GRAUS stands as a shining example of impactful transformation for marginalized and vulnerable communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT). Through an innovative, multi-sectoral strategy, the organization has positively influenced the lives of 87,259 beneficiaries, fostering sustainable development, economic empowerment, and comprehensive well-being.Through the dedication of our team, partners, and the resilient communities we serve, we have taken significant strides in addressing long-standing challenges.
As we look ahead, we embrace a renewed sense of purpose and determination. By fostering collaboration, empowering communities, and addressing core challenges, we are confident in building a brighter future.
See How
At GRAUS (Gram Unnayon Sangathon), we believe that sustainable development is deeply rooted in cultural heritage, community empowerment, and inclusivity. Our programs are designed to celebrate and preserve traditional arts while fostering local economic growth and social cohesion.
This image embodies our mission-bringing people together to celebrate traditions, preserve traditional knowledge, and strengthen local craftsmanship. By fostering such cultural exchanges, we ensure that development remains rooted in identity while embracing progress.
Through our eight flagship projects -Bandarban Agriculture and Nutrition Initiative (BANI), Community-based Resilience, Women’s Empowerment, and Action (CREA), Partnership for Resilient Livelihoods in the CHT Region (PRLC), Multipurpose Disaster Shelter Support (MPDS), Bandarban Sadar Area Program (BSAP), WASH in Fragile Context Project, ASTHA Project, and Leprosy Control & Rehabilitation Project-GRAUS has significantly expanded its reach, strengthened local capacities, and enhanced socio-economic resilience among marginalized communities.
With generous support from key donors such as USAID, the Embassy of Sweden, the European Union, World Vision, and the Swiss Embassy, and technical partnerships with esteemed organizations including Helen Keller International (HKI), CARE Bangladesh, Save the Children, The Leprosy Mission Bangladesh, and the Bangladesh Red Crescent Society, our interventions have been instrumental in tackling critical challenges related to food security, economic empowerment, climate resilience, and social cohesion.
By fostering sustainable development and community-led solutions, GRAUS remains committed to building a future where vulnerable populations thrive with dignity, resilience, and opportunity.
At GRAUS ( Gram Unnayon Sangathon), we believe that child sponsorship is more than financial support-it’s an investment in a child’s future, rooted in education, cultural identity, and holistic development.
Our programs encourage interactive learning, participation in storytelling, allowing children to thrive in an environment that respects their heritage.
GRAUS empowers children to break cycles of poverty, become future leaders, and drive sustainable development in their communities where progress is built on cultural roots and inclusivity.
Since our founding in 1998, GRAUS (Gram Unnayon Sangathon) has been dedicated to empowering poor and marginalized communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts (CHT) through inclusive, community-driven development. What began as a modest initiative has grown into a dynamic force for change, positively impacting the lives of over 87,000 individuals across the region. Our work spans critical areas such as Food Security, Maternal and Child Healthcare, Nutrition, Education, WASH, Climate Resilience, and the Empowerment of Women and Youth.
As we chart our path toward Vision 2030 and beyond, we aspire to reach 1 million vulnerable people, reduce poverty, and foster a future where every community thrives with dignity and opportunity. At the heart of our vision lies a commitment to climate change adaptation, environmental conservation, and locally led solutions that leave no one behind.
Looking ahead, we see GRAUS evolving into a model organization-one that leads with inclusivity, transparency, and innovation. With the strength of our dedicated team, youth-led leadership, and trusted partners, we are determined to build resilient, sustainable communities where every individual has access to economic opportunity and a healthy environment.
Together, let us shape a just, equitable future where hope, empowerment, and progress reach every corner of the Chittagong Hill Tracts.
In solidarity,
Executive Director, GRAUS
Together, we build resilience. Together, we drive change.Together, we shape a better tomorrow.
GRAUS Reflection
~ Speech Snapshot: Management & Program Personnel~
When we stay connected with the community
GRAUS works to uplift ethnic group and marginalized communities in the Chittagong Hill Tracts by promoting inclusive and sustainable development. Its efforts focus on multilingual education, climate-resilient agriculture, improved nutrition, and livelihood support. GRAUS also promotes gender equality, youth engagement, and access to health and WASH services, aiming to build resilient, self-reliant communities through participatory and rights-based approaches.
Strategic planning is the foundation of GRAUS’s work, shaping its direction and goals since its first plan in 2013. The 2025 -2030 Strategic Plan focuses on transforming lives in the Chittagong Hill Tracts by addressing poverty, hunger, health, hygiene, and nutrition. It expands education and vocational training, promotes basic human rights, climate action, and sustainable resource use, and supports climate-adaptive agriculture. The plan also emphasizes innovation, organizational strength, and inclusivity to foster sustainable, community-led development.
GRAUS has established a strong foundation in fund management and partnerships over the past 25 years, collaborating with international donors such as USAID, the EU, and UKAID to drive meaningful community development. Through strategic alliances with organizations like UNICEF, UNDP, CARE, Save the Children, and MJF, GRAUS has strengthened efforts in food security, health, education, and resilience-building. These partnerships have also advanced advocacy for basic human rights, gender equality, and social justice, fostering sustainable progress in the CHTs.
As part of its 25th anniversary milestone, GRAUS celebrates a year of transformative achievements. Our initiatives directly benefited 87,259 individuals, including vulnerable women, persons with disabilities, and ultra-poor households. These interventions have led to tangible improvements in agricultural productivity, market access, and women’s empowerment. Health and nutrition programs have enhanced maternal care and household nutrition, while disaster preparedness efforts have strengthened community resilience through shelter construction, volunteer training, and functional management committees.
About GRAUS
GRAUS (Gram Unnayon Sangathon), founded in 1998, envisions a society free from discrimination, hunger, and poverty. Dedicated to empowering marginalized communities, GRAUS fosters resilience and inclusivity through active participation in sustainable development. Registered with Bangladesh’s Ministry of Social Welfare and the Bureau of NGO Affairs, GRAUS is a proud member of IUCN and IIFB, reflecting its commitment to biodiversity conservation and climate solutions.
Developed by Aung Chano Marma, Advisor, GRAUS Contact: 01620827555
