My request:

Books are lighthouses erected in the great sea of time.

           Today, there are more than 770 million illiterate people in the world, over 300 million children who are not enrolled in school, and hundreds of millions more lack access to books and libraries. Ninety-eight percent of these children live in developing countries, where extreme poverty prevents them from gaining an education. As members of a global community, we must recognize that illiteracy is a major hurdle in improving the quality of life around the globe.

           I have always wanted to do at least a little in helping make education accessible to those who cannot afford it. "Isha Vidhya" has been committed to this goal. Help me raise funds for this initiative. Donate to this cause using the 'Donate' link on this page.

Cause: Library Books

Over 75% of the children are on full tuition scholarships, and nearly all of them are first generation learners in their family. These students have no access to books or any printed materials outside of school. A school library will open up a new world of discovery and learning as they can explore their own interests and passions, and it will also make education more fun and meaningful. The schools have a room set aside for library, and furniture has been donated. We are looking for support for purchasing books, Rs. 3-4 lacs will allow us to fully stock the library. The school hopes to initially stock 3000 - 4000 books, and then annually update the library. Each book costs an estimated Rs. 100.

No donation is too small (or too big!) to participate. Many thanks for your support - and don't forget to forward this to anyone who you think might want to donate too!