Sponsor a child living in poverty in India.

Rizwan, a 15-year-old student in the 6th grade at the Hellen Keller Institute for Deaf and Deafblind, is a beneficiary of our disability inclusion project, Enabling Change. Rizwan has been associated with the OSCAR program for five years and is a sponsored child under the ASHA Project, which stands for 'HOPE.'

Facing speech and hearing impairment with a 75% hearing loss, Rizwan underwent a transformative journey after his sponsor facilitated an audiograph in 2021, providing him with a hearing aid. This aid proved instrumental in his speech development, and over the next two years, we witnessed significant positive changes. Rizwan began communicating with teachers and family members, a notable transformation from his initially reserved demeanor.

His teacher recalls that integrating Rizwan into the school community took two years, but the 2020 lockdown posed new challenges, hindering conversations and interactions. However, in 2021, Rizwan received a hearing aid through the ASHA project, marking a turning point. Post-lockdown and school resumption, his progress in speech development was remarkable. He learned to communicate while playing and, with the support of his teachers and determination to succeed, he overcame challenges.

Academically, Rizwan displayed remarkable improvement. His grasping power increased, and he now comprehends the taught concepts. His parents are delighted with the significant positive shift in Rizwan's demeanor and capabilities. From a reserved individual, he has transformed into an active participant in various activities. Rizwan's ability to hear, speak, and communicate through sign language has empowered him to assist teachers in explaining concepts to his peers. His willingness to aid other children in their academics through sign language is a testament to his progress and the success of the inclusive initiatives.

Behind this success story is a crucial element – Rizwan's sponsor. Without their unwavering support, this incredible journey of transformation wouldn't have been possible. Kudos to Rizwan's sponsor for being the driving force behind this amazing positive change!