headstreams is a non-governmental development organisation promoting self-reliance and facilitating development of the economically and socially deprived people through community organisation, action and support services. Under its initiative titled ‘Aalamba’ meaning ‘help and support’ headstreams has undertaken social development activities both in urban (Bangalore) and rural (Bagalkot District) Karnataka. Aalamba’s focus has been on initiatives for livelihood and psycho-social development, particularly among youth from various marginalised backgrounds. The challenges in reaching out to young women in the livelihood development work, led headstreams to organise women’s Self Help Groups (SHGs) within the community. Our journey of partnership with the community has now evolved to include children with an increasing focus on their education, positive mental health and holistic development. headstreams has also initiated a program for young students in Development Journalism and volunteering.