NGO Day: Mumbaikars share inspiring words for those wanting to make a difference

Build good humansChildren write notes of gratitude Pic CourtesydhaiaksharngoAs someone working towards educating underprivileged children itrsquos even more important to mould them into good people It is why we emphasise community integration respect and gender sensitisation through activities Those seeking to work for children as a social cause should be clear about their motive Making better individuals for tomorrowNyla Masood founder Dhai Akshar Educational Trust VersovaLog on to dhaiaksharorgInclusivity comes firstWomen practise selfdefence Pic CourtesyaksharacentreindiaRegardless of which field of work you focus on keep a stronghold on principles particularly on inclusivity across initiatives that you may begin Grow your social network for a support system and be open to individuals across identities mdash gender economic status sexuality disability amongst others Including different people gives weight to your cause and offers varied perspectives and skillsUrmila Salunkhe programme lead Youth Actions and Fellowship Akshara Centre DadarLog on to aksharacentreindiaSmall steps matterChildren enjoy a game of football Pic CourtesyThe next page community foundationPeople may question if your idea is feasible but donrsquot give up Stick to your values and be patient Wersquove been working in Govandi one of the most underresourced community in Mumbai since 2020 promoting community youth development via reading art and sport Till date wersquove circulated nearly 50000 books provide free football training to over 350 players among many other milestones Positive change takes time and commitmentAnoop Parik founder The Next Page Community Foundation GovandiLog on to nextpagecentreBe practicalVolunteers plant fruit trees in Aarey Forest Pic Courtesy waghobafoundationMany NGOs start out with funds and then go looking for problems to solve to develop a portfolio of work gradually becoming performative The best approach is to have a clear vision and open an organisation only with adequate funds Before being able to do that ensure your body of work gets recognition and support from the common man which is extremely crucialSanjiv Valsan founder Waghoba Habitat Foundation Aarey Forest GoregaonLog on to waghobaorgMission over emotionPic Courtesy pasujeevaYour mission must survive your emotions In the context of animal welfare it is easy to get distressed and furious upon witnessing cruelty Itrsquos unsustainable to begin only because you find yourself emotionally attached to a cause eventually your motivation may collapse or you may not find outlets for your work without a structure to fall back on Be prepared to face bleak days but donrsquot lose sight of the larger goalSuchismita Ghosh founder PasujeevaThe Soulful Love Foundation AndheriLog on to pasujeeva_for_animal_care