Guided by this vision, ACDSSS was established under the leadership of Rev. Fr. Ivan OFM Cap, Rev. Fr. Joe Vadakekkara, and Rev. Fr. Thomas K.C. The organization was formally registered as a Social Service Society in 1993.

From 1994 onwards, under the leadership of Most Rev. Dr. Cecil DeSa and Rev. Fr. Varghese Kunnath, the then President and Secretary respectively, ACDSSS initiated organized and systematic social work. The Society began its interventions with adult education and community health education in selected villages of Agra district. U.K.S.V.K. played a significant role in expanding social work initiatives across the districts of Agra, Mathura, Firozabad, and Etah. During this phase, a dedicated group of Fatima Sisters joined the organization, strengthening its grassroots presence and outreach.

Based in Agra, ACDSSS steadily made inroads into the lives of marginalized and broken communities who had long endured exploitation and discrimination. Dalits and women, in particular, resonated strongly with the vision and mission of the Society. Over time, the seeds of social transformation began to bear visible results.

In July 2002, Rev. Fr. Alwyn Pinto (MSW) assumed charge as the Director of ACDSSS and played a crucial role in establishing organizational systems and strengthening institutional processes. Gradually, the organization expanded its presence into the fertile yet underserved regions of Mathura, Etah, Kasganj, and Firozabad districts, adopting villages for integrated and holistic development.

Since 1998, the formation and strengthening of people’s organizations became the major thrust of ACDSSS. The focus shifted towards building “social capital” and enhancing people’s participation in development initiatives. The principles of social animation guided the formation of groups, and through continuous capacity-building efforts, the organization succeeded in mobilizing and collaborating with a wider section of the community.

In July 2008, Rev. Fr. Vinoy P.M. (MSW) joined ACDSSS and became the Director in July 2009. Under his leadership, the Society continued its developmental work among the poor and marginalized. During this period, ACDSSS increasingly embraced the role of a co-worker and companion rather than a service provider. The guiding principle of “people first” was consistently upheld in planning, implementation, monitoring, and evaluation. The organization stood by the people at all times—day or night, across seasons and circumstances—making itself available according to their needs and convenience.

In July 2017, following the transfer of Rev. Fr. Vinoy P.M., Rev. Fr. Shibu Kuriakose took charge as Director and carried forward the mission of enhancing the quality of life of the people. In July 2023, Rev. Fr. Varghese K. assumed leadership as Director and faithfully continued the noble tasks of the Society until August 2025.

In August 2025, Rev. Fr. Anthony Maria Jude was entrusted with the responsibility of leading ACDSSS as its Director. Under his guidance, and with the dedicated support of his able staff, the organization continues to keep the flame of social transformation alive—working tirelessly to build a more just, inclusive, and dignified society and to ensure a better quality of life for all.