The Senior Bala Vihar class of Jayam Zone is learning the importance of dhānam or charity.To demonstrate that charity is not only the donation of money but the donation of one’s time, it was decided that a dhānam activity would be undertaken at Mann- a Center for Individuals with Special Needs.
After discussing their requirements, various items from food ( Annadhānam) to clothes ( Vastradhānam), Stationery and other items ( Vidyadhānam) were bought collectively by the Bala Vihar family and the Jayam Committee members. These were handed over to Mann at an event held at their Centre.
The Programme Coordinator of Mann briefly explained Mann. Mann is dedicated to fostering independence and employability among individuals with special needs like Autism, Down syndrome, and Intellectual Disability through Skill training, Vocational support, Physical well-being support and Social skills Some of the skills training sessions given were demonstrated. Mann also helps them find jobs in housekeeping in hotels, malls and offices, multiplexes etc.
Team Games were played by the Mann students and Bala Vihar children to sensitize the children to their needs. The Chinmaya Family Day “Vasudaiva Kutumbakam” song was performed. The Bala Vihar children had made Friendship bands with Gurudev’s motto “ Keep Smiling” and these were given to the persons in Mann as a gesture of friendship.
The Mann Coordinators arranged a sale of products made through their Karmann initiative which received an enthusiastic response. The Programme concluded with the cutting of a cake baked by a member of the Bala Vihar family & distribution of snacks. It was an enriching experience and a humble offering on behalf of Jayam Zone for Pujya Gurudev’s Jayanthi which celebrated as Seva Day.
