Thank you for taking the time to visit my JustGiving fundraising page.
I am going on a trek to Mount Kilimanjaro on Nov 27th, 2009. Mount Kilimanjaro at 5894 meters is the tallest mountain in Africa and world's highest free-standing mountain. It is often referred to as the "Roof of Africa". It will take about 7 days to complete the ascent with a 7-8 hour trek every day and 12 hours on the day of the final ascent to the summit.
Through this trek, I am reaching out to all my friends, family and colleagues to raise awareness and as much donation to support Isha Vidhya (http://www.ishavidhya.org/get-involved/watch-video.html), a part of Isha Foundation- a non profit institution which has its deep roots in fundamentals around human well being and happiness.
India's literacy rate is at 65%, one of the lowest in the world. 72% of India's population or 840 MM people in India live in villages where literacy rates are sometimes less than 10%. These children spend their entire life trying to make ends meet more than often getting exposed to extreme elements of violence, crime and destitution. Their lack of education does not allow them to tap into basic opportunities that can change the lives of not only their families but their coming generations.
Isha Vidhya was founded as a means for transforming the lives of rural children by providing affordable, high-quality education where it is otherwise unavailable. Over the coming years, Isha Vidhya will set up 206 schools in villages across India. The schools are designed to build confident, english speaking, computer-adept youth, on par with students from good urban schools. Students will graduate prepared to pursue higher education and employment in the best colleges and develop to become socially engaged responsible citizens. Education is the only tool we have to change these children and help them grow as self reliant individual's with character, confidence and dignity.
Every little that you contribute counts. It takes about Rs 7000 or USD 140 annually to educate a child including tuition, study materials, books and a daily nutritional health supplement.
Donating through JustGiving is simple, quick and totally secure. Its also the fastest way to sponsor the cause. Once you donate, your money is sent directly to Isha Vidhya. In case you are a UK tax payer Justgiving makes sure 25% in Gift aid plus 3% in supplement are added to your donation making it an even bigger amount.
Please note that all your donations go directly to Isha Vidhya and do not fund my travel and expedition expenses which is borne by myself.
I am sure with your help, we all can make a difference. Thank you and look forward to your support.
alok
