Our 20-Year Journey of Transforming Lives & Building Futures
13 September, 20242004: The Beginning of Ra Foundation
Ra Foundation's first chapter began in 2004 with a primary focus on healthcare. We conducted health awareness sessions for women’s self-help groups, helping them save for medical purposes. These initial efforts aimed to support vulnerable families through healthcare education and access, laying the foundation for our future initiatives.
2006: The Creation of the Happy Kids Program
In 2006, Ra Foundation’s journey took a pivotal turn when we were approached by Michele- a French national who runs a nonprofit- Indian Smiles who first saw Rekha- A young girl who was living on the pavement of CST station with her blind parents. Rekha’s transformation after being enrolled in a residential school was a testament to how with the right environment and human care, every child has the ability to achieve their potential. This experience sparked the creation of the Happy Kids Program, which focused on providing children with a nurturing environment and quality education.
2007: Expanding Reach through Akanksha Foundation
After supporting Rekha and her family, we were approached to help two other children from Akanksha Foundation. These children had tragically lost their mother in an episode of domestic violence, and their father was imprisoned. Ra Foundation enrolled these two siblings in a residential school in Panchgani, marking the start of expanding our outreach to more children in need.
2008-2013: Building Partnerships & Expanding Our Impact
As the Happy Kids Program gained momentum, Ra Foundation partnered with organizations like Akanksha Foundation and Teach For India to identify and enroll more children in residential schools. By 2009, we were collaborating with three partner schools and had established connections with hospitals like K.J. Somaiya and KEM for healthcare support. With corporate support from Kalpataru Trust and Cipla Foundation, we were able to expand further. By 2012, we were supporting 15 children across four schools.
2014-2018: Youth Development and Holistic Support
In 2014, recognizing the growing number of children transitioning to college, Ra Foundation launched youth sessions to provide life skills, mental health support, and mentorship. Partnerships with organizations like SAAHAS and Ummeed Child Development Centre enabled us to offer remedial classes and emotional care. By 2016, we had formalized mentorship programs and introduced health insurance for all children in the program. By 2018, the Happy Kids Program was supporting 48 children across seven schools with the backing of Mastek Foundation.
2020-2021: Resilience in the Face of a Global Pandemic
The COVID-19 pandemic posed unprecedented challenges. However, Ra Foundation adapted quickly by providing mobile data connections for online schooling, counseling services, and internships to help college students gain work experience. Despite the difficulties, we continued to provide the children with holistic support. By 2021, Ra Foundation set a five-year vision to support 100 children, focusing on holistic development, encompassing academics, arts, sports, and career guidance.
2023: Framing Our Theory of Change, Our New Advisory Board & Reorganizing the Happy kids Program
In 2023, Ra Foundation framed its Theory of Change, outlining a vision of long-term impact through three key pathways: Education and Career, Healthy Social Fabric, and Sustainable Life Choices. The foundation also bifurcated its programs into two distinct initiatives:
- School Program – Focused on addressing academic gaps and building socio-emotional resilience during the transition from childhood to adolescence.
- Youth Program – Offering career guidance, internships, and mentorship for college students, helping them transition into independent adulthood.
Additionally, an Advisory Board was established, bringing together leaders from various fields, including Sunil Nayak, Manesh Patel, Luis Miranda, Mira Kapoor, Arjun Mehra, Kalpana Nayak, and Avinash Kothari, to provide strategic direction and growth.
2024: Expanding Horizons and Strengthening Support
As Ra Foundation celebrates its 20th anniversary in 2024, the focus is on both reflection and expansion. This year, we aim to support 100 children by 2025, expanding partnerships and strengthening our programs. The launch of the Alumni Support Program will help graduates transition into careers and independent adulthood, providing continued mentorship and guidance. Celebrating two decades of impact, Ra Foundation remains committed to empowering vulnerable children and families through education, mentorship, and holistic support.
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As we celebrate two decades of transforming lives, Ra Foundation looks toward the future with hope, determination, and a deep belief in the potential of every child we serve. The journey that began with a single girl at CST station has now impacted the lives of hundreds of children and their families. With a strong foundation, dedicated partners, and a visionary advisory board, Ra Foundation is poised to continue its mission of empowering vulnerable children, ensuring they have the tools and support they need to break the cycle of poverty and achieve their full potential.