From RCDS to RCDP
Rural Community Development Program
The Rural Community Development Program (RCDP) traces its origins to the establishment of the Rural Community Development Society (RCDS), a non-profit organization founded in 1995 under the Societies Registration Act, XXI of 1860.
RCDS was initiated by a group of young university graduates, social scientists, philanthropists, and professionals from various fields, all with extensive experience in working with NGOs both within and outside Pakistan. Under the leadership of Mr. Muhammad Murtaza, these visionaries aimed to create an institution dedicated to grassroots development and social welfare. They began their journey in District Nankana Sahib, formally registering the organization under the name RCDS.
Initially launched its social sector programs
RCDS initially launched its social sector programs, including a microcredit initiative in 1998, designed to stimulate economic activities within communities with a particular focus on women’s participation. In April 2001, RCDS partnered with the Pakistan Poverty Alleviation Fund (PPAF) to extend its integrated development services across Punjab.
During this period, the organization placed strong emphasis on institutional development and sustainability, ensuring its capacity to serve communities over the long term. Through its partnership with PPAF, RCDS gradually developed operational manuals, methodologies, and a comprehensive framework to deliver both financial and non-financial services to impoverished communities, especially in rural areas. As a partner organization of PPAF, RCDS demonstrated its capability and expertise in using an integrated approach to development, always adapting to changes to meet future demands.
RCDS has formed partnerships with numerous international and national donors
Throughout its history, RCDS has formed partnerships with numerous international and national donors, including the Food and Agriculture Organization (FAO), United Nations Development Programme (UNDP), United States Agency for International Development (USAID), Agribusiness Support Fund (ASF), The Asia Foundation, Plan International, Embassy of Japan, Unilever International, Engro Foundation, and other national donors in Pakistan. These collaborations have solidified RCDS’s reputation as a multifaceted rural development organization.
Maintaining Commitment
Recognizing the need to extend its services to underserved urban populations, RCDS expanded its reach to poor households in urban areas, maintaining its commitment to empowering marginalized communities, especially women. This expansion involved initiatives in social mobilization, the establishment of non-formal schools, and the extension of microfinance services to support slum dwellers in engaging in informal income-generating activities.
Implemented a wide range of integrated programs
RCDS has successfully implemented a wide range of integrated programs that address various development challenges. These include social mobilization, health services focusing on quality antenatal and postnatal care, safe deliveries at basic health centers, livelihood enhancement and protection, employment and enterprise development, community physical infrastructure, farmer enterprise development, agribusiness projects, emergency response and early recovery initiatives in flood-affected areas, youth development programs, vocational skills development, non-formal education, widow empowerment, and entrepreneurial development programs.
Through these initiatives, RCDS has demonstrated its unwavering commitment to improving the lives of marginalized communities in both rural and urban settings, empowering women, enhancing livelihoods, and fostering sustainable development at the grassroots level.