CORD, as a voluntary Organisation committed to the cause of community development is basically an expression of concern for the weaker section of the community and a sensitive response to the social segregation, economic exploitation, cultural alienation and such of those oppressive dehumanisation processes suffered by the less endowed. Though it emerged with legal identity subsequent to its registration under Societies Registration Act, Karnataka (1960) in the year 1981, it was only the culmination of the long cherished dream of a visionary who had extensive experience in the sphere of community development. It was basically with the quest to ensure total development of the poor; especially the tribals in the Southern part of Karnataka State in India, CORD took the form of an Organisation.

Governed by a body of people committed to the cause of social justice and human welfare together with professional proficiency in community development, CORD has been contributing to the cause of the socially and economically deprived with its well-conceived vision and mission through experimental and experiential processes.

Duly accredited with registration under Foreign Contribution Regulation Act by the Ministry of Home Affairs of the Government of India together with provisions of exemption under Sections 12 A and 80 G of Income Tax Act of the Governments of Karnataka and India respectively; CORD today is known nationally and internationally for its value based approach to development.

CORD has its base at Kushalnagar of Somwarpet in Coorg District. Located at a distance of about 240 kms from Bangalore, the State capital it is well connected by road transport and is housed in its own infrastructure that has provisions such as space, vehicles, audio-visual equipment’s etc., for training, documentation, research and all forms of innovative approaches to community development. By and far, CORD’s strength vests on its personnel who are professionally qualified and endowed with every expertise.