On Monday, 16th December, Asha had the privilege of welcoming dynamic Asha supporter from Australia, Dr Ranjit Rao. Accompanied by his wife Kanchana and two children Arjun and Samika along with his father-in-law Mr. D.R. Kaarthikeyan, Former Director, Central Bureau of Investigation, he visited Asha’s community centre in Dr. Ambedkar slum colony.
As the women, college students and young children from the community narrated the stories of their journey with Asha, the family was amazed to learn about all that has been achieved over the span of 25 years. They were particularly impressed to see how the community, especially women, have been empowered to not only participate in but also spearhead the developmental activities in their colony.
The college students were thrilled to learn how Ranjit had recently participated in the 23rd Hamilton Vitality Fun Run Half Marathon Event in November to raise funds for Asha’s Higher Education Programme. They were filled with immense gratitude as he narrated how the stories of the students’ success motivated him to run this race to the finish line. Mr Kaarthikeyan spoke warm words of encouragement to the college students and encouraged them to help others like them.
After the free-wheeling session at the resource centre they also visited some of the students in their homes. As the family picked their way through the narrow alleys of Dr. Ambedkar slum colony they noted how the community, with the efforts of the women’s group, works hard to maintain cleanliness and hygiene levels in an around their homes. They also couldn’t help noticing the joy and contentment that one often sees in Asha communities despite the seemingly insurmountable difficulties they face in their day-to-day life.
Asha would like to thank Mr. Rao and his family for their support and taking out the time to visit us and hopes that this relationship will only grow to benefit more and more slum dwellers in Delhi.
