Reachout Reconnect

Learning from the differently abled

- Deepa Bhat

After two and a half lockdowns, life is getting back on track. This has been a tough period for all especially for the challenged community, which has had scant opportunity for social interactions. On 11th April 2022, Reachout celebrated its 26th anniversary with a yoga camp that brought together 142 participants and 60 volunteers in a bid to experience inclusion and togetherness. The motive is to create integration, interaction opportunities, awareness, education and empowerment.

Volunteer teacher trainees assisted and played buddy to our special needs group. An orientation held a week earlier helped them tune into the requirements and gear up for the event.

The day started with lighting of a Diya and prayers followed by our vivacious Abhay Sir taking over. Simultaneously, separate sessions were held for the parent group in another hall by senior teachers like Jeenal Mehta, Vijaya Magar and Asha Borkar. The aim was to provide respite, support and empowering inputs for the parents to help them cope with their stressful lives.

We welcomed Smt. Hansaji in our midst and had a power-packed performance by the Aawahan Palak Sangh group. The Ganesha dance left everyone spellbound with the spectacular display of talent. Sumishaji took a dance movement session, which was great fun for all.

After a Sattvic lunch and a promenade around the beautiful grounds of the Institute, the participants and volunteers settled in for a craft session by the bunch.