Strong families.
Secure children.
Sustainable societies.
An international non-governmental organization based in Chennai, India, in Special Consultative Status with the United Nations Economic and Social Council (ECOSOC). Since 1986, SERFAC has worked through research, training and direct service to strengthen the family as the foundation of human development.
The family is the first school of life.
It is where children first learn trust, values and belonging — and where society’s well-being begins.
When families are strong, communities thrive.
When families break down, children, women and society pay the price.
Founded in Chennai in November 1986 in response to a call from an international family conference held in Madras, SERFAC began as an Asian centre for family studies. Today it serves as a global research centre on family and child policy — bringing together practical service among families in India with research, advocacy and dialogue at the international level.
Our storyResearch, training and direct service — for every family.
Six areas of work that connect families in Chennai with policy dialogue at the United Nations.
Research
Independent studies on family well-being, child development and social trends.
Learn more 02Professional Training
Courses and workshops for parents, teachers, counsellors and caregivers.
Learn more 03Family-Centred Practice
SERFAC’s own approach, built on the family life cycle and Erikson’s model of human development.
Learn more 04Women’s Empowerment & Livelihoods
Skills training that helps women and families move from consumers to contributors.
Learn more 05Child Protection & Care
Counselling, rehabilitation, school programmes and a children’s library.
Learn more 06Advocacy at the United Nations
Statements to UN Commissions calling for recognition of the family’s role in development.
Learn moreA world where every child grows up in a loving, stable family, and where the family is recognized and supported as the heart of humanity and a key partner in sustainable development.
- 1To promote awareness that healthy family life and marriage are society’s most important resource for the well-being of its members, especially children
- 2To uphold the dignity and value of human life at every stage
- 3To research the causes of family breakdown and develop practical, family-centred responses
- 4To build societies founded on justice, integrity, equality and mutual respect between men and women
- 5To advocate for family-friendly policies at national and international levels
From Chennai to the United Nations.
UN ECOSOC
Special Consultative Status since 1998
UN Global Compact
Member of the UN Global Compact Network
International Board
An International Advisory Board of academics and professionals from around the world
Global Conferences
Including the 2011 conference “In Defence of the Family: Family, Children and Culture” in Bangkok, marking SERFAC’s 25th anniversary
Every strong family begins with someone who cares.
Volunteer, partner, donate or simply spread the word — and help build a world where every child grows up in a loving, stable family.