Stories are everywhere nowadays. Our social media feeds are filled with people talking about their personal journeys, with some success stories, some stories of pain – but there’s never a dearth of them. It can be easy to get lost in this sea of stories, where sometimes people’s efforts go unnoticed. At Donatekart, we work closely with so many incredible people and NGOs who have dedicated their lives to the betterment of others – and their voices need to be heard.
Through #DonatekartSpotlight, we’ll focus on two causes every week to highlight their work, give you an in-depth look at their organisation, the people behind it and what makes it unique. These stories are all heart, and we can’t wait to share them with you.
Selvaraj and Sandip Parab’s stories are of selflessness and dedication. Both of them are uplifting and empowering people with disabilities and giving them a safe place to call home. Above all, they both believe that everyone deserves to be treated with equal love and respect.
Selvaraj – Founder of Synthika Trust
Selvaraj’s dedication towards helping underprivileged children shines bright every day. Synthika Trust was started in Trichy District, Tamil Nadu, as a way to give children with intellectual disabilities the chance at a better future, and today it has grown to be so much more – it’s a safe place where they’re not made to feel different or incapable, it’s a place they can call home.
“Many of these children come from single-parent households where their mother is the sole breadwinner of the family. Under these circumstances, it’s almost impossible for her to afford the child’s education. Here they’re given the right kind of support they need – from physiotherapy and speech therapy to healthy food and special education. All the children are given physical, psychological and emotional care and are equipped with life skills. They’re also given regular medical check-ups.”
Selaraj dreams of a day when all children play together, learn together and treat each other with respect. And he’s instilled the same in his children as well. Read more about Selavaraj’s inspiring journey here.
Sandip Parab – Founder of Jeevan Anand Sanstha
Sandip had a difficult childhood – even two square meals seemed like a luxury at times. His father was a labourer at a mill in his village. Hardship and poverty were the way of life. Finally, Sandip was 24 when he came to Mumbai looking for work. Alongside doing odd jobs like car washing etc, Sandip was actively involved in social work. It was during this time that Sandip decided to start Jeevan Anand Sansthan, which has given thousands of people a second chance – some were abandoned, while others were too poor to afford food – some were physically disabled while others had severe mental health conditions. With multiple branches across Maharashtra, Jeevan Anand Sanstha became a safe home for all.
“We don’t differentiate between caste and religion – we only want to give these homeless and abandoned souls a comfortable place to live. We look after their dietary needs, and medicinal needs and also provide counselling services to those who need it..”
Sandip is determined to continue serving those in need. Read more about his incredible work here.
You can support more superhumans like Selvaraj and Sandip here on Donatekart. If you’ve come across any other NGOs or individuals whose stories have inspired you, please feel free to reach out to us at info@donatekart.com.
