Transforming Youth in India with Computer Training

Finding a job can be challenging for anyone, but for those with disabilites in India, it can be almost impossible. Social stigmas can create obstacles for them that can result in emotional turmoil along with their physical problems.

This was the case wit Aruna. Because of a bout with polio, Aruna uses crutches and calipers. She wanted computer training to increase her chances of getting a job, but was very sad when she entered the hostel and had to leave the comfort of her own home.

However, as she began to take classes, she excelled! She was in the top of her class and received second place in a local typing competition. Along with that, she made good use of physiotherapy sessions at the hostel where her walking improved as well.

Upon graduation from the program, this is what Aruna had to say:

"This program gave me two things: a good education and confidence. Thank you for giving these to me!"

Education and care makes a huge difference in the lives of those with disabilities in India. Your gifts are providing life-changing opportunities - thank you!

Dear Friend,

People with disabilities are often seen as cursed in India. Such was the case of Sangeetha, who contracted polio as an infant and was abandoned by her family. She finds it hard to trust people after being shunned by her family members and left in an orphanage.

She attended school and started trying to become independent. She went from hostel to hostel and job to job, but had bad experiences with both. She decided only a government job would give her the job security she needs, and the computer training program offers just the certification course she needs! 

Now Sangeetha lives in the hostel and is pursuing her government certification. This would not be possible without your support! Loving community and solid education are setting Sangeetha and others like her up for success.

Thanks again for your support!

Sincerely,

John Sparks

President, India Partners

Ashwin is both Autistic and has ADHD syndrome, leaving him with limited social skills and short attention span. An already fidgety and hyperactive young man, Aswin's behavior was even more impacted when his father passed away. His mother had heard of our computer training center and came asking if there is something we can do. With her need to go to work in order to support the family, she was finding it difficult to manage him at home. Your gift has enabled us to keep Aswin occupied with various activities for about 3 hours a day, providing huge relief to his mother.

More than computer skills, Aswin has been able to learn social skills in his interactions with the other youth in the center. The first few months were a challenge with his tantrums and refusal to go along with the class. But slowly he learned his limits and started concentrating on his computer typing.

Because of the time you have provided Aswin with at the training center, his mother reports that his behavior has improved tremendously. She also feels Aswin has become more independent and has learned to greet and accept people.

Thank you for providing opportunities for life-changing training at our computer center!

Dear Friend,

Thank you for helping students with disabilities receive valuable computer training. You are giving them a chance to succeed and find a good job.

In India, people with disabilities are ostracized and neglected. But today you are giving people like Sangeetha hope for a brighter future.

Sangeetha contracted polio when she was an infant and was forsaken by her family. Her only known relative is her uncle who took the responsibility to put her in an orphanage. Since both her legs have been affected, she has to use a wheelchair.

Sangeetha received a good education and has a Masters in Commerce. Now she is in the process of becoming fully sustainable and has been looking for a job. Sadly, she had nowhere to stay after she graduated and she had difficulties finding a job because of her disability. Her uncle didn't want her home.

After searching for a steady job and a good hostel, she decided to join our computer training program. When she heard about the government certification courses that we offered, she was determined to complete the certification classes in computer training. And after enrolling in our program, she is so happy to have found a good education and new place to live.

Thank you for your support!

Sincerely,

John Sparks

Dear Friend,

Thank you for providing opportunities to those with disabilities in India. 

Krishnamurthy is a young man from a rural village. His family is poor, so he had been working on a farm in order to augment their income. One day, while working with a piece of farm machinery, he had an accident that crushed his fingers. Due to insufficient first aid, Krishnamurthy eventually had to have his arm amputated just below his elbow. 

When he found out about the computer training for those with disabilities, he didn't think he could study typing with just one hand. But the staff encouraged and convinced him to try. Now he is learning computer skills and will one day be able to get a well-paying job!

Accidents like the one Krishnamurthy had can be overwhelming for a person, and make them lose hope. But because of you, resources exist to help a person overcome those accidents and disabilities and live wonderful lives. Thank you!

Sincerely,

John Sparks

President, India Partners