According to the 2023 Annual Status of Education Report (ASER) survey, children's fundamental reading and arithmetic abilities have regressed to levels akin to those before 2012, reversing the gradual progress seen in recent years. In 2018, merely a quarter of the nation's 14-18-year-olds could fluently read their own language, with 57% struggling with basic division, and 44% unable to accurately add weights in kilograms. Moreover, 21% were unable to identify their state, and 14% couldn't locate India on a map. The challenges have worsened amidst the pandemic years.
It is evident that these communities are vulnerable, and the lack of a community’s investment in the child’s holistic development (mental, physical, intellectual and spiritual) could only intensify these societal challenges. Children residing in shelter homes/orphanages or from low-income communities are deprived of better employment opportunities and civic engagement due to the devoid in quality education and a dearth of role models to guide and mentor the underprivileged children towards a better future.
Furthermore, volunteers who work to bridge these gaps often face challenges such as placement of work is opposite to the place they were vowed to work for; finding the right caused connected to their passion/interest area; volunteering feasibility; aligned to the organization’s vision and values; adequate training and gaining experiences from the organization they opted to volunteer.
The educational programmes have been focusing on improving learning outcomes to bring them up to class-appropriate levels. However, given that the gap in learning outcome is large, Bhumi realised the compelling need to improve the education system and its processes further.
With an aim to render quality education, Bhumi provides comprehensive educational support for over 86,000 underprivileged children across India to help them break the cycle of poverty. Bhumi bridges the gaps in formal education and opportunities by providing language and STEAM education, life-skills support and scholarships for higher education:
• Through volunteers at orphanages during weekends
• Low-income (private and government) schools with development support for teachers
• Education at after-school community centres in urban slums
Being one of India’s largest independent youth organization, over 80% of its volunteers work with Bhumi for at least two consecutive years. Bhumi provides a platform that identifies potential leaders, nurtures leadership to make volunteering a national habit creating a ripple effect by impacting lives of other volunteers, in turn, contributing to the impact of more beneficiaries. Some of these volunteers have switched to the education sector from engineering/arts/medicine background as full-time employees of the organization because of their experiences with Bhumi.
Bhumi’s key achievements snapshot in 23-24 so far:
• No. of volunteers engaged – 1.6 Lacs
• No. of children benefited- 86387
• Presence in 268 schools, 155 Colleges, 154 shelter homes and 21 Communities across 15+ cities
Help us raise funds for our specific needs.
Utilization summary of funds raised last year in TCS World 10K Bengaluru 2023
| Amount Utilised (INR) | 680808 |
|---|---|
| Project Description | At Bring Smiles, we are on a mission to empower deserving students from financially constrained families and transform their lives through the power of education. Through our comprehensive scholarship programs, we provide educational access and alleviate the financial burden on students and their families. We believe in holistic development and offer personalised mentorship and guidance to help students navigate challenges, set goals, and develop life skills. By fostering partnerships and creating opportunities with educational institutions and industry professionals, we broaden horizons and provide real-world experiences. Our supportive community, comprising students, mentors, volunteers, and supporters, creates a support, encouragement, and inspiration network. Together, we are dedicated to making a lasting impact and creating a brighter future for every student. Financial aid for equal access to education Focus on holistic development Access to opportunities that expand horizons Building a supportive ecosystem |
| impact | Provided Scholarships for 29 students from marginalised communities to continue their education in 2023-24 |
Bhumi is one of India’s largest volunteer organizations. Established in 2006, Bhumi’s core belief in quality education fueled its
mission, empowering marginalised children and youth in urban slums, low income families and shelter homes.
Bhumi addresses educational disparities with sustainable programs in education, school infrastructure, environment, and youth
development. Bhumi is currently providing comprehensive educational support for over 86000 underprivileged children across India.
We are working towards a more equal and educated India through our volunteers.
Our Programs-
Ignite: Educational support for children in shelter homes, communities, and schools across India. Trained volunteers and Fellows deliver this program toward sustainable livelihoods.
Catalyse: Civic initiatives that aim to make volunteering a habit and get every Indian volunteering. It involves volunteering for causes like the environment, animal welfare, community welfare, and more.
Giving is about better outcomes and bigger opportunities. Give with Bhumi to empower lives and transform communities.
More information about Bhumi is available at www.bhumi.ngo
Contact Person: Ramya Jayalakshmi Iyer
Email: ramya.iyer@bhumi.ngo
Phone: 7225889868
A big thank you to all those who have donated on this page.
