Birth of USS
From flood relief to sustainable development
Unnayan Sahayak Sangstha (USS) was born with the aim of supporting the socio-economic development of poor and extremely poor people and helping them live with dignity. The organization was first initiated by a group of dedicated social workers from Moulvibazar who were living in Dhaka for professional reasons. At that time, they were also involved with the Moulvibazar District Association in Dhaka.
Moulvibazar district has historically faced repeated flood damage almost every year. The devastating flood of 1988 severely affected Moulvibazar, along with many other parts of the country. The Moulvibazar District Association immediately extended relief assistance to the flood-affected people. While participating in those post-flood relief activities, the initiators deeply realized that temporary relief could reduce immediate suffering, but it could not ensure long-term change in the lives of poor and vulnerable people.
From this realization, USS was established in 1988 with a commitment to sustainable development for the backward and disadvantaged people of society. The organization initially started its work for poor and extremely poor communities of Moulvibazar district, focusing on dignity, empowerment, and long-term socio-economic improvement instead of short-term assistance only.
In the beginning, USS continued its journey through the subscription of general members, donations from well-wishers, and support from different partner organizations. Over time, the organization gradually developed its own experience, capacity, field presence, and community trust through continuous work with disadvantaged people.