdo in eastern Tibet are mountainous regions located mainly in China, but also in presentday Tibet. They are home to nomads with traditional ways of life, centered on pastoral herding and seasonal mobility, as well as sedentary, often impoverished populations living in isolated rural areas, who face limited access to infrastructure and services such as education and healthcare.
INDIA
NEPAL TIBET
Kapilvastu
Sindhuli
Bihar
Jharkhand
Darjeeling
Ruby Valley
CAPTION
ACTING ON THE FIELD
Our intervention strategy
To eradicate the causes of poverty, we believe in a model where each person is an agent of his or her own future. To achieve this, our strategy is to empower people by providing them with the essential resources to take care of themselves and others.
CARING AND LISTENING PEOPLE AT THE HEART OF SOLUTIONS
From the outset, we have been convinced that the people we work with are in the best position to express their needs, decide on solutions and implement them. This is why active listening is essential at every stage of our programs. People are understood and considered, which develops their desire to participate, reinforces their sense of responsibility and creates an environment conducive to solidarity and sharing.
REVEALING ALTRUISM ENCOURAGING CAREGIVING
Promoting altruistic behavior is an essential part of our intervention strategy. Everyone can participate in actions that collectively aim to counter the causes of poverty. People who are driven by a deep desire to take care of others, but who lack the capacity to do so, are supported and valued.
On a day-to-day basis, our local teams rely on the energy of 144 volunteers from the villages where we work, also known as “motivators”, who are true engines of change. They are role models for those around them and for future generations, embodying and inspiring benevolence in action.
COOPERATION MEETING CHALLENGES TOGETHER
Karuna-Shechen accomplishes nothing alone. Our impact is the result of the combined energies of the communities we support, the local authorities and our teams. Our role is to create this network of mutual aid and benevolence, conducive to listening, understanding and collaboration. A proven method that guarantees the best results.
As a facilitator, Karuna ensures that the balance between each party is maintained, that commitments are respected and that the necessary resources are provided: additional financial support, logistics, equipment, technical skills and training.
We also train communities in methods of governance, project monitoring and budget management. This includes the creation of “Councils for a Better Future”: a methodology that has been under study since 2023. These bodies are made up of pairs of men and women, who represent their village and manage the challenges together. They are thus the agents of their own future.
CASE STUDY
In Kapilvastu, Nepal, the Better Future Council has identified major challenges in mother and child health: neonatal and infant mortality, stunted growth, malnutrition and risky traditional practices.
A visit to all the households by the village representative pairs enabled them to gain a better understanding of the specific needs of pregnant and breast-feeding women. The council nominated two women from the villages who were motivated to carry out an awareness-raising project. Karuna-Shechen provided these women with training and the necessary educational content. These volunteers are now able to run awareness-raising sessions on their own. The beneficiaries of this program appreciate the proximity with the facilitators they know, which promotes a positive and lasting impact.
Those who work in the field
A LOCAL AND HUMAN APPROACH
Active in Asia since 2000, our teams are made up entirely of local professionals from the regions in which we operate.
Their knowledge of the territory coupled with their proximity to the population allows KarunaShechen to implement actions that respect local cultures, resources and know-how, which encourages the involvement and autonomy of the communities.
Our work is based on effective altruism through sound program design, rigorous measurement and evaluation of our impact and efficient use of resources.
In 2024, we were able to expand our project areas while adopting costeffective methods. As a result, we were able to reach more people with the same budget. To achieve this, we carried out a comprehensive needs assessment and adapted our actions to achieve even greater integration. Our programs work on several interdependent themes, and can be community-driven solutions. These advances are inspired by our vision of compassionate action, walking alongside communities to build a more resilient and hopeful future.
SUNITA SHARMA DIRECTOR OF KARUNA-SHECHEN NEPAL
TOWARDS COLLECTIVE FLOURISHING
In 2024, our teams have grown and new offices have been either relocated or established in newly identified intervention areas. These developments have brought the organization closer to the communities we serve, ensuring they feel valued and fully involved in the projects. With enhanced skills within the teams and facilities better suited to our operational needs, our actions have become more effective and responsive. At the same time, Karuna continues to work in close collaboration with local government officials through regular meetings and dialogue.
In terms of developing emotional intelligence tools internally, our teams in India and Nepal have integrated dedicated workshops into their work schedules. Whether in-person or online, Karuna employees cultivate benevolence and resilience through meditation, relaxation, sharing circles, and dyads. Together, they nurture mindfulness in order to act with discernment and care in their daily work, and to thrive within Karuna’s living, breathing ecosystem.
2 central offices
12 operating centers
221 local employees
144 volunteers from accompanied communitiess
Health and hygiene Saving lives and preserving health
In India and Nepal, we operate in regions where access to healthcare is limited by geographical isolation, inadequate infrastructure and lack of personnel.
We ensure the development of adapted interventions to save lives, alleviate suffering and preserve the health of the most vulnerable. Our clinics and health posts are open every day, without interruption, and offer diagnostic, general, specialized and alternative medical services. Our mobile clinics reach out to isolated populations. Prevention being the best medicine, our teams redouble their efforts to raise awareness of malnutrition, menstrual hygiene and parenthood. Veterinarians also travel to treat sick animals on the farms.
OUR METHOD OF INTERVENTION
Our health services are continually adapting to meet the needs of those we serve. For example, we are creating new infrastructure, investing in new treatment and diagnostic equipment and paying particular attention to the training of medical staff. We combine care with prevention, either in our health centers or by bringing equipment and skills to people in remote areas.
OUR PROGRAMS
General medicine Treating and caring for the whole family
Specialized medicine Responding to various pathologies
Natural medicine Complementing the benefits of conventional medicine
Mobile clinics Bringing care to remote areas
Diagnostics Using technology to find the origin of pathologies
Women and children Raising awareness and addressing their specific needs
Sanitation Raising awareness of hygiene and building toilets
Veterinary care Treating and remedying the suffering of animals
69,150 patients listened to and cared for
7,870 animals treated
9,774
women and girls educated about menstrual hygiene
463 toilets built
INDIA
RAISING AWARENESS, INFORMING, PROTECTING
In India, our healthcare services go beyond curative care: we actively promote prevention through regular awareness sessions and practical guidance.
Throughout the year, healthcare professionals conducted information sessions in villages, covering a range of essential topics: general medicine, reproductive and sexual health, mental wellbeing, hygiene, and maternal and child health. These sessions are paired with the distribution of essential supplies and access to medical consultations, responding directly to the needs of local populations while helping to break the stigma surrounding entrenched beliefs.
Some participants, by discussing with their families, help raise awareness within their communities. Despite societal taboos, this experience reveals the critical need to open dialogue around menstrual hygiene education. I feel immense fulfillment in contributing to the greater well-being of society.
ASIFA KHATUN HEALTH ADVISOR IN BODHGAYA
8,779 women and girls informed
NEPAL
SUPPORTING YOUNG WOMEN AND THEIR BABIES
Launched in 2023, the Congratulations! program aims to raise awareness and provide support to pregnant and breastfeeding women, as well as their families, in order to combat stigma and promote the health and well-being of mothers and their children.
In Nepal, many deliveries take place at home, often with risks related to hygiene and isolation. We facilitate prenatal consultations and safe deliveries in healthcare facilities. We provide mothers with health advice and breastfeeding guidance, coupled with the distribution of hygiene supplies and maternity-specific food. Families are encouraged to support women during pregnancy, particularly regarding the physical demands of daily tasks, and to reduce the risk of uterine prolapse, which sadly is a common condition in Nepal. Through this program, I’ve learned that breastfeeding has numerous benefits for both the baby and the mother, and that exclusive breastfeeding for the first six months is essential for my baby’s growth and immune system.
SUSHILA MOTHER OF A 2-YEAR-OLD GIRL
576 pregnant women congratulated and advised
Education Guaranty access to quality education for all
Education is a means of improving living conditions as well as a tool for the overall development of the individual. It is a key factor in promoting gender and social equality.
In our regions of operation, schools are underfunded, neglected, and sometimes nonexistent. We strengthen access to lifelong learning. Our early childhood programs bring joy, encourage cooperation, and promote healthy development. We support primary schools with infrastructure, materials and teacher training. We support young people, the adults of tomorrow, encouraging them to become more responsible and altruistic. Finally, we provide basic education to illiterate women, who have a higher dropout rate, to help them regain self-confidence and empower themselves.
OUR METHOD OF INTERVENTION
Our programs integrate respect and preservation of local culture and languages. Our approach emphasizes the creation of caring learning environments, and encourages the involvement of parents and the community to ensure the sustainability of projects. We pay particular attention to the needs of girls and to gender parity in each class.
OUR PROGRAMS
Early childhood development
Encouraging joy, cultivating values of cooperation and sharing
School support
Building, rehabilitating and providing materials
Adult literacy
Learning to read, count and other essential skills
Teacher training
Reinforce teaching methods
11,840 children and adolescents supported in their schooling
7,975 young children attended kindergarten
1,080 children practiced yoga
629 adult women taught to read and write
NEPAL BUILDING, RENOVATING AND EQUIPPING ELEMENTARY SCHOOLS
Isolated rural villages lack infrastructure. We build and rehabilitate schools with the voluntary participation of local residents.
In the Ruby Valley, after almost two years of work and refurbishment, the Kharsa School is now up and running, with the supply of furniture, insulation work and the creation of a playground. In Sindhuli, local residents generously contributed to the construction of a new school. In our other locations, we have equipped several schools with drinking water supplies, which they had not had since the 2015 earthquakes.
When I heard that a new school was being constructed in our community, I felt immense joy. We must focus on the future –our children. They deserve quality education and a bright future. Every day during the construction, I gave my best. The work was hard, but the children’s smiles made all the effort worthwhile.
GAU MAAN MAGAR VOLUNTEER MASON AND GRANDFATHER OF A SCHOOL PUPIL
2 schools built benefiting to 683 pupils
INDIA
ENCOURAGING THE PRESENCE OF FATHERS IN EDUCATION
In rural areas, it is common to consider mothers as the ones responsible for education. To encourage the equal participation of parents, Karuna raises awareness among fathers.
The shared involvement of both parents is essential to the healthy development of children. Through workshops based on theory, play and exchange, fathers learn how to provide for their children’s needs, give them good food, raise them with kindness and ensure their good hygiene. As a direct result of this project, the children of participating fathers have developed better school results.
Today’s session was highly instructive and provided us with valuable information about our children’s learning and wellbeing. Including us, fathers, in this initiative is a fantastic idea and will greatly benefit our children.
AJAY MALLAH FATHER OF A 4-YEAR-OLD BOY
accompanied parents
INDIA
GROWING A GARDEN FOR BETTER EATING AT SCHOOL
In kindergartens, we set up organic vegetable gardens that are both educational for children and a source of quality food for their healthy development.
The vegetable gardens, developed in line with the government’s child development plan, help improve children’s nutrition by providing fresh vegetables to balance their meals. Sustainable agriculture and collective responsibility are taught in the form of educational games, to stimulate their cognitive, social, emotional and physical development. Public-service educators are trained by the organization to facilitate this project.
This initiative has been greatly appreciated by both the centres and the parents. Thanks to the collaboration between our outreach and educational teams, thriving kitchen gardens are ensured and are used to prepare the mid-day meals for children.
SITA KUMARI EDUCATION COORDINATOR IN A KINDERGARTEN
33 kindergartens accommodating 1,255 children
NEPAL
HELPING FARMERS MOVE TOWARDS AGROECOLOGY
To address climate change, we promote sustainable agricultural practices that respect both health and the environment.
Agroecology training courses are organized for farmers to instruct them in pest management, biologic control and climate resilience practices. They are also provided with equipment such as organic pesticides and drip irrigation systems. These solutions are proven to preserve soil health and agricultural productivity, while promoting resilience and respecting the environment.
For many years, I struggled to protect my crops from natural disturbances and pest insects. My crops were frequently damaged, resulting in financial losses. Karuna provided me with material and technical support to improve the vegetable growing. This allowed me to protect my crops and improve production. It provides a more stable source of income for my family.
JITMAN SUNAR FARMER IN THE VILLAGE OF BIJAYANAGAR
1,762 farmers trained and equipped
ACTING ON THE FIELD
Economic Development Empowerment to be actors of change
People in rural and mountainous regions of India and Nepal lack job opportunities, training, and support.
In our regions of intervention, the majority of the population lives below the poverty line. Unemployment is very high, especially among women and young people. Our centers provide training to strengthen and develop skills in the production of handicrafts, agriculture, IT, entrepreneurship and innovative technologies. We also provide financial support for the creation of micro-enterprises.
OUR METHOD OF INTERVENTION
Empowerment programs support women in particular. By taking a more equal place in society, they have a positive impact on the education and health of their families and have better self-esteem and confidence. With increased opportunity, they break down gender barriers, overturn taboos and become sources of inspiration for other women and future generations.
OUR PROGRAMS
Micro-entrepreneurship Providing financial support for the creation of a business
Agriculture Training in responsible agronomy
Handicrafts Guaranteeing an income through the creative arts
Computer science Providing access to technical and practical knowledge
Sustainable technologies Training for tomorrow’s professions
712
young people in computer classes
705
financial grants for a micro-business
442
farmers trained in agricultural entrepreneurship
289 women trained in crafts
NEPAL
ENCOURAGING FARMERS’ AUTONOMY
Karuna-Shechen has launched a new beekeeping training program, aimed at strengthening the economic resilience of communities as a whole.
This art of keeping bees to produce honey, wax and other by-products “pollinates” economic development in a sustainable way, offering villagers new financial, ecological and food prospects. Participants are trained in all aspects of beekeeping: raising bees, building hives, harvesting honey. Equipment is provided. Beekeeping offers protection from the challenges facing traditional agriculture, such as climate change, pressure on biodiversity and market volatility.
Before this training, bee-keeping seemed an intimidating prospect, but the hands-on sessions and knowledgeable instructors broke it down in a very approachable way. I now feel confident embracing this sustainable income opportunity..
CHALI MAYA MAGAR WOMAN FARMER FROM SINDHULI REGION
17 farmers trained
INDIA
FOSTERING ENTREPRENEURIAL INDEPENDENCE
To overcome poverty and become self-sufficient, the men and women we support just need a little financial and technical help.
In isolated regions with high unemployment rates and few job opportunities, we provide financial, material and technical assistance to help entrepreneurs launch or maintain their businesses. Women are the main beneficiaries of this project, enabling them to challenge the patriarchal system still in place and become true agents of change.
Before the COVID lockdown, I ran a shop in a town far from home, but due to the pandemic, I had to close it down. When the situation improved, I realized that my village had no nearby shops. Karuna-Shechen gave me the support I needed to start a new shop in my village and, in the future, I plan to expand my business to a new area.
LASSANG TAMANG
WOMAN ENTREPRENEUR IN DARJEELING
705 women and men financially supported
Environment Promoting practices respectful of nature and life
The effects of climate change are already evident in our regions of intervention. Severe droughts and torrential rains follow one another, intensifying each year and having a greater impact on the most vulnerable populations, who have no means of adapting.
Each year, droughts reduce water reserves a little more, reducing agricultural yields throughout the year. The heavy monsoon rains that follow, combined with increasing deforestation and urbanization, cause landslides. Heat waves, highly polluted air and heavy plastic pollution negatively impact nature, animals and human beings and increase suffering. Our programs help local populations adapt and aim to reduce these harmful effects over time, through solutions at family or village level: waste management, reforestation, awareness-raising and collective ecological actions.
OUR METHOD OF INTERVENTION
Adaptation and cooperation are at the heart of our program strategies. We involve the beneficiary populations throughout the entire process of building the projects, which promotes empowerment and responsibility. We are committed to involving the younger generations, raising their awareness and helping them become responsible citizens. This essential approach aims to train and encourage tomorrow’s leaders to strive for a future in which nature and daily life coexist in harmony.
OUR PROGRAMS
Responsible practices
Raising awareness and taking action
Tree planting
Fighting global warming and preserving biodiversity
12,890 trees planted
9,700 people made aware of eco-responsible attitudes
INDIA
PLANTING TREES TO PRESERVE THE FUTURE
In 2024, India experienced the longest heatwave in its history, with temperatures reaching up to 50 degrees celsius (122 degrees fahrenheit) in the north of the country. To adapt to the growing challenges of climate change, community resilience is essential.
In India, we encourage the planting of trees along roadsides and in village communities to improve people’s well-being and create pleasant, shaded areas in both urban and rural environments. Awareness-raising and planting sessions for young people are carried out in partnership with schools
For many years, Karuna-Shechen has been developing a greening program in cooperation with families in villages, local schools and local authorities. We provide tree seedlings, tree protection solutions and maintenance advice. This initiative not only helps to conserve the environment and biodiversity, but also contributes to a positive transformation in the well-being of local residents.
ASHUTOSH KUMAR MEMBER OF AN ACTION COMMITTEE IN BIHAR
12,890 trees planted
REDUCING WASTE TO PRESERVE SOIL
In schools, teenagers are brought together in eco-clubs to learn about environmental protection. They become message-bearers and take action in their communities.
In Nepal, there are no waste management systems in remote rural areas. The population is not always aware of the interdependence between pollution, environmental degradation and climatic disasters. Karuna celebrates World Soil Day to raise awareness among young people of the need to reduce waste, sort and reuse. A competition is organized among schoolchildren, and workshops are held to rethink the future collectively.
I learned about the land I grew up on and the types of crops and fruit that grow there. I realized that without good soil conservation, natural disasters such as floods and landslides could occur, making human life extremely difficult. I now share my knowledge with the people in my village, including my parents, brothers and sisters.
SAGUN TAMANG GRADE 12 STUDENT AT KHANIYABAS
342 high-school
students
trained
NEPAL
TIBET
Since the beginning of Karuna-Shechen, we have been assisting the nomadic populations and the most destitute in Eastern Tibet.
The general situation in Tibet still presents many challenges for humanitarian organizations, especially for local teams. For this reason, we are voluntarily limiting our report on this region. Despite the difficulties, we support various social and environmental projects.
Making solidarity the norm, not the exception, means considering that every altruistic gesture contributes to building a fairer, more harmonious world, whether it’s sharing resources or reaching out to those in need.
MATTHIEU RICARD
Advocating FOR ALTRUISM
Karuna-Shechen invites everyone to develop their altruistic potential. Be inspired, Practice and Get Involved: this is the triptych proposed by the association to help us move towards a more compassionate, resilient and peaceful world.
Our era is confronted with the challenge of reconciling the search for wellbeing, the protection of living beings, the imperatives of the economy, social justice and the security of future generations. We are convinced that altruism offers the most concrete solutions to these challenges. It changes the way we look at things, and helps us to develop authentic relationships of sharing, support and care, which are considered to be the cornerstone of a fulfilled life.
The altruistic state of mind is a balance that can only be maintained if all three pillars are nurtured. We need to spend time cultivating each of them, because neglecting any one of them creates an imbalance that can expose us to the risk of non-action, empathic distress or loss of meaning.
Through events, qualitative content accessible on its website and an emotional intelligence program, Karuna offers the opportunity to cultivate inspiration, practice meditation and mindfulness, and proposes ways to take part in change and get involved in concrete ways, taking care of ourselves and others.
ADVOCATING FOR ALTRUISM
Be inspired, Practice, Get involved Make every moment an opportunity to cultivate altruism
Taking a new look at the world allows us to see the beauty that surrounds us and to draw inspiration from it to take care of ourselves and others. Reconnecting with our emotions and adopting new habits at our own pace is the key to commitment.
Inspiration lies in the ability to pay attention to what surrounds us, valuing both the beautiful and the ordinary. By shifting our gaze, we can choose to focus on benevolent acts, the beauty of nature, or artistic creations, which inspire us to work for good. By developing our emotional skills and practicing compassion, we learn to understand our emotions and cultivate altruism. Scientific studies show that these qualities can be reinforced, as in all learning. By nurturing our spirit, we nourish a lasting motivation for altruism. Commitment, in its various forms, enables us to transform our emotions into positive, concrete actions, thus contributing to a more caring world.
INTERVIEW TOWARDS OUR SHARED HUMANITY
Vincent Follet, social worker and Resilience program instructor (see page 36), shares his thoughts on cooperation, highlighting the importance of authenticity, vulnerability, mindfulness and individual commitment in building human bonds. His testimony can be found on the Karuna-Shechen YouTube channel (available with English subtitles).
Perseverance is joy in the form of effort, joy in the pursuit of virtue or beauty or something worth achieving.
MATTHIEU RICARD PODCAST A SUMMER WITH MATTHIEU RICARD SEASON 2
Discover Matthieu Ricard’s inspiring exchanges with several wise and committed contributors: Flore Vasseur, Christophe André, Magali Payen and Ilios Kotsou. The latest season of the podcast, released last August, is only available in French on the streaming platforms Spotify, Deezer, Youtube or Apple Podcast. Many of Matthieu’s other conversations with psychologists, neuroscientists and humanitarians are also available in English on these platforms.
Altruistic Encounters Cultivate commitment
Since 2021, Altruistic Encounters has been a committed event, punctuated by special moments where reflection mingles with action, ideas come to life and altruistic aspirations take shape.
The third edition of the Altruistic Encounters was held at the GoodPlanet Foundation on May 25 and 26, 2024, a weekend to cultivate our altruistic commitment on every scale. The first day celebrated the ties that bind us to those with whom we share our daily lives. The second day invited us to widen our view, reminding us that our benevolence extends to the whole living world, woven by the interdependence that links us all.
BE INSPIRED
During this free event, which was open to all, the public was able to attend inspiring discussions between various philosophers and social scientists such as Christophe André and Ilios Kotsou, who explored topics relevant to everyday life.
ROUND TABLE
PRACTICE
Several meditation sessions and mindfulness exercises offered participants moments of reconnection with themselves and others.
IMAGINE AN ALTRUISTIC SOCIETY
A stimulating discussion that explores the outlines of a society founded on the principles of altruism, and questions how we can help create a more compassionate and supportive world for generations to come. An interview between Matthieu Ricard, founder of Karuna-Shechen, Ilios Kotsou, PhD in psychology and Magali Payen, founder of On Est Prêt and Imagine 2050, to be found on the KarunaShechen Youtube channel (available with English subtitles).
GET INVOLVED
Small-group workshops encouraged participants to take action, and to leave with the motivation and desire to act together, starting with the smallest possible step.
The challenges to be overcome collectively are immense. It’s important to rethink mutual aid today.
MAGALI PAYEN
2 days | 27 speakers | 8 workshops
7 meditations | 4 round tables
1 screening | 1,700 visitors
CYCLE BASED ON CONTEMPLATIVE AND BEHAVIORAL SCIENCES
The aim of this program is twofold: to strike a balance for caregivers between taking care of themselves and taking care of others, but also to strengthen collective resilience by developing a culture of authenticity and mutual support.
Back to the body
Be present to yourself and your body to be present to others
Self-care
Self-compassion as the basis of commitment
Daring to say things
The courage to be honest with yourself and authentic with others
A workshop that I feel is necessary for all social workers. On the one hand, it gives us a safe space to focus on ourselves. On the other hand, we learn tools that we can put directly into practice. In the end, we feel supported by our employer, who recognizes the stressful nature of our jobs.
RED CROSS LUXEMBOURG SOCIAL WORKER
For a long time, I felt this sense of powerlessness in my professional environment. I felt I was being consumed by too much agitation. For me, overcoming the feeling of powerlessness meant accepting my vulnerability, analyzing my share of responsibility in the situation, and discerning what was my responsibility and what was not.
EDUCATOR FOR THE JUDICIAL YOUTH PROTECTION SERVICE
Find allies
Get inspired, trained and involved with the Talking Circle
Everyday action
Cultivate your power to act with creativity and joy
Connecting with our common humanity
Sharing our vulnerabilities to build trust
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
Our heartfelt thanks go to the Resilience program instructors, without whom nothing would be possible : Xavier Bertrand, Patricia Christin, Sylvie Deraime, Ophélie De Soto Cobet, Vincent Follet, Adrien Grunblatt, Cécile Mazourine, Isabelle Poitevin, Sat Prem, Marina Skandarski and AnneCécile Trillot.
We are fortunate to be supported by Fonds Nouveau Monde, an endowment fund whose mission is to facilitate access to mindfulness meditation. Thanks to Gabriel Pacheco, Mélissa Martinay and Elsa Delaunay for their support.
Finally, thanks to our partners including Chance, the Communauté de Saint-Quentin-en-Yvelines, the Luxembourg Red Cross and UNESCO for their confidence. AN EDUCATIONAL
JOY AND gratitude
The Karuna-Shechen projects are made possible by an understanding of the interdependence that unites people, benefactors, volunteers, partners, friends and the salaried team.
We aim to nurture and strengthen trusting, caring and lasting relationships with all members of this interdependent Karuna family. These links are based on shared values and mutual respect. Only together can we accomplish our missions and remain true to our shared vision.
Dear friends of Karuna, on behalf of the women, children and men we support, I’d like to say a huge thank you. I would like to express our infinite gratitude for your ever enthusiastic involvement, and your generous dedication to supporting us in helping to transform the world. Every day, we put ourselves at the service of our communities. We listen to them in order to best meet their needs, and we act with them, hand in hand, thanks to you, to preserve their ability to live in dignity. We move forward together, with humility and hope. Our collective movement in favor of altruism benefits from so much generosity and trust! We are deeply honored.
CATHERINE
LALIVE D’EPINAY
DIRECTOR
OF THE PHILANTHROPIST CIRCLE AND DIRECTOR OF KARUNA-SHECHEN SWITZERLAND
What a privilege it is to be surrounded by friends, each of whom supports us in his or her own way. Your generosity and energy are our strength and inspiration.
Every contribution, large or small, is one more step towards weaving a more altruistic world. Your solidarity is essential if we are to continue to carry out our missions and embody our vision. We thank you warmly for being with us.
US$ 50,000 AND MORE
Anonymous
Birgitta Amoroso (Sweden)
Fondation Emergences (Belgium)
Maryse Goeminne-Bernabe (Belgium)
Hershey Family Foundation (United States)
Huang Chen Mei Yu (Taiwan)
Fondation Inspir’ (Switzerland)
Madeleine and Jacques Maire (Switzerland)
Palais Des Thés (France)
US$ 20,000 TO US$ 49,999
Anonymous
8BP Fund hosted by Swiss Philanthropy Foundation (Switzerland)
American Himalayan Foundation (United States)
Yousef Aouad (United States)
Azure Wealth Switzerland SA (Switzerland)
George Family Foundation (United States)
Latika & Rajiv Jain Foundation (United States)
Association SER - Santé Éducation Recherche (Switzerland)
Tellus Viva Foundation (Switzerland)
US$ 5,000 TO US$ 19,999
Anonymous
Allary Editions (France)
Agro Sourcing Foundation (France)
Althémis Lyon (France)
Ersen Arseven (United States)
Aliette and Jérôme Balladur - Ayovie (Austria)
Marie Baudron (France)
Suzanne Boyer (Canada)
Alessia Bulgari (Italy)
Bruno Corre (France)
Marie-Christine Couderc (France)
CrossKnowledge (France)
Gaëtan and Viviane Flipo (France)
Cristina Funes-Noppen (Belgium)
Thomas and Mirjam Gerber Neidhart (Switzerland)
Anne Juri (Switzerland)
Michael & Alexandra Palko Foundation (United States)
Michèle and Bertrand Piccard (Switzerland)
Eric Ripert (United States)
Services Industriels de Genève - SIG (Switzerland)
We are deeply grateful for the unfailing support of our benefactors and volunteers. Thanks to you, we work every day to transform lives and create meaningful impact. The communities we serve have taught me a great deal: their resilience, wisdom and spirit of collaboration make my work a unique experience and a humbling and meaningful life lesson. I am honoured to be part of the Karuna family. I would like to thank you from the bottom of my heart for your confidence in our work. Your support inspires us to continue our commitment with benevolence and efficiency.
SAURAV ANAND PROGRAM MANAGER, BIHAR, INDIA
We express our special gratitude to our anonymous donors around the world, and to all our valued friends for their continued support: Alba Audit, Jérôme-Cécil Auffret, Gaspard Frydman, and Pierre-Alexandre Paul, Guillaume Allary, Laurence d’Aboville and Allary editions, Johannes Benz, Caroline Lesire, Ilios Kotsou and Emergences, François-Xavier Delmas, Mathias Minet, Frédéric Dieudonné and the whole team of Palais des Thés, Lucie, Corinne and the GoodPlanet Foundation team, Éditions La Martinière, Messales & Associés, the Loyco team, Fidurev, Fanchon Lavigne and Photoby, Carla and Jocelyne from CréaContacts, Patricia Christin, Delphine Oltramare, Pascal Pierrey, Myriam Magnon and Rencontres Perspectives, Inès and Sarah from Yo’time, Abdilah Taufiq from SIG.
We would also like to thank Cécile Detrain, Meriem Hani and Paul Saucé for their energy and the work they have done together, as well as Inès Harbaoui and Maëlly Salomon for their enthusiastic involvement.
Last but not least, a big thank you to all our dedicated volunteers, including Mélanie Aparicio, Héloïse Asselin, Léonore Battistella, Cécile Bigeon, Morgane Effroy, Jérémy Frère, Carole Gallo, Fleur Gimond, Élodie Palos, Sophie Picardat-Poupardin, Mathilde Pousset, Virginie Thomas, Wendy Wornham, Sally Warren and Betty Yamanjian.
HEARTFELT THOUGHTS FOR BENEFACTORS AND
FRIENDS WHO HAVE LEFT US.
We dedicate the beautiful achievements of 2024 to them: Krystyna and Ayimmakba Ajem.
FAITHFUL SUPPORT
Donating is an act of solidarity, an opportunity to participate in something bigger than our own lives, and to contribute at our own level to restoring people’s dignity. It’s a great personal benefit, a form of inclusion. In countries like India or Nepal, every euro has such a big impact and can make such a difference. I’m very happy to be part of Karuna’s long-term work. It’s wonderful!
DAPHNÉ M. MONTHLY DONOR
On behalf of all the Karuna-Shechen teams, we would like to express our deep gratitude for the dedicated and voluntary work of Érick Rinner and Michel Tardieu. Michel, for creating the French branch of KarunaShechen alongside Matthieu 20 years ago, and for serving on our Board of Directors and as Vice-Chairman for so many years. Érick, for these three years of committed presidency, for all the advice that has helped us grow, and for all the links created and nurtured, which continue to this day. You continue to inspire us, thank you both!
AT THE HEART OF THE ACTION
When Karuna-Shechen started working in our village, I was attracted by their holistic approach and the opportunity to be part of the change. As a volunteer relay, I identify people who can benefit from a project and guide them. I’m also in charge of health awareness campaigns and material distributions: sanitary towels for women, seeds and seedlings for families cultivating a vegetable garden. As a member of my village, I’m also in a position to mobilize people and encourage all those who want to act in solidarity. At the end of the day, I feel an immense joy to be part of an organization that strives to improve the quality of life of my village as a whole.
BALMIT LEPCHA VOLUNTEER IN INDIA SINCE
2023
EXTENDING A LIFETIME COMMITMENT WITH A BEQUEST
Bequeathing part of my estate has always been one of my most important projects, but it was essential to find an organization I could trust completely. With Karuna-Shechen, I have found an association whose commitment and transparency give me the assurance that my bequest will be used fairly and effectively, in line with my values. Today, I’m convinced I’ve made the best choice.
MARYSE P.
Thank
To each and every one of you for your invaluable support
you
Financial
SUMMARY
Every year, Karuna-Shechen benefits from the generosity of thousands of people and organizations around the world.
Karuna-Shechen’s global expenditure in 2024 amounted to US$ 3.8M, 79% of which was devoted to our programs to combat extreme poverty. Advocacy activity and the Resilience program represent 4% of our budget. To support our missions, operating costs amount to 17% of expenditure.
TRANSPARENCY AND IMPACT
Our actions are based on effective altruism through rational design, rigorous measurement and evaluation of our impact and efficient use of resources.
For more information on the funds raised and how they are used, please refer to our financial report, which can be consulted and downloaded by clicking on the QR-code below.
