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And now for our series of Shining World Leadership segment on an Indian organization that works
with more than 60 schools to help improve the health and hygiene of residents of the
area. The Series of Shining World Leadership Intro [VOICEOVER]: For decades, Supreme Master
Ching Hai has exemplified unconditional love through her worldwide humanitarian work. She
has inspired our Association members and countless people across the globe, to follow her compassionate
example. Through enlightened leadership a better world is truly possible. In recent
times, a new and exciting phenomenon is on the rise that is bringing much hope and light
to our planet Earth. More and more leaders and governments around the world are adopting
practices that greatly improve and enhance the lives of their citizens, human and animal
alike. Indian non-governmental organization Prayasam
is dedicated to helping empower children to become agents for positive change. Founded
in 1996 by lawyer Mr. Amlan Kusum Ganguly, the non-profit is active in a number of underserved
areas of West Bengal. Programs in nutrition, preventative health, and training in first
aid and media are offered. The participating youngsters are invited to become “area health
minders,” and disseminate information on maintaining wellbeing, hygiene and sanitation
within their locality. The youngsters are encouraged to express themselves through art,
dance, puppetry, street theater, and their own newspaper. Over 60 schools are involved
in the project, reaching 5,000 students and their families. The young advocates also contact
local governments to explain their needs and explore steps that can be taken to meet them.
Results can be seen in improvements including the reduction of prevalent diseases such as
malaria by half and the changing of refuse places into playing fields. The creation of
a school, activity and literary centers, and workshops for primary school teachers are
among Prayasam’s other endeavors. In 2003, Prayasam was chosen, as the only representative
from India, to be featured in “A Life like Mine,” a United Nations Children’s Fund
publication. In 2009, a documentary on Mr. Ganguly and his work was selected by the American-based
Sundance Institute and Skoll Foundation to highlight the effectiveness of social entrepreneurship.
Bravo, Mr. Amlan Kusum Ganguly and Prayasam, for your innovative and laudable programs.
May all cherished children of God be given an abundance of love and opportunities to
thrive in joy and health on a sustainable planet. http://prayasam.org/lifeline.ht�