We bring you a round-up of social welfare activities, from India and abroad, which are making a big impact.

1. NEW GYM EMPOWERS UNDER-RESOURCED WOMEN WITH DISABILITIES

A new gym dedicated to under-resourced women with disabilities has been launched by Chennai’s Better World Shelter. Built within the new premises of the organisation, the gym offers a safe, inclusive space for strength and self-care.

As women with disabilities from underprivileged backgrounds find it difficult to access sports training, they are often left with limited options in terms of career. Chennai’s Better World Shelter is changing that with the new gym wherein women with disabilities can train to be para-athletes and build a career in sports. As per a news report, the centre was established in 2016 by pediatrician and disability rights activist Dr Aiswarya Rao, the shelter operates under the Dorcas Research Centre for Education, Art and Culture, in collaboration with the Greater Chennai Corporation.

The new gym was launched with the support of the Tamil Nadu government. It offers free-of-cost training and disability-friendly equipment. Designed to promote physical and mental well-being, the gym is a powerful step toward equity in fitness, enabling women to reclaim their health, confidence and independence.

2.WAHL® DIRTY DOGS CONTEST 2025: TRANSFORMATIONS THAT SAVE LIVES

Wahl® USA has launched the 14th annual Dirty Dogs Contest in partnership with Greater Good Charities, a Seattle-based NGO, to spotlight the life-changing power of grooming for rescue dogs. Hundreds of shelters submitted before-and-after makeover photos, with three inspiring finalists— Gizmo, Mattie and Lenny Kravitz—selected for public voting. The winning dog’s shelter will receive a $10,000 grant, while second and third places earn $3,000 and $2,000 respectively, supporting ongoing adoption efforts.

Animal advocate Lee Asher has partnered with Wahl® once again, championing the role grooming plays in boosting a shelter dog’s confidence and chances of being adopted.