Dear beloved Family & Friends,
Warm Greetings! Namaskaram! Vanakkam!
Over the past 14 years, my journey as a marathon runner has not only been a personal passion but also a vehicle for social impact & giving back to the community. I've witnessed the transformative power that running possesses, inspiring me to contribute meaningfully to the lives of marginalized communities. My active participation in diverse running events, particularly the prestigious TCS World 10K Bengaluru, has allowed me to wear the dual hats of a dedicated runner and a committed fundraiser, all in support of the "Odisha Rising Foundation."
Our shared mission is to make a substantial contribution to the foundation's commendable initiative, the Mo-Vaasa project. This project is dedicated to providing high-quality education to tribal children attending Government Schools, with a primary emphasis on Mother Tongue Based Learning Education.
The "Odisha Rising Foundation" (ORF) tirelessly dedicates its efforts to championing the cause of quality education for the often-overlooked children in the tribal heartlands of Odisha. Operating in the most neglected tribal districts, ORF stands as a beacon of hope, working towards transforming the educational landscape for these deserving young minds.
In the face of formidable challenges confronting these communities, ORF assumes a central role, not merely as an educational facilitator but as a dynamic force actively shaping policies. This strategic engagement extends beyond the immediate educational sphere, resonating with broader communities and serving as a catalyst for collective action. ORF's commitment goes beyond the classroom, aiming to cultivate a holistic approach that uplifts the entire community through the power of education.
Through its unwavering dedication, ORF is not just providing an education; it is crafting a narrative of empowerment, resilience, and progress for the tribal children of Odisha. In this noble endeavor, ORF stands as a testament to the transformative impact that education can have on the lives of the most vulnerable, paving the way for a brighter and more equitable future.
The forthcoming 10K running event presents a golden opportunity for us to lay a strong foundation for the impactful initiatives spearheaded by the "Odisha Rising Foundation" (ORF). Your generous contributions will form the financial bedrock for ORF, empowering them to embark on a transformative mission in the Tribal district of Koraput in Odisha.
The foundation's ambitious plan involves intervention in 50 schools within the tribal district, marking a strategic move to address educational disparities. This initiative focuses on imparting high-quality education and emphasizes the profound significance of Mother Tongue Based Learning Education. ORF recognizes the pivotal role that linguistic and cultural familiarity play in the learning process, thereby intending to create a holistic educational experience for both students and teachers alike.
In this intervention, ORF aims to touch the lives of diverse segments within the educational ecosystem. Students will benefit from an enriched learning environment that aligns with their linguistic and cultural roots, fostering a sense of identity and pride in their heritage. Simultaneously, teachers will be equipped with the tools and knowledge to implement effective Mother Tongue Based Learning strategies, enhancing their ability to cater to the unique needs of their students.
Your contribution to this cause goes beyond monetary support; it becomes a catalyst for positive change and empowerment. Together, we can be architects of a brighter future, where education becomes a transformative force, breaking barriers and paving the way for a more inclusive and culturally sensitive learning environment.
Allow me to share some compelling data that underscores the urgency and impact of our collective efforts in the realm of education:
Cursory glance at the educational status of the tribal children of Odisha reveals that the absolute majority of them are non-enrolled, a large number are out of school and the dropout rate is high. The literacy rate of the Odisha tribal population is 45.4 % (female 44.6% and male 55.5%). The result of dropout has drastically fallen over the past decade.
Mother Tongue Based Learning Education has been proven to enhance learning outcomes and our emphasis on this approach aims to bridge educational gaps among tribal children.
The Mo-Vaasa project seeks to address the challenges in Government Schools, striving to ensure that every child receives an education that empowers and uplifts. Your support will play a vital role in addressing these educational challenges and positively impacting the lives of tribal children.
I convey my deep gratitude and warm regards to you.
Yours truly,
Patrick Pitchappa
I am an IT professional. I've been running the TCS 10K (formerly Sunfeast 10K ) since 2010. I'm a practicing Christian and follow the principalities of Jesus Christ who taught us to take care of the poor & needy around. This will earn us treasures in heaven. Hence, I've devoted myself to charity and CSR. It also helps in achieving the UN's SDG. I am participating in this Marathon not only to run but to raise a considerable amount of funds so that I may support the cause of "Odisha Rising Foundation" - a grassroon organisation is working in Odisha the most underdeveloped state of India to create impact locally by using technology as an enabler in the field of education, health and skilling so that the last mile communities are empowered and mainstreamed.
A big thank you to all those who have donated on this page.
