The foundation's general objective is to give financial support and advice to organisations that show initiative aimed at removing or mitigating local socio-economic imbalances, improving health care and counteracting environmental pollution. Shepherd aid is directed at self-reliance and autonomy of the supported organisations.

The supported organisations mainly work woth aid from the local authorities and large funding organisations. Funds which are collected through donors in the Netherlands are primarily used for financing costs that are usually nog covered bij projects. One could think of administrative expenses, training and salary for the staff. Bearing the cost of these overheads is crucial for the functioning of the organsation and the eventual self-reliance.

Furthermore Shepherd helps contacting other organisations for the funding of projects and programmes. Letters of recommendation are written and projects in favour of greater self-reliance can be initiated.

Volunteers contributing to our activities are welcome, both in the Netherlands and in India. Several Dutch volunteers visited Shepherd India and Preed. Besides, Shepherd invited someone from India a few times, who then had the opportunity to gain experience, make contacts, take a course and give information and advice to various groups of interested people.

Shepherd gives information and lectures on request. For supporters Shepherd disperses a two-yearly newsletter in Dutch dealing with the latest developments of the projects in India.