Volunteer to Make a Difference for Children

The Akshaya Patra Foundation
Volunteer to Make a
Difference for Children
w w w . a k s h a y a p a t r a . o r g

Volunteerism - the act or practice of doing volunteer work in community service.
Among the many inspiration quotes that we come across, the one that resonates is ‘Change
begins with you.’ International Volunteer Day highlights the importance of social service and
how everybody can make a difference. Given the scenario in India where issues are severe but
the resources in NGOs are less, how would you like to contribute? Is it possible to make this
world better by volunteering? Will volunteering actually have an impact? Let us find out!
The word Volunteer was first used during early 17th Century when soldiers were called to
participate in military activities. However, over the years, this word has got itself a new depth –
to contribute time and skills to social services. In India alone, thousands of volunteers play a
role through NGOs by teaching, rehabilitating destitute women and children, providing free
medical facilities, and so on. An NGO’s role is such that you identify an issue, create a
sustainable plan and begin solving the issue.
At Akshaya Patra, an NGO in India, identified hunger to be an issue that affected children’s
engagement in school. For instance, certain situations demanded a child to choose between
hunger and education; the latter was never given enough priority. Thanks to the schemes
introduced by government and efforts made by Akshaya Patra, children are encouraged to
attend school and continue their education.
The Akshaya Patra Foundation © 2016

Akshaya Patra works in partnership with government to provide healthy mid-day meals to
school children. The meals are freshly cooked and delivered to schools during lunch time.
Currently, over 1.7 million children from government schools and government-aided schools
are benefitting from this programme. While the programme continues its operations in 11
states across India, many volunteers have pitched in their time and energy towards Food for
Education initiative and they definitely deserve global applause!
Akshaya Patra offers various volunteering opportunities in three areas:
(i) Kitchens
Akshaya Patra operates 26 mega kitchens across 11 states in India which have the capacity to
cook up to 100,000 meals. These kitchens are automated and ensure hygiene during the
cooking process. As a volunteer, you can get involved in prepping – peeling coconuts, sorting
grains, unloading of food, and so on.
(ii) Schools
We currently reach out to 13,529 schools and here, you will get the opportunity to serve midday
meals, interact with children and organise activities for them. If you are willing to propose a
programme that will benefit the school, please feel free to get in touch with us.
The Akshaya Patra Foundation © 2016

(iii) Non-field work
We have offices set up in all our locations and the opportunities are posted on our website.
These non-field volunteering posts will help you develop your skills in a particular area. Get
involve with the opportunities provided by the Akshaya Patra to support as volunteer.
Today, make a decision to offer your support to a cause. By volunteering, you will help society
and yourself by lifting up your spirit. If time does not allow you to take up volunteering services,
why not donate for a cause? You can sponsor a child’s mid-day meals for a year by contributing
Rs 950 only!
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The Akshaya Patra Foundation © 2016