Ananda Bharati

Background
For the 25-odd girls who come to Ananda Bharati for their education, school is not a dreaded word. The role of a student is something of a God’s gift for them, especially as most of them are yet to enter their teens, but are already breadwinners for their families.

Set up in 1989 by Janaki Iyer, Andanda started out small with just five to six girl students, all from a slum area near Tarnaka. Friends and well-wishers of the Iyer couple supported the organization initially, and in 1991, Child Relief and You (CRY) extended its hand.

Activities
Once the students have been given a thorough grounding in basic education, those interested are encouraged to give the seventh standard public examination. Some of the students are also admitted to residential schools run by the Social Welfare Department and other government schools.

Anand Bharati's support does not stop there, though. Career guidance and academic help are constantly provided to those who need it. Some of the earliest students of Ananda Bharati are now all set to complete their graduation and will soon look out for a career.

The academic curriculum at Ananda Bharati is modeled such that the thrust is more towards the all-round development of the individual. While Telugu is the medium of instruction, English and Hindi are also taught. Teachers at the organization are also in constant touch with the parents of these students and make regular visits to their homes.

Vocational courses such as stitching, knitting and embroidery are also part of school life here.

Volunteering Opportunities
Those interested can sponsor field visits for the students by donating a one-time amount of Rs. 3000. You can even make monetary contributions to their corpus fund. The money is invested in fixed deposits, and the interest is used to run the school.

Experts in the field of education are also welcome to share their skills with the teachers.