ASCS was founded in 1989 for the upliftment of poor communities by Lavkush Vishwakarma. Strongly influenced by the principles of Mahatma Gandhi, who believed in equality and justice, Vishwakarma was initially inspired by the works of Baba Raghav Das Shikshan Evam Sewa Ashram, Barhaj, in Deoria district, and also two of his freedom fighter friends. He believed that social change could only be possible with the change in the lives of poor and marginalised people.

During the initiation of ASCS, the founders envisaged that mobilisation of the poor and socially disadvantaged people could enable them to gain access, influence decisions and use available resources effectively to improve their status. were envisaged during the initiation of ASCS. And thus began a process of development where people would have access to better health, education, livelihood, etc., and where they would live in a harmonious way.

Ever since its establishment, ASCS is continuously working to eradicate poverty through collective efforts of funders, beneficiaries, partners, NGO functionaries and all direct and indirect stakeholders and dedicated team of employees. ASCS has been very active in implementing its activities towards empowering the poor and the marginalised section of the community.

Rural development is mainstay of ASCS, though it has off and on also worked in urban areas, particularly on governance issue. The activities covering strengthening of panchayati raj, formation of women groups and their empowerment, literacy programmes for women and children, advocacy, livelihood and environment, disaster management, gender, social harmony, sanitation, health care, income generation programmes, revolving fund, etc.

Of late ASCS is focusing on rural development issues like sustainable livelihood, promotion of employment through skill building, women empowerment by forming federations and ensuring community participation in promoting local self-governance and protection and preservation of environment. The key issue before ASCS is building self-reliance in the community through a process of sustainable development.